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Audet CM, Graves E, Shepherd BE, Prigmore HL, Brooks HL, Emílio A, Matino A, Paulo P, Diemer MA, Frisby M, Sack DE, Aboobacar A, Barreto E, Van Rompaey S, De Schacht C. Partner-Based HIV Treatment for Seroconcordant Couples Attending Antenatal and Postnatal Care in Rural Mozambique: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:259-269. [PMID: 38905476 PMCID: PMC11196005 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is evidence that a supportive male partner facilitates maternal HIV testing during pregnancy, increases maternal antiretroviral therapy initiation and adherence, and increases HIV-free infant survival. Most male partner engagement clinical strategies have focused on increasing uptake of couple-based HIV testing and counseling. We delivered a couple-based care and treatment intervention to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence in expectant couples living with HIV. METHODS We implemented a cluster randomized controlled trial for seroconcordant couples living with HIV, comparing retention (using a patient's medication possession ratio) in HIV care for a couple-based care and treatment intervention vs. standard of care services in rural Mozambique. The intervention included couple-based treatment, couple-based education and skills building, and couple-peer educator support. RESULTS We recruited 1080 couples to participate in the study. Using a linear mixed effect model with a random effect for clinic, the intervention had no impact on the medication possession ratio among women at 12 months. However, the intervention increased men's medication ratio by 8.77%. Our unadjusted logistic regression model found the odds of an infant seroconverting in the intervention group was 30% less than in the control group, but the results were not statistically significant. DISCUSSION Our study found no difference in maternal outcomes by study arm, but our intervention resulted in an improved medication possession ratio among male partners. We provide a community/clinic-based treatment framework that can improve outcomes among male partners. Further work needs to be done to improve social support for pregnant women and to facilitate prevention of vertical transmission to infants among couples living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Audet
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN
| | - Erin Graves
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN
| | - Bryan E Shepherd
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Heather L Prigmore
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Hannah L Brooks
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN
| | | | | | - Paula Paulo
- Friends in Global Health, Quelimane, Mozambique
| | | | - Michael Frisby
- Department of Educational Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA; and
| | - Daniel E Sack
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN
| | - Arifo Aboobacar
- Provincial Health Directorate of Zambézia, Quelimane, Mozambique
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Auma I, Nabaweesi D, Orech S, Alege JB, Komakech A. Determinants of male involvement in antenatal care at Palabek Refugee Settlement, Lamwo district, Northern Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:325. [PMID: 37149584 PMCID: PMC10164295 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05617-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2014, Uganda launched the National Male Involvement Strategy in Maternal and Child Health. In 2020, the District Health Management Information System report for Lamwo district, where Palabek Refugee Settlement is located, indicated a 10% male involvement in antenatal care (ANC) at the settlement. We investigated determinants of male involvement in ANC in Palabek Refugee Settlement to inform programs on improvement of male involvement in ANC in a refugee setting. METHODOLOGY We conducted a community-based cross-sectional analytical study among a proportionate sample of mothers in Palabek Refugee Settlement from October-December 2021. Using a standardized questionnaire, we collected information on demographics and the constructs of the socio-ecological model where consent was given. We summarized data in tables and figures. We used Pearson chi-square test to determine significance of independent variables at bivariate level. A multivariable logistic regression model was run for all variables found significant at bivariate analysis to determine association between the different independent variables and male involvement in ANC. RESULTS We interviewed 423 mothers. The mean age of their male partners was 31 years, SD 7. 81% (343/423) of male partners had formal education, with 13% (55/423) having a source of income and 61% (257/423) having access to ANC information during their pregnancy. The level of male involvement in ANC in Palabek Refugee Settlement was 39% (164/423). Male involvement in ANC was positively associated with access to information on ANC (AOR 3.0; 95%Cl: 1.7-5.4) and frequent couple discussion on ANC (AOR 10.1; 95%Cl: 5.6-18.0). However, it was negatively associated with distance ≥ 3 km to the health facility (AOR 0.6 ;95%Cl: 0.4-1.0). CONCLUSIONS Approximately one in three male partners in Palabek Refugee Settlement were involved in ANC. Male partners who had access to information during ANC and those who had frequent discussions were more likely to get involved in ANC. Men who lived ≥ 3 km from the health facility were less likely to be involved in ANC. We recommend intensified awareness creation on importance of male involvement in ANC and implementation of integrated community outreaches to reduce distance to the health facility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Auma
- Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | | | - Allan Komakech
- Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
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Audet CM, Sack DE, Ndlovu GH, Morkel C, Harris J, Wagner RG, Seabi TM. Women want male partner engagement in antenatal care services: A qualitative study of pregnant women from rural South Africa. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283789. [PMID: 37011063 PMCID: PMC10069782 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence strongly shows that a supportive, involved male partner facilitates maternal HIV testing during pregnancy, increases maternal antiretroviral (ART) adherence and increases HIV-free infant survival. Partner engagement in antenatal care (ANC) is influential; however, the most effective strategy to engage male partners is currently unknown. Engaging pregnant women to understand whether male partner involvement is welcome in ANC, what this involvement entails and how best to invite their partner is an important first step in determining how best to engage male partners. METHODS We interviewed 36 pregnant women receiving ANC services at a district hospital in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their current relationship, the type of partner support they receive, whether they would like their male partner to be involved in their ANC, and how best to invite their male partner to their appointments. We conducted a thematic analysis of the qualitative interviews using MAXQDA software. RESULTS Financial, emotional, and physical support were noted as important aspects of support currently provided by male partners, with most pregnant women wanting their partners to engage in ANC services during pregnancy. Preferred engagement strategies included participation in couple-based HIV testing and counseling, regular ANC appointment attendance, and delivery room presence. Women who reported a positive relationship with her partner were more likely to prefer inviting their partner without health facility assistance, while those who reported challenges in their relationship preferred assistance through a letter or community health worker. Pregnant women perceived regular business hours (due to their partner being employed and unable to take off work) and having a partner involved in multiple relationships as barriers in getting their partner to attend ANC services. DISCUSSION Rural South African women, even those in unsatisfactory relationships want their male partners to attend their ANC visits and birth. To make this possible, health facilities will have to tailor male partner engagement outreach strategies to the preferences and needs of the pregnant woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M. Audet
- Vanderbilt Institute of Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Medical Research Council, Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Daniel E. Sack
- Vanderbilt Institute of Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Godfrey H. Ndlovu
- Medical Research Council, Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Caroline Morkel
- Vanderbilt Institute of Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jacob Harris
- Notre Dame University, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Ryan G. Wagner
- Medical Research Council, Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tshegofatso M. Seabi
- Medical Research Council, Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Hampanda KM, Pelowich K, Freeborn K, Graybill LA, Mutale W, Jones KR, Saidi F, Kumwenda A, Kasaro M, Rosenberg NE, Chi BH. Strategies to increase couples HIV testing and counselling in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26075. [PMID: 36929284 PMCID: PMC10020817 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Couple HIV testing and counselling (CHTC) is associated with measurable benefits for HIV prevention and treatment. However, the uptake remains limited in much of sub-Saharan Africa, despite an expanded range of strategies designed to promote access. METHODS Following PRIMSA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review to characterize CHTC uptake strategies. Five databases were searched. Full-text articles were included if they were: conducted in sub-Saharan Africa during the study period (1980-2019), targeted heterosexual couples, reported at least one strategy to promote CHTC and provided a quantifiable measure of CHTC uptake. After the initial and full-text screening, key features of the studies were abstracted and synthesized. RESULTS Of the 6188 unique records found in our search, 365 underwent full-text review with 29 distinct studies included and synthesized. Most studies recruited couples through antenatal care (n = 11) or community venues (n = 8) and used provider-based HIV testing (n = 25). The primary demand creation strategies included home-based CHTC (n = 7); integration of CHTC into clinical settings (n = 4); distribution of HIV self-testing kits (n = 4); verbal or written invitations (n = 4); community recruiters (n = 3); partner tracing (n = 2); relationship counselling (n = 2); financial incentives (n = 1); group education with CHTC coupons (n = 1); and HIV testing at other community venues (n = 1). CHTC uptake ranged from negligible to nearly universal. DISCUSSION We thematically categorized a diverse range of strategies with varying levels of intensity and resources used across sub-Saharan Africa to promote CHTC. Offering CHTC within couples' homes was the most common approach, followed by the integration of CHTC into clinical settings. Due to heterogeneity in study characteristics, we were unable to compare the effectiveness across studies, but several trends were observed, including the high prevalence of CHTC promotion strategies in antenatal settings and the promising effects of home-based CHTC, distribution of HIV self-tests and integration of CHTC into routine health services. Since 2019, an updated literature search found that combining partner notification and secondary distribution of HIV self-test kits may be an additionally effective CHTC strategy. CONCLUSIONS There are many effective, feasible and scalable approaches to promote CHTC that should be considered by national programmes according to local needs, cultural context and available resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M. Hampanda
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
- Center for Global HealthUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Krysta Pelowich
- Center for Global HealthUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Kellie Freeborn
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lauren A. Graybill
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Wilbroad Mutale
- Department of Health PolicySchool of Public HealthUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Katelyn R. Jones
- Department of Health BehaviorGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Andrew Kumwenda
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Margaret Kasaro
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- UNC Global Projects ZambiaLusakaZambia
| | - Nora E. Rosenberg
- Department of Health BehaviorGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Benjamin H. Chi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department of EpidemiologyGillings School of Global Public HealthUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
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Chi BH, Mbori‐Ngacha D, Essajee S, Mofenson LM, Tsiouris F, Mahy M, Luo C. Accelerating progress towards the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV: a narrative review. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25571. [PMID: 32820609 PMCID: PMC7440973 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Findings from biomedical, behavioural and implementation studies provide a rich foundation to guide programmatic efforts for the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT). METHODS We summarized the current evidence base to support policy makers, programme managers, funding agencies and other stakeholders in designing and optimizing PMTCT programmes. We searched the scientific literature for PMTCT interventions in the era of universal antiretroviral therapy for pregnant and breastfeeding women (i.e. 2013 onward). Where evidence was sparse, relevant studies from the general HIV treatment literature or from prior eras of PMTCT programme implementation were also considered. Studies were organized into six categories: HIV prevention services for women, timely access to HIV testing, timely access to ART, programme retention and adherence support, timely engagement in antenatal care and services for infants at highest risk of HIV acquisition. These were mapped to specific missed opportunities identified by the UNAIDS Spectrum model and embedded in UNICEF operational guidance to optimize PMTCT services. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION From May to November 2019, we identified numerous promising, evidence-based strategies that, properly tailored and adopted, could contribute to population reductions in vertical HIV transmission. These spanned the HIV and maternal and child health literature, emphasizing the importance of continued alignment and integration of services. We observed overlap between several intervention domains, suggesting potential for synergies and increased downstream impact. Common themes included integration of facility-based healthcare; decentralization of health services from facilities to communities; and engagement of partners, peers and lay workers for social support. Approaches to ensure early HIV diagnosis and treatment prior to pregnancy would strengthen care across the maternal lifespan and should be promoted in the context of PMTCT. CONCLUSIONS A wide range of effective strategies exist to improve PMTCT access, uptake and retention. Programmes should carefully consider, prioritize and plan those that are most appropriate for the local setting and best address existing gaps in PMTCT health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Chi
- University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNCUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Mary Mahy
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)GenevaSwitzerland
| | - Chewe Luo
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)New YorkNYUSA
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Mergia M, Shegaze M, Ayele G, Andarge E, Yeshitila YG, Wassihun B, Tunje A, Memiah P. Mothers' satisfaction with health extension services and the associated factors in Gamo Goffa zone, Southern Ethiopia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232908. [PMID: 32379820 PMCID: PMC7205287 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing compassionate and respectful maternity services in order to bring satisfaction to service users is one of the health extension services packages in Ethiopia. Though the service utilization and its associated factors have been well documented so far, yet there is a dearth of information on client satisfaction; particularly among rural women who are mostly the target groups of health extension services within the Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess mothers' satisfaction with health extension services and the associated factors in the Gamo Goffa Zone, of Southern Ethiopia. METHODS A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 478 women from February 1st to February 28th of 2018. A pre-tested and interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique by allocating a proportion to each rural kebeles. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify associated factors. Odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval was used to determine the degree of association. Level of statistical significance was set at a p-value of less than 0.05. RESULT The overall proportion of mothers who were satisfied with health extension services was 37.4% with 95% CI (33-44%). Mothers who had good family monthly income [AOR = 4.66 (95% CI: 1.1, 20.6)], whose husbands participated in the health extension program [AOR = 4.02 (95% CI: 2.0, 8.1)], who had recent participation in planning of health extension programs [AOR = 5.75 (95% CI: 2.0, 16.5)], who were recognized as a model family [AOR = 2.23 (95% CI: 1.1, 4.6)] had higher odds of satisfaction with health extension services. CONCLUSION Satisfaction with the health extension services was low among women in the study area. A better household monthly income, women's and their husbands' participation in health extension services and being a member of a model family were positively associated with their satisfaction. Interventions to enhance women's satisfaction in the health extension service need to focus on household-based involvement of them and their husbands in planning and implementing the services. Likewise, expansion of experiences of model families in the community would raise satisfaction levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Mergia
- Gamo Zone Health Department, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia, Ethiopia
| | - Mulugeta Shegaze
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Gistane Ayele
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Eshetu Andarge
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | | | - Biresaw Wassihun
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abayneh Tunje
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Peter Memiah
- Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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