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DeLong SM, Kafu C, Wachira J, Knight JM, Braitstein P, Operario D, Genberg BL. Understanding motivations and resilience-associated factors to promote timely linkage to HIV care: a qualitative study among people living with HIV in western Kenya. AIDS Care 2024; 36:546-552. [PMID: 37499119 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2240066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Understanding motivations and resilience-associated factors that help people newly diagnosed with HIV link to care is critical in the context of universal test and treat. We analyzed 30 in-depth interviews (IDI) among adults aged 18 and older in western Kenya diagnosed with HIV during home-based counseling and testing and who had linked to HIV care. A directed content analysis was performed, categorizing IDI quotations into a table based on linkage stages for organization and then developing and applying codes from self-determination theory and the concept of resilience. Autonomous motivations, including internalized concerns for one's health and/or to provide care for family, were salient facilitators of accessing care. Controlled forms of motivation, such as fear or external pressure, were less salient. Social support was an important resilience-associated factor fostering linkage. HIV testing and counseling programs which incorporate motivational interviewing that emphasizes motivations related to one's health or family combined with a social support/navigator approach, may promote timely linkage to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M DeLong
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Catherine Kafu
- Behavioral Science Department, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Partnership, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Juddy Wachira
- Behavioral Science Department, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Mental Health Department, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jennifer M Knight
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Partnership, Eldoret, Kenya
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Becky L Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Hill SE, Zhang C, Remera E, Ingabire C, Umwiza F, Munyaneza A, Muhoza B, Rwibasira G, Yotebieng M, Anastos K, Murenzi G, Ross J. Association Between Clinical Encounter Frequency and HIV-Related Stigma Among Newly-Diagnosed People Living with HIV in Rwanda. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1390-1400. [PMID: 38112826 PMCID: PMC10947825 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04226-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma in healthcare settings remains a key barrier to engaging people living with HIV (PLHIV) in care. This study investigated the association between clinical encounter frequency and HIV-related anticipated, enacted, and internalized stigma among newly-diagnosed PLHIV in Rwanda. From October 2020 to May 2022, we collected data from adult PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Kigali, Rwanda who were participating in a randomized, controlled trial testing early entry into differentiated care at 6 months after ART initiation. We measured anticipated HIV stigma with five-point Likert HIV Stigma Framework measures, enacted stigma with the four-point Likert HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument, and internalized stigma with the four-point Likert HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument. We used multivariable linear regression to test the associations between clinical encounter frequency (average inter-visit interval ≥ 50 days vs. < 50 days) and change in mean anticipated, enacted and internalized HIV stigma over the first 12 months in care. Among 93 individuals enrolled, 76 had complete data on encounter frequency and stigma measurements and were included in the present analysis. Mean internalized stigma scores of all participants decreased over the first 12 months in care. Anticipated and enacted stigma scores were low and did not change significantly over time. There was no association between encounter frequency and change in internalized stigma. In this pilot study of newly-diagnosed Rwandan PLHIV with relatively low levels of HIV-related stigma, clinical encounter frequency was not associated with change in stigma. Additional research in diverse settings and with larger samples is necessary to further explore this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Hill
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Chenshu Zhang
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Eric Remera
- HIV/AIDS and STIs Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Institute of HIV Disease Prevention and Control, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Charles Ingabire
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Francine Umwiza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Athanase Munyaneza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Benjamin Muhoza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gallican Rwibasira
- HIV/AIDS and STIs Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Institute of HIV Disease Prevention and Control, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Gad Murenzi
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
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Abdella S, Demissie M, Worku A, Dheresa M, Berhane Y. HIV treatment cascade among female sex workers in Ethiopia: Assessment against the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294991. [PMID: 38091300 PMCID: PMC10718439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV treatment cascades for HIV-positive female sex workers (FSWs) have been challenged by the overlapping stigma and discrimination associated with both their sex work and HIV status. This study aims to assess the proportion of HIV-positive FSWs who access care and treatment in Ethiopia. METHOD A cross-sectional study with a respondent-driven sampling technique was used to enroll 6,085 female sex workers from January to June 2020. Interviews were conducted to assess the FSWs' HIV status awareness and access to ART. A blood sample was drawn to determine the current HIV status and viral load level. Logistic regression was run to identify factors associated with FSWs' HIV status awareness. RESULTS Of the total 1140 HIV-positive FSWs, 50.38% knew they were HIV positive; 92.88% of those who knew their status were on ART, and 91.68% of those on ART had attained viral suppression of less than 1000 copies per milliliter. The adjusted odds of knowing HIV status was 3.20 (95% CI; 2.00, 5.13) among those aged 35 years and older, 1.81 (95% CI; 1.05, 3.12) among widowed, and 1.73 (95% CI; 1.28, 2.32) in those who did not perceive the risk of HIV acquisition. CONCLUSION Only about half of HIV-positive FSWs knew they were HIV positive. More than 90% of those who knew their status were put on ART and achieved viral suppression. The weakest point in achieving HIV control among FSWs is the identification of those living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saro Abdella
- HIV and TB Research Directorate, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Meaza Demissie
- Department of Global Health and Health Policy, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Merga Dheresa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Rosen JG, Nakyanjo N, Ddaaki WG, Zhao T, Van Vo A, Nakubulwa R, Ssekyewa C, Isabirye D, Katono RL, Nabakka P, Ssemwanga RJ, Kigozi G, Odiya S, Nakigozi G, Nalugoda F, Kigozi G, Kagaayi J, Grabowski MK, Kennedy CE. Identifying longitudinal patterns of HIV treatment (dis)engagement and re-engagement from oral histories of virologically unsuppressed persons in Uganda: A thematic trajectory analysis. Soc Sci Med 2023; 339:116386. [PMID: 37984182 PMCID: PMC10841599 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116386] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited study of persons deemed "harder to reach" by HIV treatment services, including those discontinuing or never initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). We conducted narrative research in southern Uganda with virologically unsuppressed persons identified through population-based sampling to discern longitudinal patterns in HIV service engagement and identify factors shaping treatment persistence. METHODS In mid-2022, we sampled adult participants with high-level HIV viremia (≥1000 RNA copies/mL) from the prospective, population-based Rakai Community Cohort Study. Using life history calendars, we conducted initial and follow-up in-depth interviews to elicit oral histories of participants' journeys in HIV care, from diagnosis to the present. We then used thematic trajectory analysis to identify discrete archetypes of HIV treatment engagement by "re-storying" participant narratives and visualizing HIV treatment timelines derived from interviews and abstracted clinical data. RESULTS Thirty-eight participants (median age: 34 years, 68% men) completed 75 interviews. We identified six HIV care engagement archetypes from narrative timelines: (1) delayed ART initiation, (2) early treatment discontinuation, (3) treatment cycling, (4) prolonged treatment interruption, (5) transfer-related care disruption, and (6) episodic viremia. Patterns of service (dis)engagement were highly gendered, occurred in the presence and absence of optimal ART adherence, and were shaped by various factors emerging at different time points, including: denial of HIV serostatus and disclosure concerns; worsening HIV-related symptoms; psychological distress and depression; social support; intimate partner violence; ART side effects; accessibility constraints during periods of mobility; incarceration; and inflexible ART dispensing regulations. CONCLUSIONS Identified trajectories uncovered heterogeneities in both the timing and drivers of ART (re-)initiation and (dis)continuity, demonstrating the distinct characteristics and needs of people with different patterns of HIV treatment engagement throughout the life course. Enhanced mental health service provision, expanded eligibility for differentiated service delivery models, and streamlined facility switching processes may facilitate timely (re-)engagement in HIV services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph G Rosen
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | | | - Tongying Zhao
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anh Van Vo
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Silas Odiya
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - M Kate Grabowski
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda; Division of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
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Ayieko J, Thorp M, Getahun M, Gandhi M, Maeri I, Gutin SA, Okiring J, Kamya MR, Bukusi EA, Charlebois ED, Petersen M, Havlir DV, Camlin CS, Murnane PM. Geographic Mobility and HIV Care Engagement among People Living with HIV in Rural Kenya and Uganda. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:496. [PMID: 37999615 PMCID: PMC10675546 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8110496] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human mobility is a critical aspect of existence and survival, but may compromise care engagement among people living with HIV (PLHIV). We examined the association between various forms of human mobility with retention in HIV care and antiretroviral treatment (ART) interruptions. METHODS In a cohort of adult PLHIV in Kenya and Uganda, we collected surveys in 2016 about past 6-month travel and lifetime migration histories, including reasons and locations, and engagement in HIV care defined as (1) discontinuation of care, and (2) history of a treatment interruption among those who remained in care. We estimated associations between mobility and these care engagement outcomes via logistic regression, adjusted for sex, prior mobility, age, region, marital status, household wealth, and education. RESULTS Among 1081 participants, 56 (5%) reported having discontinued care; among those in care, 104 (10%) reported treatment interruption. Past-year migration was associated with a higher risk of discontinuation of care (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.98, 95% CI 1.08-3.63). In sex-stratified models, the association was somewhat attenuated in women, but remained robust among men. Past-year migration was associated with reduced odds of having a treatment interruption among men (aOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.34-0.77) but not among women (aOR 2.67, 95% CI 0.78, 9.16). Travel in the past 6 months was not associated with discontinuation of care or treatment interruptions. CONCLUSIONS We observed both negative and protective effects of recent migration on care engagement and ART use that were most pronounced among men in this cohort. Migration can break ties to ongoing care, but for men, who have more agency in the decision to migrate, may foster new care and treatment strategies. Strategies that enable health facilities to support individuals throughout the process of transferring care could alleviate the risk of care disengagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Marguerite Thorp
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Monica Getahun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Sarah A. Gutin
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7072, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala P.O. Box 7072, Uganda
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi 00200, Kenya
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Maya Petersen
- Division of Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Pamela M. Murnane
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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Ingabire C, Watnick D, Gasana J, Umwiza F, Munyaneza A, Kubwimana G, Murenzi G, Anastos K, Adedimeji A, Ross J. Experiences of stigma and HIV care engagement in the context of Treat All in Rwanda: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1817. [PMID: 37726734 PMCID: PMC10507909 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16752-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] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Treat All' policies recommending immediate antiretroviral therapy (ART) soon after HIV diagnosis for all people living with HIV (PLHIV) are now ubiquitous in sub-Saharan Africa. While early ART initiation and retention is effective at curtailing disease progression and transmission, evidence suggests that stigma may act as a barrier to engagement in care. This study sought to understand the relationships between HIV stigma and engagement in care for PLHIV in Rwanda in the context of Treat All. METHODS Between September 2018 and March 2019, we conducted semi-structured, qualitative interviews with adult PLHIV receiving care at two health centers in Kigali, Rwanda. We used a grounded theory approach to data analysis to develop conceptual framework describing how stigma influences HIV care engagement in the context of early Treat All policy implementation in Rwanda. RESULTS Among 37 participants, 27 (73%) were women and the median age was 31 years. Participants described how care engagement under Treat All, including taking medications and attending appointments, increased their visibility as PLHIV. This served to normalize HIV and use of ART but also led to high levels of anticipated stigma in the health center and community at early stages of treatment. Enacted stigma from family and community members and resultant internalized stigma acted as additional barriers to care engagement. Nonetheless, participants described how psychosocial support from care providers and family members helped them cope with stigma and promoted continued engagement in care. CONCLUSIONS Treat All policy in Rwanda has heightened the visibility of HIV at the individual and social levels, which has influenced HIV stigma, normalization, psychosocial support and care engagement in complex ways. Leveraging the individual and community support described by PLHIV to deliver evidence-based, peer or provider-delivered stigma reduction interventions may aid in attaining Treat All goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ingabire
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Dana Watnick
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Josephine Gasana
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Francine Umwiza
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Athanase Munyaneza
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gallican Kubwimana
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gad Murenzi
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Einstein-Rwanda Research and Capacity Building Program, Research for Development (RD Rwanda), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Adebola Adedimeji
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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Kiyingi M, Nankabirwa JI, Wiltshire CS, Nangendo J, Kiweewa JM, Katahoire AR, Semitala FC. Perspectives of people living with HIV on barriers to timely ART initiation following referral for antiretroviral therapy: A qualitative study at an urban HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001483. [PMID: 37494338 PMCID: PMC10370709 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) after HIV diagnosis prevents HIV transmission, progression of HIV to AIDS and improves quality of life. However, little is known about the barriers to timely ART initiation among patients who test HIV positive in settings different from where they will receive HIV treatment, hence are referred in the routine setting. Therefore, we explored the perspectives of people living with HIV on barriers faced to initiate ART following HIV testing and referral for treatment. In this qualitative study, we purposively sampled and enrolled 17 patients attending the Mulago ISS clinic. We selected patients (≥18 years) who previously were received as referrals for HIV treatment and had delayed ART initiation, as ascertained from their records. We conducted in-depth interviews, which were audio recorded, transcribed and translated. We used Atlas.ti version 9 software for data management. Data analysis followed thematic and framework analysis techniques and we adopted the socio-ecological model to categorize final themes. Key themes were found at organizational level including; negative experiences at the place of HIV diagnosis attributed to inadequate counselling and support, unclear communication of HIV-positive results and ambiguous referral procedures; and, long waiting time when patients reached the HIV clinic. At individual level, the themes identified were; immediate denial with late acceptance of HIV-positive results attributed to severe emotional and psychological distress at receiving results, fear of perceived side effects and long duration on ART. At interpersonal level, we found that anticipated and enacted stigma after HIV diagnosis resulted in non-disclosure, discrimination and lack of social support. We found that challenges at entry (during HIV test) and navigation of the HIV care system in addition to individual and interpersonal factors contributed to delayed ART initiation. Interventions during HIV testing would facilitate early ART initiation among patients referred for HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheal Kiyingi
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joaniter I Nankabirwa
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala Uganda
| | | | - Joan Nangendo
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala Uganda
| | - John M Kiweewa
- Education Department, Fairfield University, Fairfield, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Anne R Katahoire
- Child Health Development Center, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C Semitala
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala Uganda
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Michel AS, Kamudoni P, Marrel A, Adiutori R, Desvignes-Gleizes C, Lanar S, Schache P, Spies E, Park J. Integrating qualitative interviews in drug development and the use of qualitative evidence in product labelling and health technology assessments: a review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1197529. [PMID: 37415771 PMCID: PMC10322192 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1197529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Including qualitative research in clinical trial design is an innovative approach to understanding patients' perspective and incorporate the patient's voice in all stages of drug development and evaluation. This review aims to explore current practices, lessons learned from the literature, as well as how qualitative interviews are considered by health authorities for marketing authorization and reimbursement. Methods A targeted literature review of Medline and Embase databases was conducted in February 2022 to identify publications on qualitative methods embedded in clinical trial of pharmaceutical products. An additional search of guidelines and labeling claims of approved products regarding qualitative research was performed in various sources of grey literature. Results From the 24 publications and nine documents reviewed, we identified the research questions addressed with qualitative methods during clinical trials (e.g., change in quality of life, symptoms assessment, treatment benefit), preferred data collection methods (e.g., interviews), and data collection points (e.g., baseline and exit interviews). Moreover, the data from labels and HTAs demonstrate that qualitative data can play an important role in approval processes. Conclusion The use of in-trial interviews is still emerging and is not yet common practice. Although the industry, scientific community, regulatory agencies and HTAs are showing an increasing interest in the use of evidence generated via in-trial interviews, guidance from regulators and HTAs would be helpful. Developing new methods and technologies to address the common challenges for such interviews is key to progress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Kamudoni
- Merck KgaA, Clinical Measurement Sciences, Global Research and Development, Healthcare, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Sally Lanar
- ICON Plc, Patient Centered Outcomes, Lyon, France
| | | | - Erica Spies
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., A Business of Merck KGaA, Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Global Research and Development Healthcare, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Josephine Park
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., A Business of Merck KGaA, Patient Centered Outcomes Research, Global Research and Development Healthcare, Darmstadt, Germany
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Okorie CN, Gutin SA, Getahun M, Lebu SA, Okiring J, Neilands TB, Ssali S, Cohen CR, Maeri I, Eyul P, Bukusi EA, Charlebois ED, Camlin CS. Sex specific differences in HIV status disclosure and care engagement among people living with HIV in rural communities in Kenya and Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0000556. [PMID: 37027350 PMCID: PMC10081749 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Non-disclosure of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status can hinder optimal health outcomes for people living with HIV (PLHIV). We sought to explore experiences with and correlates of disclosure among PLHIV participating in a study of population mobility. Survey data were collected from 1081 PLHIV from 2015-16 in 12 communities in Kenya and Uganda participating in a test-and-treat trial (SEARCH, NCT#01864603). Pooled and sex-stratified multiple logistic regression models examined associations of disclosure with risk behaviors controlling for covariates and community clustering. At baseline, 91.0% (n = 984) of PLHIV had disclosed their serostatus. Amongst those who had never disclosed, 31% feared abandonment (47.4% men vs. 15.0% women; p = 0.005). Non-disclosure was associated with no condom use in the past 6 months (aOR = 2.44; 95%CI, 1.40-4.25) and with lower odds of receiving care (aOR = 0.8; 95%CI, 0.04-0.17). Unmarried versus married men had higher odds of non- disclosure (aOR = 4.65, 95%CI, 1.32-16.35) and no condom use in the past 6 months (aOR = 4.80, 95%CI, 1.74-13.20), as well as lower odds of receiving HIV care (aOR = 0.15; 95%CI, 0.04-50 0.49). Unmarried versus married women had higher odds of non-disclosure (aOR = 3.14, 95%CI, 1.47-6.73) and lower odds of receiving HIV care if they had never disclosed (aOR = 0.05, 95%CI, 0.02-0.14). Findings highlight gender differences in barriers to HIV disclosure, use of condoms, and engagement in HIV care. Interventions focused on differing disclosure support needs for women and men are needed and may help facilitate better care engagement for men and women and improve condom use in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinomnso N. Okorie
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Sarah A. Gutin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Monica Getahun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Sarah A. Lebu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Sarah Ssali
- School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Microbiology Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Patrick Eyul
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Microbiology Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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10
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Maluleka LM, Hlongwane N, Mokgatle MM. Knowledge and Perceptions of Healthcare Workers about the Implementation of the Universal Test and Treat Guideline in Under-Resourced, High-HIV Prevalence Rural Settings. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11070968. [PMID: 37046895 PMCID: PMC10094157 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11070968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: South Africa (SA) began implementing its Universal Test and Treat (UTT) policy in September 2016 and Same Day Initiation (SDI) in 2017, aiming to meet the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets by 2020. With significant advances in HIV testing, large gaps remain in the linkage and retention in care. As part of a contribution to the successful implementation of UTT, this study aims to examine progress in the implementation of the UTT and to identify gaps and facilitators in the successful implementation of the guidelines from the perspective of healthcare providers from under-resourced, high-HIV prevalence rural settings. Methods: We conducted a census of all 170 professional nurses from 18 primary healthcare (PHC) clinics in Rustenburg, South Africa, between October 2018 and February 2019. The perceptions, knowledge and attitudes of nursing staff associated with UTT implementation were investigated though the dissemination of self-administered questionnaires. Stata 16.0 was used to analyse the data. Frequency and contingency tables were used to present categorical data. The precision of the estimates was measured using a 95% confidence interval (95% CI), and the p-value of statistical significance is p < 0.05. Results: The facilities were found to have adequate governance and supervision, but gaps were identified, including staffing challenges, bottlenecks and under-resourced service delivery platforms. It was found that a high level of knowledge is a predictor of positive perception of the UTT programme and its implementation. Being supported by capacity development and having positive perceptions of UTT were important motivators for UTT implementation. Conclusions: This study was able to identify potential facilitators of the UTT strategy implementation at the selected facilities. Clinical guidelines and policies on UTT contributed to successful implementation, which means that the process of closing the gaps identified should prioritise the delivery, support and prioritisation of capacity development, infrastructure and the provision of clinical guidelines to all healthcare workers. It is recommended that nurses receive training on UTT and its benefits to increase their knowledge and promote its successful implementation in clinics.
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11
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Parcesepe AM, Filiatreau LM, Gomez A, Ebasone PV, Dzudie A, Pence BW, Wainberg M, Yotebieng M, Anastos K, Pefura-Yone E, Nsame D, Ajeh R, Nash D. HIV-Related Stigma, Social Support, and Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders Among People with HIV Initiating HIV Care in Cameroon. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:146-154. [PMID: 36802206 PMCID: PMC10024262 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV-related stigma has been associated with poor mental health among people with HIV (PWH). Social support is a potentially modifiable factor that may buffer negative mental health sequelae of HIV-related stigma. Little is known about the extent to which the modifying effect of social support differs across mental health disorders. Interviews were conducted with 426 PWH in Cameroon. Log binomial regression analyses were used to estimate the association between high anticipated HIV-related stigma and low social support from family or friends and symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and harmful alcohol use, separately. Anticipated HIV-related stigma was commonly endorsed with ∼80% endorsing at least 1 of 12 stigma-related concerns. In multivariable analyses, high anticipated HIV-related stigma was associated with greater prevalence of symptoms of depression {adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) 1.6 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-2.2]} and anxiety [aPR 2.0 (95% CI 1.4-2.9)]. Low social support was associated with greater prevalence of symptoms of depression [aPR 1.5 (95% CI 1.1-2.2)], anxiety [aPR 1.7 (95% CI 1.2-2.5)], and PTSD [aPR 1.6 (95% CI 1.0-2.4)]. However, social support did not meaningfully modify the relationship between HIV-related stigma and symptoms of any mental health disorders explored. Anticipated HIV-related stigma was commonly reported among this group of PWH initiating HIV care in Cameroon. Social concerns related to gossip or losing friends were of the greatest concern. Interventions focused on reducing stigma and strengthening support systems may be particularly beneficial and have the potential to improve the mental health of PWH in Cameroon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M. Parcesepe
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lindsey M. Filiatreau
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Amanda Gomez
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Anastase Dzudie
- Clinical Research Education Networking and Consultancy, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Brian W. Pence
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Milton Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Department of Medicine and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | | | - Denis Nsame
- Bamenda Regional Hospital, Bamenda, Cameroon
| | - Rogers Ajeh
- Clinical Research Education Networking and Consultancy, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Denis Nash
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
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12
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Kiyingi M, Nankabirwa JI, Sekaggya-Wiltshire C, Nangendo J, Kiweewa JM, Katahoire AR, Semitala FC. Predictors of delayed Anti-Retroviral Therapy initiation among adults referred for HIV treatment in Uganda: a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:40. [PMID: 36647104 PMCID: PMC9843953 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09052-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] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uganda's current guidelines recommend immediate initiation of Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) for persons living with HIV in order to reduce HIV/AIDS related morbidity and mortality. However, not all eligible PLHIV initiate ART within the recommended time following HIV diagnosis. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with delayed ART initiation among PLHIV referred for ART initiation, five years since rolling out the test and treat guidelines. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled adult patients referred to Mulago Immune Suppressive Syndrome (Mulago ISS) clinic for ART initiation from January 2017 to May 2021. We collected data on socio-demographics, HIV diagnosis and referral circumstances, and time to ART initiation using a questionnaire. The outcome of interest was proportion of patients that delayed ART, defined as spending more than 30 days from HIV diagnosis to ART initiation. We performed multivariable logistic regression and identified significant factors. RESULTS A total of 312 patients were enrolled of which 62.2% were female. The median (inter-quartile range [IQR]) age and baseline CD4 count of the patients were 35 (28-42) years and 315 (118.8-580.5) cells/μL respectively. Forty-eight (15.4%) patients delayed ART initiation and had a median (IQR) time to ART of 92 (49.0-273.5) days. The factors associated with delayed ART initiation were; 1) having had the HIV diagnosis made from a private health facility versus public, (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-5.5); 2) initial denial of positive HIV test results, aOR = 5.4 (95% CI: 2.0-15.0); and, 3) having not received a follow up phone call from the place of HIV diagnosis, aOR = 2.8 (95% CI: 1.2-6.8). CONCLUSION There was significant delay of ART initiation among referred PLHIV within 5 years after the rollout of test and treat guidelines in Uganda. Health system challenges in the continuity of HIV care services negatively affects timely ART initiation among referred PLHIV in Uganda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheal Kiyingi
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda ,grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joaniter I. Nankabirwa
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda ,grid.463352.50000 0004 8340 3103Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Joan Nangendo
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda ,grid.463352.50000 0004 8340 3103Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John M. Kiweewa
- grid.255794.80000 0001 0727 1047Education Department, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT USA
| | - Anne R. Katahoire
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Child Health and Development Center, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda ,grid.11194.3c0000 0004 0620 0548Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda ,grid.463352.50000 0004 8340 3103Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
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13
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Chigona RK, Mipando ALN. "There Are Just Too Many Rooms Here!" Perception of Clients and Health Care Workers on the Implementation of Test and Treat Strategy at Area 25 Health Center in Lilongwe, Malawi. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2023; 22:23259582231154224. [PMID: 36760147 PMCID: PMC9943958 DOI: 10.1177/23259582231154224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Malawi adopted World Health Organisation test-and-treat policy in 2016. The policy initiates early antiretroviral treatment to all clients diagnosed with HIV, irrespective of their CD4 count. However, some facilities record low linkage following the strategy. Perceptions of clients and health care workers on the implementation of test-and-treat strategy were explored in Malawi. Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach was conducted in which 21 in-depth interviews, 9 key informant interviews, and 15 non-participatory observations were conducted. Data were analyzed following thematic approach. Results: Most participants had positive perceptions of the test-and-treat strategy. However, negative perceptions stemmed from the fragmented structure of the facility with multiple rooms in which the client navigates through as well as limited privacy. Conclusion: Optimal implementation of the test-and-treat strategy will need to strengthen privacy and minimize unintended disclosure that is inherent in the organization of services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Kasiya Chigona
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, 37610University of Malawi College of Medicine, Chichiri, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Alinane Linda Nyondo Mipando
- Lecturer - Health Systems and Policy, Director - MBA in Health Systems Management Program, Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (formerly College of Medicine), Chichiri, Blantyre, Malawi
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14
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Omollo V, Roche SD, Mogaka F, Odoyo J, Barnabee G, Bukusi EA, Katz AWK, Morton J, Johnson R, Baeten JM, Celum C, O’Malley G. Provider–client rapport in pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery: a qualitative analysis of provider and client experiences of an implementation science project in Kenya. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2022; 30:2095707. [PMID: 36169648 PMCID: PMC9542727 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2022.2095707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being incorporated into services frequented by adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa who are at a significant risk of HIV. In non-PrEP studies, positive provider–client rapport has been shown to improve patient decision-making and use of medication in clinical care. We examined AGYW and healthcare provider (HCP) perspectives on the value of and strategies for building positive provider–client rapport. We conducted in-depth interviews from January 2018 to December 2019 with 38 AGYW and 15 HCPs from two family planning clinics in Kisumu, Kenya where PrEP was being delivered to AGYW as part of the Prevention Options for Women Evaluation Research (POWER) study. We used semi-structured interview guides and audio-recorded interviews with participant consent. Verbatim transcripts were analysed using thematic content analysis. HCPs and AGYW emphasised the importance of positive provider–client rapport to meet AGYW support needs in PrEP service delivery. HCPs described how they employed rapport-building strategies that strengthened AGYW PrEP uptake and continuation, including: (1) using friendly and non-judgmental tones; (2) maintaining client confidentiality (to build client trust); (3) adopting a conversational approach (to enable accurate risk assessment); (4) actively listening and tailoring counselling (to promote client knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy); and (5) supporting client agency. Positive provider–client relationships and negative experiences identified in this analysis have the potential to facilitate/deter AGYW from using PrEP while at risk. The strategies to enhance provider–client rapport identified in this study could be integrated into PrEP provider training and delivery practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Omollo
- Clinical Research Scientist, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P. O. Box 614-40100, Agoi Street, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Stephanie D. Roche
- Staff Scientist, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Felix Mogaka
- Clinical Research Scientist, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Research and Evaluation Advisor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Gena Barnabee
- Research and Evaluation Advisor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Senior Principal Clinical Research Scientist, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Research Professor, Department of Global Health; Research Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ariana W. K. Katz
- Public Health Analyst, Women’s Global Health Imperative (WGHI), RTI International, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Morton
- Operations Team Manager, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rachel Johnson
- Managing Director, International Clinical Research Center (ICRC), University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Professor, Department of Global Health, [Professor] Department of Medicine; Professor, Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Vice President of Clinical Development, Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, USA>
| | - Connie Celum
- Professor, Department of Global Health; Professor, Department of Medicine; [Professor] Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Gabrielle O’Malley
- Professor, Department of Global Health, University of Washington Seattle, Seattle, WA, USA
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15
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Seu R, Riback LR, Nyakowa M, Lizcano J, Musyoki H, Ross J, Cherutich P, Kurth AE, Akiyama MJ. Challenges and best practices for hepatitis C care among people who inject drugs in resource limited settings: focus group discussions with healthcare providers in Kenya. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3627-3637. [PMID: 35941717 PMCID: PMC9898079 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2110919] [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: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
People who inject drugs (PWID) living with Hepatitis C (HCV) in low- and middle-income countries face substantial barriers to HCV care. We sought to gain healthcare providers' perspectives on challenges and best practices for HCV care provision among PWID in Kenya. We conducted three focus group discussions (FGD) with 23 healthcare providers working with PWID living with HCV in Nairobi and Mombasa. Transcribed interviews were analysed thematically. Overarching themes regarding HCV prevention and treatment were: (1) lack of HCV-related knowledge at the provider and patient levels; (2) stigmatisation of people living with HCV and PWID; and (3) difficulties among PWID with navigating the healthcare system. Some providers suggested systematically integrating HCV care into existing PWID-specific harm reduction programs to improve HCV care provision as well as creating national HCV guidelines to guide clinicians. This study highlights the need for national HCV treatment guidelines and increased public HCV education, as well as culturally sensitive models integrating HCV care into programs PWID are already accessing. These strategies will be useful in improving access to HCV care among PWID and has the potential to decrease HCV transmission and prevalence among this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rie Seu
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Lindsey R Riback
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mercy Nyakowa
- Kenya Ministry of Health, National AIDS & STI Control Program (NASCOP), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Lizcano
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, USA
| | - Helgar Musyoki
- Kenya Ministry of Health, National AIDS & STI Control Program (NASCOP), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Peter Cherutich
- Kenya Ministry of Health, National AIDS & STI Control Program (NASCOP), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ann E Kurth
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT, USA
| | - Matthew J Akiyama
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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16
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Camlin CS, Marson K, Ndyabakira A, Getahun M, Emperador D, Byamukama A, Kwarisiima D, Thirumurthy H, Chamie G. Understanding the role of incentives for achieving and sustaining viral suppression: A qualitative sub-study of a financial incentives trial in Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270180. [PMID: 35749510 PMCID: PMC9231797 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Viral suppression among people living with HIV (PLHIV) is essential for protecting health and preventing HIV transmission, yet globally, rates of viral suppression are sub-optimal. Interventions to improve HIV prevention and care cascade outcomes remain vital. Financial incentives hold promise for improving these outcomes, yet to date, clinical trial results have been mixed. Methods This qualitative sub-study, embedded in a trial (NCT02890459) in Uganda to test whether incentives are effective for achieving viral suppression in PLHIV, sought to enhance our understanding of the factors that influence this outcome. Forty-nine (n = 49) PLHIV, purposely sampled to balance across gender, study arm, and viral suppression status, were interviewed to explore barriers and motivations for care engagement, adherence, and viral suppression, and attributions for decision-making, including perceived influence of incentives on behaviors. Results While many participants with undetectable viral load (VL) who received incentives said the incentives motivated their ART adherence, others expressed intrinsic motivation for adherence. All felt that incentives reduced burdens of transport costs, lost income due to time spent away from work, and food insecurity. Incentives may have activated attention and memory for some, as excitement about anticipating incentives helped them adhere to medication schedules. In comparison, participants who were randomized to receive incentives but had detectable VL faced a wider range, complexity and severity of challenges to care engagement. Notably, their narratives included more accounts of poor treatment in clinics, food insecurity, and severe forms of stigma. With or without incentives, adherence was reinforced through experiencing restored health due to ART, social support (especially from partners), and good quality counseling and clinical care. Conclusions In considering why incentives sometimes fail to achieve behavior change, it may be helpful to attend to the full set of factors- psychological, interpersonal, social and structural- that militate against the behavior change required to achieve behavioral outcomes. To be effective, incentives may need to be combined with other interventions to address the spectrum of barriers to care engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kara Marson
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | | - Monica Getahun
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Devy Emperador
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | | | | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Chamie
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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17
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Katirayi L, Shoopala N, Mitruka K, Mengistu A, Woelk G, Baughman AL, Mutandi G, Hong SY, Hamunime N. Taking care to the patients: a qualitative evaluation of a community-based ART care program in northern Namibia. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:498. [PMID: 35422033 PMCID: PMC9009034 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07928-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Namibia is a large sparsely populated country with a high prevalence of HIV. People living with HIV who reside in remote areas often travel long distances through tough desert terrain to access HIV care and treatment. To address this barrier, community-based antiretroviral therapy (C-BART) sites were established in Okongo (2007–2008) and Eenhana districts (2016) of northern Namibia with the goal of bringing HIV and other health services closer patients’ homes. We conducted a qualitative evaluation of the acceptability and challenges of C-BART to guide program improvement. Methods For this qualitative descriptive study, research assistants collected data (August-December 2017) through in-depth interviews with 40 patients, seven health extension workers, and 11 policy/program managers, and through four focus group discussions with healthcare workers. Interviews were audio-recorded, translated, and coded using MAXQDA v.12. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results The evaluation identified five themes: community ownership, acceptance of the C-BART sites, benefits of the C-BART program for the PLHIV community and their social networks, benefits of the C-BART program to the main health facility, and challenges with the C-BART program. The C-BART program was reported as life-changing by many patients who had previously struggled to afford four-wheel drive vehicles to access care. Patients and healthcare workers perceived that the community as a whole benefited from the C-BART sites not only due to the financial pressure lifted from friends and family members previously asked to help cover expensive transportation, but also due to the perception of diminished stigmatization of people living with HIV and improved health. The C-BART sites became a source of community and social support for those accessing the sites. Healthcare workers reported greater job satisfaction and decongestion of health facilities. The challenges that they reported included delays in authorization of vehicles for transportation to C-BART sites and lack of incentives to provide services in the community. Conclusion The C-BART program can serve as a model of care to expand access to HIV care and treatment and other health services to populations in remote settings, including rural and difficult-to-reach regions. The needs of healthcare workers should also be considered for the optimal delivery of such a model. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07928-0.
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Wanjala SW, Too EK, Luchters S, Abubakar A. Psychometric Properties of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:13074. [PMID: 34948690 PMCID: PMC8701211 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413074] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Addressing HIV-related stigma requires the use of psychometrically sound measures. However, despite the Berger HIV stigma scale (HSS) being among the most widely used measures for assessing HIV-related stigma, no study has systematically summarised its psychometric properties. This review investigated the psychometric properties of the HSS. A systematic review of articles published between 2001 and August 2021 was undertaken (CRD42020220305) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Additionally, we searched the grey literature and screened the reference lists of the included studies. Of the total 1241 studies that were screened, 166 were included in the review, of which 24 were development and/or validation studies. The rest were observational or experimental studies. All the studies except two reported some aspect of the scale's reliability. The reported internal consistency ranged from acceptable to excellent (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.70) in 93.2% of the studies. Only eight studies reported test-retest reliability, and the reported reliability was adequate, except for one study. Only 36 studies assessed and established the HSS's validity. The HSS appears to be a reliable and valid measure of HIV-related stigma. However, the validity evidence came from only 36 studies, most of which were conducted in North America and Europe. Consequently, more validation work is necessary for more precise insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley W. Wanjala
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Campus UZ-Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Social Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi P.O. Box 195-80108, Kenya
| | - Ezra K. Too
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Campus UZ-Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi P.O. Box 195-80108, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Neuroassessment Group, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi P.O. Box 230-80108, Kenya
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Hooft A, Pfeil S, Mussengue J, Jetha E, He F, Jain S, Manuel S, Langa PV, Sundararajan R. Explaining utilization of HIV prevention and testing services among university students in Mozambique: results from a mixed methods study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1891. [PMID: 34666721 PMCID: PMC8525004 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11788-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Mozambique, HIV infection disproportionately affects young adults, particularly women. Despite awareness and knowledge of HIV transmission, many university students have not received HIV testing and continue to engage in high-risk sexual behaviors, including inconsistent condom use. Further understanding of patterns of engagement with HIV prevention and testing is key to reducing HIV transmission in this at-risk population. METHODS This study used a sequential mixed methods approach to examine patterns of engagement and perceptions of HIV prevention and testing services among higher education students in Mozambique. Survey data were collected from a representative sample of 501 students from Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM) in Maputo, Mozambique to assess the primary outcomes of 1) HIV testing within the last 12 months; and 2) condom use during last sexual encounter. We employed univariate and multivariate regression models. The survey was followed by qualitative interviews with 70 survey participants which were analyzed using an inductive, content-focused analysis to further explain and contextualize survey findings. RESULTS Over 85% of students reported to be sexually active, among these 74% reported condom use during their last sexual encounter, and 64.2% reported an HIV test within the past 12 months. Females were more likely to have had HIV testing in the past 12 months in comparison to their male peers (aOR 1.82, 95% CI 1.11, 2.99), but were half as likely to have used a condom with their last sexual encounter (aOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.33, 0.83), when controlling for other factors. Qualitative data suggests that these discrepancies may be explained by differential perceptions in risk and trust/mistrust, with women being more concerned about infidelity by their male partner(s) and assuming more responsibility for knowing their own serostatus. Women were also subject to negative stereotypes for possessing condoms in comparison to men, which could explain lower propensity for use. CONCLUSION Given gendered differences in uptake of condom use and HIV testing, and perceived HIV risk, interventions tailored specifically to male and female students may impact engagement with HIV prevention and testing and empower informed choices about sexual behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneka Hooft
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, 550 16th St, 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Sarah Pfeil
- University of California, Davis, 4860 Y Street #2500, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Josina Mussengue
- Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, 3453 Avenida Julius Nyere, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Eunice Jetha
- Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, 3453 Avenida Julius Nyere, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Feng He
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, 92093, CA, USA
| | - Sonia Jain
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, 92093, CA, USA
| | - Sandra Manuel
- Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, 3453 Avenida Julius Nyere, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Patrício V Langa
- Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, 3453 Avenida Julius Nyere, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Radhika Sundararajan
- Center for Global Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 East 67th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 585 East 68th Street, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Apondi E, Wachira J, Ayikukwei R, Kafu C, Onyango J, Omollo M, Genberg B, Nyandiko W, Braitstein P. Barriers to ART adherence among school students living with HIV in Kenya. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2021; 20:232-237. [PMID: 34635018 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2021.1979606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
HIV has transformed from a serious acute illness with high rates of morbidity and mortality to a fairly easily managed chronic disease. However, children and adolescents living with HIV are yet to achieve similar improvement in their HIV care outcomes compared to adults. There have been a number of studies assessing the reasons for slower improvement in these age categories, mainly focusing on health systems, drug- and family- related barriers to ART adherence in children. We sought to explore school-related barriers to adherence through in-depth interviews with students living with HIV (SLHIV) aged 13-17 years who had fully disclosed their HIV status in western Kenya. Data was analysed using NVivo 8™. The study found that stigmatisation in the form of negative discussions and alienation, fear of unintended disclosure (due to the drug packaging and lack of privacy while taking their pills) were barriers to ART adherence among these SLHIV. Other barriers included challenges with drug storage while in school and the complexity of coordinating school and clinic-related activities and a lack of structured support systems in schools. In addition to hindering their adherence to ART, these barriers resulted in negative emotions (anger, sadness, frustration) and affected school performance. This study found fairly serious barriers to ART adherence among SLHIV, which calls for structured communication and coordinated support between government ministries of health and education in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Child Health and Paediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Juddy Wachira
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Child Health and Paediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Rose Ayikukwei
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Catherine Kafu
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jael Onyango
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Becky Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA
| | - Winstone Nyandiko
- Child Health and Paediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- USAID-AMPTH Partnership, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Hickey MD, Ouma GB, Mattah B, Pederson B, DesLauriers NR, Mohamed P, Obanda J, Odhiambo A, Njoroge B, Otieno L, Zoughbie DE, Ding EL, Fiorella KJ, Bukusi EA, Cohen CR, Geng EH, Salmen CR. The Kanyakla study: Randomized controlled trial of a microclinic social network intervention for promoting engagement and retention in HIV care in rural western Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255945. [PMID: 34516557 PMCID: PMC8437299 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing social relationships are a potential source of "social capital" that can enhance support for sustained retention in HIV care. A previous pilot study of a social network-based 'microclinic' intervention, including group health education and facilitated HIV status disclosure, reduced disengagement from HIV care. We conducted a pragmatic randomized trial to evaluate microclinic effectiveness. METHODS In nine rural health facilities in western Kenya, we randomized HIV-positive adults with a recent missed clinic visit to either participation in a microclinic or usual care (NCT02474992). We collected visit data at all clinics where participants accessed care and evaluated intervention effect on disengagement from care (≥90-day absence from care after a missed visit) and the proportion of time patients were adherent to clinic visits ('time-in-care'). We also evaluated changes in social support, HIV status disclosure, and HIV-associated stigma. RESULTS Of 350 eligible patients, 304 (87%) enrolled, with 154 randomized to intervention and 150 to control. Over one year of follow-up, disengagement from care was similar in intervention and control (18% vs 17%, hazard ratio 1.03, 95% CI 0.61-1.75), as was time-in-care (risk difference -2.8%, 95% CI -10.0% to +4.5%). The intervention improved social support for attending clinic appointments (+0.4 units on 5-point scale, 95% CI 0.08-0.63), HIV status disclosure to close social supports (+0.3 persons, 95% CI 0.2-0.5), and reduced stigma (-0.3 units on 5-point scale, 95% CI -0.40 to -0.17). CONCLUSIONS The data from our pragmatic randomized trial in rural western Kenya are compatible with the null hypothesis of no difference in HIV care engagement between those who participated in a microclinic intervention and those who did not, despite improvements in proposed intervention mechanisms of action. However, some benefit or harm cannot be ruled out because the confidence intervals were wide. Results differ from a prior quasi-experimental pilot study, highlighting important implementation considerations when evaluating complex social interventions for HIV care. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical trial number: NCT02474992.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Hickey
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases & Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - Gor B. Ouma
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Ekialo Kiona Centre, Mfangano Island, Kenya
| | - Brian Mattah
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Ekialo Kiona Centre, Mfangano Island, Kenya
| | - Ben Pederson
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Providence Oregon Family Medicine Residency, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Nicholas R. DesLauriers
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Pamela Mohamed
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Ekialo Kiona Centre, Mfangano Island, Kenya
| | - Joyce Obanda
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Ekialo Kiona Centre, Mfangano Island, Kenya
| | - Abdi Odhiambo
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Ekialo Kiona Centre, Mfangano Island, Kenya
| | - Betty Njoroge
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linda Otieno
- Family AIDS Care and Education Services (FACES), Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Daniel E. Zoughbie
- Microclinic International, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Eric L. Ding
- Microclinic International, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Kathryn J. Fiorella
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Elvin H. Geng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University, St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Charles R. Salmen
- Organic Health Response Research Group, Mfangano Island, Kenya
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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Irungu EM, Odoyo J, Wamoni E, Bukusi EA, Mugo NR, Ngure K, Morton JF, Mugwanya KK, Baeten JM, O'Malley G. Process evaluation of PrEP implementation in Kenya: adaptation of practices and contextual modifications in public HIV care clinics. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25799. [PMID: 34496148 PMCID: PMC8425783 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Africa, oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is largely provided via over-burdened public HIV care clinics. Successfully incorporating PrEP services into these clinics may require adaptations to practices outlined in national implementation guidelines and modifications to routine existing service delivery. We aimed to describe adaptations made by public HIV clinics in Kenya to integrate PrEP delivery into existing services. METHODS The Partners Scale-Up Project aimed to catalyse integration of PrEP in 25 public HIV care clinics. Between May and December 2018, we conducted qualitative interviews with health providers and documented clinic observations in technical assistance (TA) reports to understand the process of PrEP service integration. We analysed 36 health provider interview transcripts and 25 TA reports to identify clinic-level adaptations to activities outlined in Kenyan Ministry of Health PrEP guidelines and modifications made to existing service delivery practices to successfully incorporate PrEP services. Identified adaptations were reported using the expanded framework for reporting adaptations and modifications (FRAME). RESULTS All clinics (n = 25) performed HIV testing, HIV risk assessment, PrEP education and adherence counselling as stipulated in the guidelines. Most clinics initiated clients on PrEP without creatinine testing if otherwise healthy. While monthly refill appointments are recommended, a majority of clinics issued PrEP users two to three months of pills at a time. Clinics also implemented practices that had not been specified in the guidelines including incorporating PrEP-related topics into routine health talks, calling clients with missed PrEP appointments, discussing PrEP service delivery in regular staff meetings, 'fast-tracking' PrEP clients and dispensing PrEP in clinic rooms rather than at clinic-based pharmacies. PrEP initiation numbers were highest among clinics that did not require creatinine testing, conducted peer on-the-job PrEP training and those that discussed PrEP delivery in their routine meetings. Above-average continuation was observed among clinics that discussed PrEP in their routine meetings, dispensed PrEP in clinic rooms and offered PrEP at nonregular hours. CONCLUSIONS Health providers in public HIV care clinics instituted practices and made innovative adaptations to PrEP delivery to reduce barriers for clients and staff. Encouraging clinic level adaptations to national implementation guidelines will facilitate scale-up of PrEP delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M. Irungu
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Josephine Odoyo
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Elizabeth Wamoni
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Centre for Microbiology ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Centre for Clinical ResearchKenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- School of Public HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | | | | | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Gilead SciencesFoster CityCAUSA
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Okere NE, Sambu V, Ndungile Y, van Praag E, Hermans S, Naniche D, de Wit TFR, Maokola W, Gomez GB. The Shinyanga Patient: A Patient's Journey through HIV Treatment Cascade in Rural Tanzania. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:8418. [PMID: 34444166 PMCID: PMC8393654 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168418] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The 2016-2017 Tanzania HIV Impact Survey (THIS) reported the accomplishments towards the 90-90-90 global HIV targets at 61-94-87, affirming the need to focus on the first 90 (i.e., getting 90% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) tested). We conducted a patient-pathway analysis to understand the gap observed, by assessing the alignment between where PLHIV seek healthcare and where HIV services are available in the Shinyanga region, Tanzania. We used existing and publicly available data from the National AIDS Control program, national surveys, registries, and relevant national reports. Region-wide, the majority (n = 458/722, 64%) of THIS respondents accessed their last HIV test at public sector facilities. There were 65.9%, 45.1%, and 74.1% who could also access antiretroviral therapy (ART), CD4 testing, and HIV viral load testing at the location of their last HIV test, respectively. In 2019, the viral suppression rate estimated among PLHIV on ART in the Shinyanga region was 91.5%. PLHIV access HIV testing mostly in public health facilities; our research shows that synergies can be achieved to improve access to services further down the cascade in this sector. Furthermore, effective engagement with the private sector (not-for-profit and for-profit) will help to achieve the last mile toward ending the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nwanneka E Okere
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.H.); (T.F.R.d.W.)
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, 1105 BP Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Veryeh Sambu
- National AIDS Control Programme, Dodoma 41110, Tanzania; (V.S.); (W.M.)
| | - Yudas Ndungile
- Regional Health Management Team, Shinyanga 37103, Tanzania;
| | - Eric van Praag
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, 1105 BP Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Sabine Hermans
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.H.); (T.F.R.d.W.)
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, 1105 BP Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Denise Naniche
- ISGlobal-Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Tobias F Rinke de Wit
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (S.H.); (T.F.R.d.W.)
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, 1105 BP Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Werner Maokola
- National AIDS Control Programme, Dodoma 41110, Tanzania; (V.S.); (W.M.)
| | - Gabriela B Gomez
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
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Lofgren SM, Tsui S, Atuyambe L, Ankunda L, Komuhendo R, Wamala N, Sadiq A, Kirumira P, Srishyla D, Flynn A, Pastick KA, Meya DB, Nakasujja N, Porta C. Barriers to HIV care in Uganda and implications for universal test-and-treat: a qualitative study. AIDS Care 2021; 34:597-605. [PMID: 34314261 PMCID: PMC8792098 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1946000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Achieving universal HIV test-and-treat will require targeted interventions for those with worse outcomes, including advanced HIV. We conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews with healthcare workers (HCWs) and people living with HIV (PLWH) at 5 HIV clinics in Kampala, Uganda, to understand barriers to care. PLWH enrolled started/restarted on HIV treatment ≤3 months prior. PLWH were grouped as 1) "ART-experienced" or those restarted therapy after ≥12 months off, 2) ART naïve CD4 count <100 cells/uL "late presenters" or 3) ART naïve CD4 count >350 cells/uL "early presenters". In-depth interviews were conducted in Luganda, translated, and transcribed verbatim. Between May and August 2017, 58 PLWH and 20 HCWs were interviewed. High stigma and low social support emerged as themes among all as barriers to care. Alcohol abuse was a barrier for men. Fear of domestic violence and abandonment were barriers for women, limiting disclosure of their HIV status to their male partners. Clinic factors such as rapport with staff, distance, efficiency, and privacy impacted care. Future interventions to decrease delayed ART initiation should target stigma and social support. Assisted disclosure, contact tracing, and alcohol abuse treatment should be implemented. Strengthening client support, reducing wait times, and increasing privacy assurances would improve care-seeking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Lofgren
- University of Minnesota, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Medicine, Department of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA.,Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sharon Tsui
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lynn Atuyambe
- Makerere University, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Leander Ankunda
- Makerere University, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Nathan Wamala
- Makerere University, School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alisat Sadiq
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paul Kirumira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Diksha Srishyla
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Andrew Flynn
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Katelyn A Pastick
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,University of Minnesota, School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Makerere University, Department of Psychiatry, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Carolyn Porta
- University of Minnesota, School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Long-Distance Travel for HIV-Related Care-Burden or Choice?: A Mixed Methods Study in Tanzania. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2071-2083. [PMID: 33415657 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03136-1] [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] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Decentralization of HIV care across sub-Saharan Africa has increased access to anti-retroviral therapy (ART). Although traveling for care has traditionally been viewed as a barrier, some individuals may choose to travel for care due to stigma and fear of HIV status disclosure. We sought to understand the prevalence of traveling long distances for HIV care, as well as reasons for engaging in such travel. Using a concurrent embedded mixed-methods study design, individuals receiving care at two HIV care and treatment clinics in Tanzania completed a quantitative survey (n = 196), and a sub-set of participants reporting long-distance travel for care were interviewed (n = 31). Overall 58.2% of participants (n = 114/196) reported knowing of a closer clinic than the one they chose to attend. Having experienced enacted stigma was significantly associated with traveling for care (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.12, 4.75, p = 0.02). Reasons for clinic choice centered on three main themes: clinic familiarity, quality of care, and stigma. Traveling for care was often viewed as an enabling strategy for remaining engaged in care by helping overcome other barriers, including stigma and suboptimal quality of care.
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Hoffman RM, Moyo C, Balakasi KT, Siwale Z, Hubbard J, Bardon A, Fox MP, Kakwesa G, Kalua T, Nyasa-Haambokoma M, Dovel K, Campbell PM, Tseng CH, Pisa PT, Cele R, Gupta S, Benade M, Long L, Xulu T, Sanne I, Rosen S. Multimonth dispensing of up to 6 months of antiretroviral therapy in Malawi and Zambia (INTERVAL): a cluster-randomised, non-blinded, non-inferiority trial. LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2021; 9:e628-e638. [PMID: 33865471 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(21)00039-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facility-based, multimonth dispensing of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV could reduce burdens on patients and providers and improve retention in care. We assessed whether 6-monthly ART dispensing was non-inferior to standard of care and 3-monthly ART dispensing. METHODS We did a pragmatic, cluster-randomised, unblinded, non-inferiority trial (INTERVAL) at 30 health facilities in Malawi and Zambia. Eligible participants were aged 18 years or older, HIV-positive, and were clinically stable on ART. Before randomisation, health facilities (clusters) were matched on the basis of country, ART cohort size, facility type (ie, hospital vs health centre), and region or province. Matched clusters were randomly allocated (1:1:1) to standard of care, 3-monthly ART dispensing, or 6-monthly ART dispensing using a simple random allocation sequence. The primary outcome was retention in care at 12 months, defined as the proportion of patients with less than 60 consecutive days without ART during study follow-up, analysed by intention to treat. A 2·5% margin was used to assess non-inferiority. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03101592. FINDINGS Between May 15, 2017, and April 30, 2018, 9118 participants were randomly assigned, of whom 8719 participants (n=3012, standard of care group; n=2726, 3-monthly ART dispensing group; n=2981, 6-monthly ART dispensing group) had primary outcome data available at 12 months and were included in the primary analysis. The median age of participants was 42·7 years (IQR 36·1-49·9) and 5774 (66·2%) of 8719 were women. The primary outcome was met by 2478 (82·3%) of 3012 participants in the standard of care group, 2356 (86·4%) of 2726 participants in the 3-monthly ART dispensing group, and 2729 (91·5%) of 2981 participants in the 6-monthly ART dispensing group. After adjusting for clustering, for retention in care at 12 months, the 6-monthly ART dispensing group was non-inferior to the standard of care group (percentage-point increase 9·1 [95% CI 0·9-17·2]) and to the 3-monthly ART dispensing group (5·0% [1·0-9·1]). INTERPRETATION Clinical visits with ART dispensing every 6 months was non-inferior to standard of care and 3-monthly ART dispensing. 6-monthly ART dispensing is a promising strategy for the expansion of ART provision and achievement of HIV treatment targets in resource-constrained settings. FUNDING US Agency for International Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risa M Hoffman
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Julie Hubbard
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ashley Bardon
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Matthew P Fox
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Thokozani Kalua
- Department of HIV and AIDS, Malawi Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Kathryn Dovel
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Paula M Campbell
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chi-Hong Tseng
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pedro T Pisa
- Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Right to Care South Africa, Centurion, South Africa
| | - Refiloe Cele
- Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sundeep Gupta
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mariet Benade
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lawrence Long
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Thembi Xulu
- Right to Care South Africa, Centurion, South Africa
| | - Ian Sanne
- Right to Care South Africa, Centurion, South Africa
| | - Sydney Rosen
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Paediatrics, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sok P, Mgbere O, Pompeii L, Essien EJ. Evaluation of the Sociodemographic, Behavioral and Clinical Influences on Complete Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among HIV-Infected Adults Receiving Medical Care in Houston, Texas. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2021; 13:539-555. [PMID: 34040451 PMCID: PMC8140896 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s303791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Few studies have estimated complete antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence following HIV infection since the advent of the new ART guidelines in 2012. This study determined the prevalence and influence of sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors on complete ART adherence among people living with HIV (PLWH) receiving medical care in Houston/Harris County, Texas. Methods Data from the Houston Medical Monitoring Project survey collected from 2009 to 2014 among 1073 participants were used in this study. The primary outcome evaluated was combined adherence, defined as complete, partial, and incomplete combined adherence based on three ART adherence types—dose, schedule, and instruction adherence. The duration living since initial HIV diagnosis was classified as <5, 5–10 and >10 years. Rao–Scott Chi-square test and multivariable proportional-odds cumulative logit regression models were employed to identify the sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics of complete combined adherence among the three groups of PLWH living with HIV infection. Results More than one-half (54.4%) of PLWH had complete, 37.4% had partial, and 8.3% had incomplete combined adherence. Among these PLWH, 52.2% had been infected with HIV for >10 years, and 26.5% and 21.4% were infected for <5 years and 5–10 years, respectively. PLWH who were diagnosed <5 and 5–10 years were two times (aOR=1.71, 95% CI=1.13–2.57; aOR=1.69, 95% CI=1.10–2.59; respectively) more likely to experience complete combined adherence than those with >10 years of infection. Multiple sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics were significantly associated with complete adherence and varied by the duration of HIV infection. Conclusion Measures of adherence should include all adherence types (dose, schedule, instruction), as utilizing a single adherence type will overestimate adherence level in PLWH receiving medical care. Intervention efforts to maintain adherence should target recently infected PLWH, while those aimed at improving adherence should focus on longer infected PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pagna Sok
- The University of Texas School of Public Health, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Osaro Mgbere
- Disease Prevention and Control Division, Houston Health Department, Houston, TX, USA.,Institute of Community Health, University of Houston, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lisa Pompeii
- The University of Texas School of Public Health, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ekere James Essien
- The University of Texas School of Public Health, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Institute of Community Health, University of Houston, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy, University of Houston College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA
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How early is too early? Challenges in ART initiation and engaging in HIV care under Treat All in Rwanda-A qualitative study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251645. [PMID: 33984044 PMCID: PMC8118273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV treatment guidelines recommend that all people living with HIV (PLWH) initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) as soon as possible after diagnosis (Treat All). As Treat All is more widely implemented, an increasing proportion of PLWH are likely to initiate ART when they are asymptomatic, and they may view the relative benefits and risks of ART differently than those initiating at more advanced disease stages. To date, patient perspectives of initiating care under Treat All in sub-Saharan Africa have not been well described. Methods From September 2018 to March 2019, we conducted individual, semi-structured, qualitative interviews with 37 patients receiving HIV care in two health centers in Kigali, Rwanda. Data were analyzed using a mixed deductive and inductive thematic analysis approach to describe perceived barriers to, facilitators of and acceptability of initiating and adhering to ART rapidly under Treat All. Results Of 37 participants, 27 were women and the median age was 31 years. Participants described feeling traumatized and overwhelmed by their HIV diagnosis, resulting in difficulty accepting their HIV status. Most were prescribed ART soon after diagnosis, yet fear of lifelong medication and severe side effects in the immediate period after initiating ART led to challenges adhering to therapy. Moreover, because many PLWH initiated ART while healthy, taking medications and attending appointments were visible signals of HIV status and highly stigmatizing. Nonetheless, many participants expressed enthusiasm for Treat All as a program that improved health as well as health equity. Conclusion For newly-diagnosed PLWH in Rwanda, initiating ART rapidly under Treat All presents logistical and emotional challenges despite the perceived benefits. Our findings suggest that optimizing early engagement in HIV care under Treat All requires early and ongoing intervention to reduce trauma and stigma, and promote both individual and community benefits of ART.
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Grabowski MK, Patel EU, Nakigozi G, Ssempijja V, Ssekubugu R, Ssekasanvu J, Ndyanabo A, Kigozi G, Nalugoda F, Gray RH, Kalibbala S, Serwadda DM, Laeyendecker O, Wawer MJ, Chang LW, Quinn TC, Kagaayi J, Tobian AAR, Reynolds SJ. Prevalence and Predictors of Persistent Human Immunodeficiency Virus Viremia and Viral Rebound After Universal Test and Treat: A Population-Based Study. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1150-1160. [PMID: 33471100 PMCID: PMC8030722 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited data on individual human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load (VL) trajectories at the population-level after the introduction of universal test and treat (UTT) in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Human immunodeficiency virus VLs were assessed among HIV-positive participants through 3 population-based surveys in 4 Ugandan fishing communities surveyed between November 2011 and August 2017. The unit of analysis was a visit-pair (2 consecutive person-visits), which were categorized as exhibiting durable VL suppression, new/renewed VL suppression, viral rebound, or persistent viremia. Adjusted relative risks (adjRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of persistent viremia were estimated using multivariate Poisson regression. RESULTS There were 1346 HIV-positive participants (n = 1883 visit-pairs). The population-level prevalence of durable VL suppression increased from 29.7% to 67.9% during UTT rollout, viral rebound declined from 4.4% to 2.7%, and persistent viremia declined from 20.8% to 13.3%. Younger age (15-29 vs 40-49 years; adjRR = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.19-2.71), male sex (adjRR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.47-2.95), never being married (vs currently married; adjRR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.34-2.62), and recent migration to the community (vs long-term resident; adjRR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.34-2.73) were factors associated with persistent viremia. CONCLUSIONS Despite increases in durable VL suppression during roll out of UTT in hyperendemic communities, a substantial fraction of the population, whose risk profile tended to be younger, male, and mobile, remained persistently viremic.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kate Grabowski
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Eshan U Patel
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Victor Ssempijja
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Clinical Monitoring Research Program Directorate, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Joseph Ssekasanvu
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Ronald H Gray
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - David M Serwadda
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Oliver Laeyendecker
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Maria J Wawer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Larry W Chang
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas C Quinn
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Aaron A R Tobian
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Steven J Reynolds
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Laboratory of Immunoregulation, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Watt MH, Minja L, Knettel BA, Mwamba RN, Osaki H, Ngocho JS, Kisigo GA, Renju J, Vissoci JRN, Sao SS, Mmbaga BT. Pilot Outcomes of Maisha: An HIV Stigma Reduction Intervention Developed for Antenatal Care in Tanzania. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:1171-1184. [PMID: 33180253 PMCID: PMC7979435 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
HIV stigma is a persistent barrier to curbing the spread of HIV and improving quality of life for people living with HIV. We developed and pilot tested Maisha, an HIV stigma reduction intervention in antenatal care (ANC) with two objectives: 1) among individuals living with HIV, reduce internalized and anticipated HIV stigma, with subsequent improvements in HIV care engagement, and 2) among individuals who are HIV-seronegative, reduce HIV stigmatizing attitudes. We enrolled and baselined 1039 women and 492 male partners presenting to a first ANC appointment and randomized them to standard of care or the Maisha intervention. All women living with HIV (WLHIV) and a subset of HIV-negative participants completed a 3-month follow-up assessment. Participation in the three Maisha sessions was high (99.6%, 92.8%, 89.3%), and nearly all participants noted satisfaction with the intervention content (99.8%) and counselor (99.8%). Among 55 WLHIV, care engagement outcomes did not differ by condition. Among 293 HIV-negative participants, Maisha participants had significantly greater reductions in the moral judgment sub-scale of the stigma attitudes measure (p < .001), but not the social distancing subscale. The ANC setting, where women and their partners are routinely tested for HIV, is an ideal venue for addressing HIV stigma. The Maisha intervention was feasible and acceptable, and had an impact on HIV stigma attitudes. A full trial is needed to examine impacts on HIV outcomes; modifications to the intervention should be considered to reduce social alienation of PLWH.
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Nyondo-Mipando AL, Kapesa LS, Salimu S, Kazuma T, Mwapasa V. "Dispense antiretrovirals daily!" restructuring the delivery of HIV services to optimize antiretroviral initiation among men in Malawi. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247409. [PMID: 33617561 PMCID: PMC7899340 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gender disparities exist in the scale-up and uptake of HIV services with men being disproportionately under-represented in the services. In Eastern and Southern Africa, of the people living with HIV infection, more adult women than men were on treatment highlighting the disparities in HIV services. Delayed initiation of antiretroviral treatment creates a missed opportunity to prevent transmission of HIV while increasing HIV and AIDS-associated morbidity and mortality. The main objective of this study was to assess the strategies that men prefer for Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) initiation in Blantyre, Malawi. METHODS This was a qualitative study conducted in 7 Health facilities in Blantyre from January to July 2017. We selected participants following purposive sampling. We conducted 20 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with men of different HIV statuses, 17 interviews with health care workers (HCWs), and 14 focus group discussions (FGDs) among men of varying HIV statuses. We digitally recorded all the data, transcribed verbatim, managed using NVivo, and analysed it thematically. RESULTS Restructuring the delivery of antiretroviral (ARVs) treatment and conduct of ART clinics is key to optimizing early initiation of treatment among heterosexual men in Blantyre. The areas requiring restructuring included: Clinic days by offering ARVs daily; Clinic hours to accommodate schedules of men; Clinic layout and flow that preserves privacy and establishment of male-specific clinics; ARV dispensing procedures where clients receive more pills to last them longer than 3 months. Additionally there is need to improve the packaging of ARVs, invent ARVs with less dosing frequency, and dispense ARVs from the main pharmacy. It was further suggested that the test-and-treat strategy be implemented with fidelity and revising the content in counseling sessions with an emphasis on the benefits of ARVs. CONCLUSION The success in ART initiation among men will require a restructuring of the current ART services to make them accessible and available for men to initiate treatment. The inclusion of people-centered approaches will ensure that individual preferences are incorporated into the initiation of ARVs. The type, frequency, distribution, and packaging of ARVs should be aligned with other medicines readily available within a health facility to minimize stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alinane Linda Nyondo-Mipando
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Leticia Suwedi Kapesa
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Sangwani Salimu
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Thokozani Kazuma
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Victor Mwapasa
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
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Transport Poverty with Special Reference to Sustainability: A Systematic Review of the Literature. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13031451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work is to analyse the state of the art of scientific research related to transport poverty with special reference to sustainability and to identify new research needs. To this end, a methodology has been used in line with the objective set out, choosing the systematic review of the literature as the most suitable method. The results show that transport poverty is an under-exploited issue and is not well articulated by researchers, and there are great differences between the different areas of knowledge studied. The subjects related to health and medicine have more publications, almost 58%, with the rest distributed among 11 different subjects. Of the works analysed, only 26.69% refer to the topic of sustainability, and therefore this is a branch which is little studied in the literature in this field. Another relevant finding is that all the articles analysed highlight the vulnerability and inequality of the groups affected by transport poverty, with the elderly being the least studied in the research work.
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Mwangwa F, Getahun M, Itiakorit H, Jain V, Ayieko J, Owino L, Akatukwasa C, Maeri I, Koss CA, Chamie G, Clark TD, Kabami J, Atukunda M, Kwarisiima D, Sang N, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Petersen ML, Cohen CR, Charlebois ED, Havlir DV, Camlin CS. Provider and Patient Perspectives of Rapid ART Initiation and Streamlined HIV Care: Qualitative Insights From Eastern African Communities. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 20:23259582211053518. [PMID: 34841945 PMCID: PMC8641109 DOI: 10.1177/23259582211053518] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sustainable East Africa Research in Community Health (SEARCH), a universal test and treat (UTT) trial, implemented 'Streamlined Care'-a multicomponent strategy including rapid linkage to care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) start, 3-monthly refills, viral load counseling, and accessible, patient-centered care provision. To understand patient and provider experiences of Streamlined Care to inform future care innovations, we conducted in-depth interviews with patients (n = 18) and providers (n = 28) at baseline (2014) and follow-up (2015) (n = 17 patients; n = 21 providers). Audio recordings were transcribed, translated, and deductively and inductively coded. Streamlined Care helped to decongest clinic spaces and de-stigmatize human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care. Patients credited the individualized counselling, provider-assisted HIV status disclosure, and providers' knowledge of patient's drug schedules, availability, and phone call reminders for their care engagement. However, for some, denial (repeated testing to disprove HIV+ results), feeling healthy, limited understanding of the benefits of early ART, and anticipated side-effects, and mistrust of researchers hindered rapid ART initiation. Patients' short and long-term mobility proved challenging for both patients and providers. Providers viewed viral load counselling as a powerful tool to convince otherwise healthy and high-CD4 patients to initiate ART. Patient-centered HIV care models should build on the successes of Streamlined Care, while addressing persistent barriers.#NCT01864683-https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01864603.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vivek Jain
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Gabriel Chamie
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Norton Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Carol S. Camlin
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Moges NA, Adesina OA, Okunlola MA, Berhane Y. Barriers and Facilitators of Same-Day Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among People Newly Diagnosed with HIV in Ethiopia: Qualitative Study Using the Transtheoretical Model of Behavioral Change. J Multidiscip Healthc 2020; 13:1801-1815. [PMID: 33293823 PMCID: PMC7719330 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s282116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose HIV test and treat approach is currently a strategy used as a part of the prevention and control program in Ethiopia. The strategy adopts initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the same-day as HIV diagnosis or in the next visit. However, there is little evidence on barriers and facilitators of same-day (ART) initiation in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators of same-day (ART) initiation in the northwest Ethiopia. Patients and Methods A qualitative study was conducted in East Gojjam Zone in northwest Ethiopia. Purposively selected HIV patients, healthcare workers, and treatment assistants participated in the qualitative study. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs). Coding was done via ATLAS.ti software thematically. The interviews and FGDs were conducted in Amharic (local language) and then transcribed verbatim and translated into English. Coding was done via ATLAS.ti software. The thematic analysis approach was employed using the constructs of the transtheoretical behavioral model (TTM) to show stages of change that newly HIV diagnosed experienced in the course of preparation for treatment initiation. Results A total of 19 patients, 12 treatment supporters, and 9 healthcare workers participated in the qualitative study. Shocking due to the test result, having no symptoms, mistrust of the test result, and seeking spiritual healing from holy water were the major barriers to start ART in the same-day of diagnosis or within the next visit. Conclusion During HIV diagnosis, more barriers were observed in the early stages, while treatment facilitators emerged in the later stages of TTM. The TTM model can be applied to characterize where participants were in the stages of change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurilign Abebe Moges
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.,Pan African University, Life and Earth Sciences Including Health and Agriculture Institute (PAULESI), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olubukola Adeponle Adesina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Micheal A Okunlola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Department of Epidemiology, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Moges NA, Adesina OA, Okunlola MA, Berhane Y. Same-day antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation and associated factors among HIV positive people in Northwest Ethiopia: baseline characteristics of prospective cohort. Arch Public Health 2020; 78:87. [PMID: 32983450 PMCID: PMC7510057 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-020-00473-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite a well-established fact that same-day or rapid ART initiation after a positive HIV test result is vital for faster viral suppression and for prevention of further sexual transmissions of HIV, there is a paucity of evidence on the uptake of same-day ART initiation among newly HIV diagnosed people in Northwest, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 1st, 2018 and July 30, 2019. About 759 newly HIV diagnosed adults were recruited from 24 health facilities. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were entered using EPI-Data and exported to SPSS and STATA software for further analysis. Bivariate logistic regression was used to select candidate variables at p-value less than 0.25 for multivariate logistic regression. Then adjusted odds ratio with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) at p-value of less than 0.05 was used to declare the statistical associations between the dependent and independent variables. Result Magnitude of same-day ART initiation was 318 (41.90%) [(95% CI, 38.2–45.20%)]. Factors associated with same-day ART initiation were: Patients resided in West Gojjam Zone were 2.04 times more likely to initiate same-day ART compared to those in Bahir Dar city administration [AOR = 2.04 (1.04–3.97)], patients in the health centers were 3.06 times more likely to initiate same-day ART initiation compared to those in the hospitals [AOR = 3.06 (1.90–4.92)] and Patients who were diagnosed their HIV status at the same health facility where they linked for ART were 2.16 times more likely to initiate ART at the same-day of diagnosis [AOR = 2.16 (91.24–3.74)]. Moreover, patients with no opportunistic infection [AOR = 2.08 (1.04–4.19)] and pregnant women [AOR = 3.97 (1.78–8.87)] were more likely to initiate ART same-day of diagnosis. Conclusions Same-day ART initiation was low among HIV patients in Ethiopia. Patients attending their treatment at hospitals and those from big city (Bahir Dar) were less likely to initiate same-day ART. Clinical factors such as having opportunistic infections and non-pregnancy status affected the immediate initiation of treatment. HIV positive people who seek care in hospitals and those tested HIV positive from another health facilities in which they did not intend to continue their ART follow-up care need special attention.
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Iwuji C, Chimukuche RS, Zuma T, Plazy M, Larmarange J, Orne-Gliemann J, Siedner M, Shahmanesh M, Seeley J. Test but not treat: Community members' experiences with barriers and facilitators to universal antiretroviral therapy uptake in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239513. [PMID: 32970730 PMCID: PMC7514038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionised the care of HIV-positive individuals resulting in marked decreases in morbidity and mortality, and markedly reduced transmission to sexual partners. However, these benefits can only be realised if individuals are aware of their HIV-positive status, initiated and retained on suppressive lifelong ART. Framed using the socio-ecological model, the present study explores factors contributing to poor ART uptake among community members despite high acceptance of HIV-testing within a Treatment as Prevention (TasP) trial. In this paper we identify barriers and facilitators to treatment across different levels of the socio-ecological framework covering individual, community and health system components. Methods This research was embedded within a cluster-randomised trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01509508) of HIV treatment as Prevention in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were collected between January 2013 and July 2014 from resident community members. Ten participants contributed to repeat in-depth interviews whilst 42 participants took part in repeat focus group discussions. Data from individual interviews and focus group discussions were triangulated using community walks to give insights into community members’ perception of the barriers and facilitators of ART uptake. We used thematic analysis guided by a socio-ecological framework to analyse participants’ narratives from both individual interviews and focus group discussions. Results Barriers and facilitators operating at the individual, community and health system levels influence ART uptake. Stigma was an over-arching barrier, across all three levels and expressed variably as fear of HIV disclosure, concerns about segregated HIV clinical services and negative community religious perceptions. Other barriers were individual (substance misuse, fear of ART side effects), community (alternative health beliefs). Facilitators cited by participants included individual (expectations of improved health and longer life expectancy following ART, single tablet regimens), community (availability of ART in the community through mobile trial facilities) and health system factors (fast and efficient service provided by friendly staff). Discussion We identified multiple barriers to achieving universal ART uptake. To enhance uptake in HIV care services, and achieve the full benefits of ART requires interventions that tackle persistent HIV stigma, and offer people with HIV respectful, convenient and efficient services. These interventions require evaluation in appropriately designed studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collins Iwuji
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, United Kingdom
- Africa Health Research Institute, Berea, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Thembelihle Zuma
- Africa Health Research Institute, Berea, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Melanie Plazy
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Bordeaux, France
| | - Joseph Larmarange
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement(IRD), Centre Population et Développement (Ceped), Paris, France
| | - Joanna Orne-Gliemann
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Bordeaux, France
| | - Mark Siedner
- Africa Health Research Institute, Berea, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Africa Health Research Institute, Berea, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Africa Health Research Institute, Berea, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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The People Living with HIV Stigma Index 2.0: generating critical evidence for change worldwide. AIDS 2020; 34 Suppl 1:S5-S18. [PMID: 32881790 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) To describe the process of updating the People Living with HIV (PLHIV) Stigma Index (Stigma Index) to reflect current global treatment guidelines and to better measure intersecting stigmas and resilience. DESIGN Through an iterative process driven by PLHIV, the Stigma Index was revised, pretested, and formally evaluated in three cross-sectional studies. METHODS Between March and October 2017, 1153 surveys (n = 377, Cameroon; n = 390, Senegal; n = 391, Uganda) were conducted with PLHIV at least 18 years old who had known their status for at least 1 year. PLHIV interviewers administered the survey on tablet computers or mobile phones to a diverse group of purposively sampled respondents recruited through PLHIV networks, community-based organizations, HIV clinics, and snowball sampling. Sixty respondents participated in cognitive interviews (20 per country) to assess if questions were understood as intended, and eight focus groups (Uganda only) assessed relevance of the survey, overall. RESULTS The Stigma Index 2.0 performed well and was relevant to PLHIV in all three countries. HIV-related stigma was experienced by more than one-third of respondents, including in HIV care settings. High rates of stigma experienced by key populations (such as MSM and sex workers) impeded access to HIV services. Many PLHIV also demonstrated resilience per the new PLHIV Resilience Scale. CONCLUSION The Stigma Index 2.0 is now more relevant to the current context of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and response. Results will be critical for addressing gaps in program design and policies that must be overcome to support PLHIV engaging in services, adhering to antiretroviral therapy, being virally suppressed, and leading healthy, stigma-free lives.
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Dovel K, Dworkin SL, Cornell M, Coates TJ, Yeatman S. Gendered health institutions: examining the organization of health services and men's use of HIV testing in Malawi. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 2:e25517. [PMID: 32589346 PMCID: PMC7319160 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men in sub-Saharan Africa are less likely to use HIV testing services than their female counterparts. Norms of masculinity are frequently cited as the main barrier to men's use of HIV testing services, but very little is known about how health institutions are organized to facilitate or impede men's care. We examined the organization of health institutions in Malawi, and implications for men's use of HIV testing services. METHODS A mixed methods ethnography was conducted in Malawi between October 2013 and September 2014. National Ministry of Health guidelines from 2012 to 2014 were analysed, counting the frequency of recommended preventative services by sex. In-depth interviews were conducted with 18 healthcare workers and 11 national key informants (29 total). Five rural health facilities participated in direct observation and 52 observational journals were completed to document the structure and implementation of HIV services within local facilities. All data were analysed using the theory of gendered organization. Findings were grouped into one of the three theoretical levels of organization: (1) organizational policy; (2) organizational practice; and (3) structure of gendered expectations. RESULTS Health institutions were gendered across three levels. Organizational policy: National guidelines omitted young and adult men's health during reproductive years (176-433 recommended visits for women vs. 32 visits for men). Health education strategies focused on reproductive and child health services, with little education strategies targeting men. Organizational practice: HIV testing was primarily offered during reproductive and child health services and located near female-focused departments within health facilities. As these departments were women's spaces, others could easily tell that men were using HIV services. Structure of gendered expectations: Clients who successfully accessed HIV testing services were perceived as exemplifying characteristics that were traditionally considered feminine: compliance (obeying instructions without explanation); deference (respecting providers regardless of provider behaviour); and patience ("waiting like a woman"). CONCLUSIONS Health institutions in Malawi were organized in ways that created substantial, multilevel barriers to men's HIV testing and reinforced perceptions of absent, difficult men. Future research should prioritize a gendered organization framework to understand and address the complex realities of men's constrained access to HIV services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Dovel
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCAUSA
- Partners in HopeLilongweAngelesMalawi
| | - Shari L Dworkin
- School of Nursing and Health StudiesUniversity of Washington BothellBothellWAUSA
| | - Morna Cornell
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & ResearchSchool of Public Health & Family MedicineUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Thomas J. Coates
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Sara Yeatman
- Department of Health and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of Colorado DenverDenverCOUSA
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Abstract
: Addressing social determinants of health (SDH) has far greater potential to improve the real-world effectiveness of HIV treatment than expensive, incremental changes in antiretroviral therapy. The ADVANCE study demonstrates that SDH is more impactful than medication regimen on health outcomes. Younger patients and unemployed patients experience heightened precarity, which can have pervasive effects on adherence and suppression. Enhanced adherence counselling can help socioeconomically precarious patients maintain suppression, but in order to improve treatment effectiveness and population health, we should move beyond the short-term solution of helping patients 'cope' with insecurity toward tackling the underlying factors that lead to precarity. Data on intention-to-treat populations are critical to this effort, yet medical researchers and publications continue to obscure the influence of SDH by focusing on per-protocol populations.
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Eligibility for differentiated models of HIV treatment service delivery: an estimate from Malawi and Zambia. AIDS 2020; 34:475-479. [PMID: 31764076 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the proportion of HIV-positive clients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) who meet stability criteria for differentiated service delivery (DSD) models. We report the proportion of ART clients meeting stability criteria as part of screening for a randomized trial of multimonth dispensing in Malawi and Zambia. METHODS For a DSD trial now underway, we screened HIV-positive clients aged at least 18 years presenting for HIV treatment in 30 adult ART clinics in Malawi and Zambia to determine eligibility for DSD. Stability was defined as on first-line ART (efavirenz/tenofovir/lamivudine) for at least 6 months, no ART side effects, no toxicity or infectious complications, no noncommunicable diseases being treated in ART clinic, no lapses in ART adherence in the prior 6 months (>30 days without taking ART), and if female, not pregnant or breastfeeding. RESULTS In total, 3465 adult ART clients were approached between 10 May 2017 and 30 April 2018 (Malawi: 1680; Zambia: 1785). Of the 2938 who answered screening questions (Malawi: 1527; Zambia: 1411), 2173 (73.5%) met criteria for DSD eligibility (Malawi: 72.8%; Zambia: 74.3%). The most common reasons for ineligibility were being on ART less than 6 months (9.6%) and a regimen other than standard first-line (7.9%). CONCLUSION Approximately three-quarters of all adult clients presenting at ART clinics in Malawi and Zambia were eligible for DSD using a typical definition of stability. High uptake of DSD models by eligible clients would have a major impact on the infrastructure and the allocation of HIV treatment resources.
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Critical design criteria for engineering a nanoparticulate HIV-1 vaccine. J Control Release 2019; 317:322-335. [PMID: 31786187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2019.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Inducing a long-lasting as well as broad and potent immune response by generating broadly neutralizing antibodies is a major goal and at the same time the main challenge of preventive HIV-1 vaccine design. Immunization with soluble, stabilized and native-like envelope (Env) glycoprotein so far only led to low neutralization breadth and displayed low immunogenicity. A promising approach to generate a potent immune response is the presentation of Env on the surface of nanoparticles. In this review, we will focus on two key processes essential for the induction of immune response that can be addressed by specific features of nanoparticulate carriers: first, the trafficking to and within distinct compartments of the lymph node, and second, the use of multivalent Env display allowing for high avidity interactions. To optimize these pivotal steps critical design criteria should be considered for the presentation of Env on nanoparticles. These include an optimal particle size below 100 nm, distances between two adjacent Env antigens of approximately 10-15 nm, an appropriate orientation of Env, and finally, the stability of both the Env attachment and the nanoparticle platform. Hence, an interdisciplinary approach that combines a suitable delivery system and a straightforward presentation of the Env antigen may have the potential to drive the immune response towards increased breadth and potency.
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Chamie G, Kamya MR, Petersen ML, Havlir DV. Reaching 90-90-90 in rural communities in East Africa: lessons from the Sustainable East Africa Research in Community Health Trial. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2019; 14:449-454. [PMID: 31589172 PMCID: PMC6798741 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There is an urgent need to understand new population-level approaches that achieve high levels of treatment and viral suppression for persons living with HIV. RECENT FINDINGS The SEARCH Universal test and treat (UTT) trial conducted in Kenya and Uganda aimed to reduce HIV incidence and improve community health. SEARCH offered HIV and multidisease testing at health fairs followed by home testing for nonparticipants in 32 communities, each with approximately 10 000 persons. In the 16 intervention communities, UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets were achieved within 3 years, reaching '92-95-90' and 79% population-level viral suppression. HIV incidence declined by 32% between year 1 and 3 of follow-up. Key principles of SEARCH's approach included community engagement, integration of HIV with multidisease services, rapid ART start upon HIV diagnosis, and patient-centered, streamlined care. SEARCH's community health approach also reduced HIV mortality, annual TB incidence, and uncontrolled hypertension compared with a country standard of care. Population-level viral suppression increased beyond the UNAIDS 73% target in women and men and reached levels well above recent country estimates across much of sub-Saharan Africa. SUMMARY SEARCH provides one example of how to rapidly surpass UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets while addressing community health on the path to HIV epidemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maya L. Petersen
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Fuente-Soro L, Iniesta C, López-Varela E, Cuna M, Guilaze R, Maixenchs M, Bernardo EL, Augusto O, Gonzalez R, Couto A, Munguambe K, Naniche D. Tipping the balance towards long-term retention in the HIV care cascade: A mixed methods study in southern Mozambique. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222028. [PMID: 31560689 PMCID: PMC6764678 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The implementation of quality HIV control programs is crucial for the achievement of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets and to motivate people living with HIV (PLWHIV) to link and remain in HIV-care. The aim of this mixed method cross-sectional study was to estimate the linkage and long-term retention in care of PLWHIV and to identify factors potentially interfering along the HIV-care continuum in southern Mozambique. Methods A home-based semi-structured interview was conducted in 2015 to explore barriers and facilitators to the HIV-care cascade among individuals that had been newly HIV-diagnosed in community testing campaigns in 2010 or 2012. Linkage and long-term retention were estimated retrospectively through client self-reports and clinical records. Cohen's Kappa coefficient was calculated to measure the agreement between participant self-reported and documented cascade outcomes. Results Among the 112 interviewed participants, 24 (21.4%) did not disclose their HIV-positive serostatus to the interviewer. While 84 (75.0%) self-reported having enrolled in care, only 69 (61.6%) reported still being in-care 3–5 years after diagnosis of which 17.4% reported having disengaged and re-engaged. An important factor affecting optimal continuum in HIV-care was the impact of the fear-based authoritarian relationship between the health system and the patient that could act as both driver and barrier. Conclusion Special attention should be given to quantify and understand repeated cycles of patient disengagement and re-engagement in HIV-care. Strategies to improve the relationship between the health system and patients are still needed in order to optimally engage PLWHIV for long-term periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fuente-Soro
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Carlos Iniesta
- Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa López-Varela
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mauro Cuna
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Rui Guilaze
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Maria Maixenchs
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Edson Luis Bernardo
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Direcção Distrital em Saúde, Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Orvalho Augusto
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Raquel Gonzalez
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aleny Couto
- National STI-HIV/AIDS Program, Ministry of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Khatia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- Faculty of Medicine, Eduardo Mondlane University, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Denise Naniche
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Riley ED, Vittinghoff E, Koss CA, Christopoulos KA, Clemenzi-Allen A, Dilworth SE, Carrico AW. Housing First: Unsuppressed Viral Load Among Women Living with HIV in San Francisco. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2326-2336. [PMID: 31324996 PMCID: PMC7478361 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02601-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
While poverty is an established barrier to achieving success at each step of the HIV care continuum, less is known about specific aspects of poverty and how they overlap with behavior in exceptionally low-income individuals who live in well-resourced areas. We considered unsuppressed viral load over 3 years among women living with HIV in San Francisco who used homeless shelters, low-income hotels and free meal programs. One-hundred twenty study participants were followed; 60% had > 1 unsuppressed viral load and 19% were unsuppressed at every visit. Across six-month intervals, the odds of unsuppressed viral load were 11% higher for every 10 nights spent sleeping on the street [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.20]; 16% higher for every 10 nights spent sleeping in a shelter (AOR/10 nights 1.16, 95% CI 1.06-1.27); 4% higher for every 10 nights spent sleeping in a single-room occupancy hotel (AOR/10 nights 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.07); and over threefold higher among women who experienced any recent incarceration (AOR 3.56, 95% CI 1.84-6.86). Violence and recent use of outpatient health care did not significantly predict viral suppression in adjusted analysis. While strategies to promote retention in care are important for vulnerable persons living with HIV, they are insufficient to ensure sustained viral suppression in low-income women experiencing homelessness and incarceration. Results presented here in combination with prior research linking incarceration to homelessness among women indicate that tailored interventions, which not only consider but prioritize affordable housing, are critical to achieving sustained viral suppression in low-income women living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise D Riley
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave., UCSF Mailbox 0874, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0874, USA.
| | - Eric Vittinghoff
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Catherine A Koss
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave., UCSF Mailbox 0874, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0874, USA
| | - Katerina A Christopoulos
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave., UCSF Mailbox 0874, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0874, USA
| | - Angelo Clemenzi-Allen
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Ave., UCSF Mailbox 0874, San Francisco, CA, 94143-0874, USA
| | - Samantha E Dilworth
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Galiwango RM, Bagaya B, Mpendo J, Joag V, Okech B, Nanvubya A, Ssetaala A, Muwanga M, Kaul R. Protocol for a randomized clinical trial exploring the effect of antimicrobial agents on the penile microbiota, immunology and HIV susceptibility of Ugandan men. Trials 2019; 20:443. [PMID: 31324206 PMCID: PMC6642556 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3545-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The foreskin is the main site of HIV acquisition in a heterosexual uncircumcised man, but many men in endemic countries are reluctant to undergo penile circumcision (PC). Observational studies suggest that proinflammatory anaerobic bacteria are enriched on the uncircumcised penis, where they may enhance HIV susceptibility through increased foreskin inflammatory cytokines and the recruitment of HIV-susceptible CD4+ target cells. This trial will examine the impact of systemic and topical antimicrobials on ex vivo foreskin HIV susceptibility. Methods/design This randomized, open-label clinical trial will randomize 125 HIV-negative Ugandan men requesting voluntary PC to one of five arms (n = 25 each). The control group will receive immediate PC, while the four intervention groups will defer PC for 1 month and be provided in the interim with either oral tinidazole, penile topical metronidazole, topical clindamycin, or topical hydrogen peroxide. The impact of these interventions on HIV entry into foreskin-derived CD4+ T cells will be quantified ex vivo at the time of PC using a clade A, R5 tropic HIV pseudovirus assay (primary endpoint); secondary endpoints include the impact of antimicrobials on immune parameters and the microbiota of the participant’s penis and of the vagina of their female partner (if applicable), assessed by multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and 16S rRNA sequencing. Discussion There is a critical need to develop acceptable, simple, and effective means of HIV prevention in men unwilling to undergo PC. This trial will provide insight into the causative role of the foreskin microbiota on HIV susceptibility, and the impact of simple microbiota-focused clinical interventions. This may pave the way for future clinical trials using low-cost, nonsurgical intervention(s) to reduce HIV risk in uncircumcised heterosexual men. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03412071. Retrospectively registered on 26 January 2018. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-019-3545-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald M Galiwango
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus Medical Sciences Building #6356 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernard Bagaya
- HIV Vaccine Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute-International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Microbiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Mpendo
- HIV Vaccine Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute-International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Vineet Joag
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus Medical Sciences Building #6356 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brenda Okech
- HIV Vaccine Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute-International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Annet Nanvubya
- HIV Vaccine Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute-International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ali Ssetaala
- HIV Vaccine Program, Uganda Virus Research Institute-International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Rupert Kaul
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, St. George Campus Medical Sciences Building #6356 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Strategies for engaging men in HIV services. Lancet HIV 2019; 6:e191-e200. [PMID: 30777726 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(19)30032-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The importance of men in the global HIV response is increasingly recognised. In most settings, men are less engaged in HIV services and have worse health outcomes than women. The multiple gender, social, economic, political, and institutional factors behind these patterns are well documented. More recently, researchers have been reporting evidence on strategies aimed at improving the engagement of men in HIV services. Several promising approaches exist, including community-based outreach programmes, gender-transformative interventions to shift gender norms and practices, and the development of more responsive, male-friendly health services. Challenges remain, however, in terms of cost and sustainability, intersecting inequalities like race and class, and the difficulty of changing community-level gender norms. Future research should focus on developing theory-informed interventions and evaluations, on improving the understanding of specific subpopulations of men, and on broadening the evidence base beyond the few countries that produce most research in this field.
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Haberer JE, Bwana BM, Orrell C, Asiimwe S, Amanyire G, Musinguzi N, Siedner MJ, Matthews LT, Tsai AC, Katz IT, Bell K, Kembabazi A, Mugisha S, Kibirige V, Cross A, Kelly N, Hedt‐Gauthier B, Bangsberg DR. ART adherence and viral suppression are high among most non-pregnant individuals with early-stage, asymptomatic HIV infection: an observational study from Uganda and South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25232. [PMID: 30746898 PMCID: PMC6371013 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The success of universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) access and aspirations for an AIDS-free generation depend on high adherence in individuals initiating ART during early-stage HIV infection; however, adherence may be difficult in the absence of illness and associated support. METHODS From March 2015 to October 2017, we prospectively observed three groups initiating ART in routine care in Uganda and South Africa: men and non-pregnant women with early-stage HIV infection (CD4 > 350 cells/μL), pregnant women with early-stage HIV infection and men and non-pregnant women with late-stage HIV infection (CD4 < 200 cells/μL). Socio-behavioural questionnaires were administered and viral loads were performed at 0, 6 and 12 months. Adherence was monitored electronically. RESULTS Adherence data were available for 869 participants: 322 (37%) early/non-pregnant, 199 (23%) early/pregnant and 348 (40%) late/non-pregnant participants. In Uganda, median adherence was 89% (interquartile range 74 to 96) and viral suppression was 90% at 12 months; neither differed among groups (p > 0.72). In South Africa, median adherence was higher in early/non-pregnant versus early/pregnant or late/non-pregnant participants (76%, 37%, 52%; p < 0.001), with similar trends in viral suppression (86%, 51%, 79%; p < 0.001). Among early/non-pregnant individuals in Uganda, adherence was higher with increasing age and lower with structural barriers; whereas in South Africa, adherence was higher with regular income, higher perceived stigma and use of other medications, but lower with maladaptive coping and cigarette smoking. DISCUSSION ART adherence among non-pregnant individuals with early-stage infection is as high or higher than with late-stage initiation, supporting universal access to ART. Challenges remain for some pregnant women and individuals with late-stage infection in South Africa and highlight the need for differentiated care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Bosco M Bwana
- Mbarara University of Science and TechnologyMbararaUganda
- Global Health CollaborativeMbararaUganda
| | - Catherine Orrell
- Desmond Tutu HIV FoundationCape TownSouth Africa
- University of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Stephen Asiimwe
- Global Health CollaborativeMbararaUganda
- Kabwohe Clinical Research CentreKabwoheUganda
| | - Gideon Amanyire
- Global Health CollaborativeMbararaUganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS ProgramKampalaUganda
- Africa Health Research InstituteDurbanSouth Africa
| | | | - Mark J Siedner
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Africa Health Research InstituteDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Lynn T Matthews
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
- Brigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA
| | - Kathleen Bell
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
| | | | | | | | - Anna Cross
- Desmond Tutu HIV FoundationCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Nicola Kelly
- Desmond Tutu HIV FoundationCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Bethany Hedt‐Gauthier
- Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global HealthBostonMAUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - David R Bangsberg
- Oregon Health & Science University‐Portland State University School of Public HealthPortlandORUSA
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