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Chen F, Li P, Tang W, Chen H, Zhang J, Qin Q, Jin Y, Ge L, Yang J, Li D, Lv F, Tang H. Intentions of healthcare seeking and self-isolation for MPOX among men who have sex with men in China: a national cross-sectional study. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2352426. [PMID: 38713582 PMCID: PMC11132697 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2352426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Linking identified MPOX cases to care is essential for MPOX control. This study aims to investigate the intentions of healthcare seeking and self-isolation for MPOX among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in early August 2023 in China. Respondents were recruited by community-based organizations (CBOs), collecting information on demographics, health status, behavioural and psychological characteristics. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the predictors of intentions to seek healthcare and self-isolate for MPOX within the MSM population. A total of 7725 participants were recruited, with a median age of 30 years. 92.21% of the participants would seek healthcare for MPOX-like symptoms, but only 52.50% intended to self-isolate if diagnosed. Intentions to seek healthcare were lower among those with MPOX-like symptoms in the past 3 months (standardized prevalence ratio (SPRs) = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.74-0.89) and the willingness to self-isolate was reduced among those diagnosed with MPOX in the past 3 months (SPRs = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.48-0.87). Participants free of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and those aware of their HIV status were more likely to seek healthcare and self-isolate than those with STIs or unaware of their HIV status. Regular followers of MPOX information and those perceiving a low risk of infection were more inclined to take preventive measures. These findings highlight the need for targeted MPOX prevention strategies for high-risk groups and the importance of addressing barriers in infectious disease prevention response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Peilong Li
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Huaijin Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinrui Zhang
- Jiamusi Prefectural Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Heilongjiang Province, Jiamusi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Qin
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yichen Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Ge
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yang
- Shenlan Public Health Counsel Service Center of Tiangjin, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongmin Li
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Lv
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Houlin Tang
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Janek SE, Hatoum S, Ledbetter L, Relf MV. Understanding the Stigma Experience of Men Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04329-8. [PMID: 38777917 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Men living with HIV (MLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa experience poor health outcomes and increased AIDS-related deaths due to stigma influencing testing and treatment uptake and adherence. PRISMA 2020 was used to report a meta-synthesis of the stigma experiences of MLWH in SSA. With the help of an expert librarian, a search of six databases was formulated and performed to examine the available qualitative and mixed method studies with qualitative results relevant to the research question. Studies focused on adult men living with HIV, with five studies specifically examining the HIV experience of men who have sex with men. Study themes were synthesized to describe MLWH's perceived, internalized, anticipated, enacted, and intersectional stigma experiences. Most studies included masculinity as a key theme that affected both testing and treatment adherence upon diagnosis. Future research is needed to better understand subpopulations, such as men who have sex with men living with HIV, and what interventions may be beneficial to mitigate the disparities among MLWH in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Janek
- School of Nursing, Duke University, 307 Trent Drive, Box 3322, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | | | | | - Michael V Relf
- School of Nursing, Duke University, 307 Trent Drive, Box 3322, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA.
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Ngumbau NM, Neary J, Wagner AD, Abuna F, Ochieng B, Dettinger JC, Gómez L, Marwa MM, Watoyi S, Nzove E, Pintye J, Baeten JM, Kinuthia J, John-Stewart G. Cofactors of Partner HIV Self-testing and Oral PrEP Acceptance Among Pregnant Women at High Risk of HIV in Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:238-245. [PMID: 38408215 PMCID: PMC10897494 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003355] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and male partner HIV self-testing (HIVST) is being scaled up within antenatal clinics. Few data are available on how co-distribution influences acceptance of both interventions. METHODS We used data from the PrEP Implementation of Mothers in Antenatal Care (NCT03070600) trial in Kenya. Women included in this analysis were determined to be at high risk of HIV and offered oral PrEP and partner HIVST. Characteristics were compared between women who chose: (1) PrEP and HIVST, (2) HIVST-alone, (3) PrEP-alone, or (4) declined both (reference), excluding women who had partners known to be living with HIV. RESULTS Among 911 women, median age was 24 years, 87.3% were married, 43.9% perceived themselves to be at high risk of HIV and 13.0% had history of intimate partner violence (IPV). Overall, 68.9% accepted HIVST and 18.4% accepted PrEP, with 54.7% accepting HIVST-alone, 4.2% PrEP-alone, and 14.3% both HIVST and PrEP. Of women accepting HIVST, partner HIV testing increased from 20% to 82% and awareness of partner HIV status increased from 4.7% to 82.0% between pregnancy and 9 months postpartum (P < 0.001). Compared with women who accepted neither, choosing: (1) HIVST-alone was associated with being married, higher level of education, and residing with partner; (2) PrEP-alone was associated with lower social support, IPV, not residing with partner, longer time living with partner, and suspicion of other partners; and (3) PrEP and HIVST was associated with being married, IPV, and suspicion that partner had other partners. CONCLUSIONS Understanding factors associated with accepting HIVST and PrEP can inform HIV prevention programs for pregnant women. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER NCT03070600.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy M Ngumbau
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Felix Abuna
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ben Ochieng
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Mary M Marwa
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Salphine Watoyi
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - John Kinuthia
- Research & Programs, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Epidemiology
- Department of Global Health
- Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Shaba F, Balakasi KT, Offorjebe OA, Nyirenda M, Wong VJ, Gupta SK, Hoffman RM, Dovel K. Facility HIV Self-Testing in Outpatient Departments: An Assessment of Characteristics and Concerns of Outpatients Who Opt Out of Testing in Malawi. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:151-160. [PMID: 37977194 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003327] [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: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Facility HIV self-testing (HIVST) in outpatient departments can dramatically increase testing among adult outpatients. However, it is still unclear why populations opt out of facility HIVST and reasons for opt outing. Using data from a parent facility HIVST trial, we sought to understand individual characteristics associated with opting out of facility HIVST and reported reasons for not testing. METHODS Exit surveys were conducted with outpatients aged ≥15 years at 5 facilities in Central and Southern Malawi randomized to the facility HIVST arm of the parent trial. Outpatients were eligible for our substudy if they were offered HIVST and eligible for HIV testing (ie, never previously tested HIV positive and tested ≥12 months ago or never tested). Summary statistics and multivariate regression models were used. RESULTS Seven hundred seventy-one outpatients were included in the substudy. Two hundred sixty-three (34%) opted out of HIVST. Urban residency (adjusted risk ratios [aRR] 3.48; 95% CI: 1.56 to 7.76) and self-reported poor health (aRR 1.86; 95% CI: 1.27 to 2.72) were associated with an increased risk of opting out. Male participants had a 69% higher risk of opting out (aRR 1.69; 95% CI: 1.14 to 2.51), with risk being 38% lower among working male participants. Primary reasons for not testing were feeling unprepared to test (49·4%) and perceived low risk of HIV infection (30·4%)-only 2.6% believed that HIVST instructions were unclear, and 1.7% were concerned about privacy. CONCLUSION Working, risky sexual behavior, rural residence, and good self-rated health were positively associated with opting out of HIVST among outpatients. Strategies to address internalized barriers, such as preparedness to test and perceived need to test, should be incorporated into facility HIVST interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ogechukwu A Offorjebe
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, CA
- School of Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Vincent J Wong
- Office of HIV/AIDS, United States Agency for International Development, Washington, DC; and
| | - Sundeep K Gupta
- Partners in Hope, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Risa M Hoffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Partners in Hope, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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Niyompano H, Biracyaza E, Hakizayezu F, Niyoyita JC, Ndayisenga J, Omolo J, Umubyeyi A. Predictors of never testing for HIV among sexually active individuals aged 15-56 years in Rwanda. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2259. [PMID: 38278987 PMCID: PMC10817977 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52652-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing services are known as the primary step in preventing the spread of HIV. However, access to these crucial services varies across regions within continents due to disparities in healthcare infrastructure, resources, and awareness. Approximately one in every five people living with HIV (PLWH) encounters obstacles in accessing HIV testing, notably in Eastern and Southern Africa, where geographical, resource, awareness, and infrastructure limitations prevail. Consequently, HIV remains a significant public health concern in these regions, necessitating expanded testing efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS disaster. Despite these challenges, there is a lack of scientific evidence on the prevalence of HIV testing and its determining factors in Rwanda. This study determined the prevalence of never being tested for HIV and its associated factors among sexually active individuals aged 15-56 who participated in the Rwanda AIDS Indicators and HIV Incidence Survey (RAIHIS). This cross-sectional study enrolled 1846 participants. The variables were extracted from the RAIHIS dataset and statistically analyzed using STATA software version 13. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were employed to identify predictors of never having undergone HIV testing, with a 95% confidence interval and a 5% statistical significance level applied. The prevalence of non-testing for HIV was 17.37%. Being aged 15-30 years (aOR 2.57, 95%CI 1.49-4.43, p < 0.001) and male (aOR 2.44, 95%CI 1.77-3.36, p < 0.001) was associated with an increase in the odds of never testing for HIV. Further, those from urban area were less likely than those living in rural areas to have never tested for HIV (aOR 0.31; 95% CI 0.38-0.67; p < 0.001). Participants who were not aware of HIV test facilitates were more likely to have never undergone HIV testing (aOR 1.75; 95% CI 1.25-2.47; p = 0.031) than their counterparts. While the prevalence of HIV non-testing remains modest, the significance of youth, male gender, lack of awareness, and rural residence as influential factors prompts a call for inventive strategies to tackle the reasons behind never having undergone HIV testing. Further exploration using mixed methodologies is advocated to better comprehend socio-cultural impacts and causation relating to these identified factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosee Niyompano
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
| | - Emmanuel Biracyaza
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal (CRIR), Montreal, QC, Canada
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - François Hakizayezu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jean Claude Niyoyita
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jerome Ndayisenga
- African Research and Community Health Initiative (ARCH Initiative), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jared Omolo
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP), University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Aline Umubyeyi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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Kgotlaetsile K, Bogart LM, Phaladze N, Klein DJ, Mosepele M. Feasibility and Acceptability of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Self-Testing for Men of Middle-to-Upper Socioeconomic Status in Botswana: A Pilot Study at 4 Worksites in the Financial Sector. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofad661. [PMID: 38264095 PMCID: PMC10805380 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad661] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Although Botswana has made great progress in expanding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing, men are less likely to be tested for HIV and test at a later stage compared with women. For Botswana to increase HIV testing coverage among men, HIV self-testing (HIVST) may be a promising supplement to standard, healthcare facility-based HIV testing. We conducted a pilot test of the feasibility and acceptability of HIVST for men of middle-to-upper socioeconomic status in Botswana. Methods Thirty-five men were recruited through 4 workplaces (banking sector). Wellness officers emailed all potentially eligible male employees about the opportunity to participate. Men were surveyed at baseline and follow-up on basic sociodemographic characteristics, HIV testing history, HIV stigma, use of the HIVST kit (at follow-up), and confirmatory testing and linkage to care if a preliminary positive result is obtained (at follow-up). Results All 35 men used the kit. The proportion who agreed with the statement that getting tested for HIV helps people feel better increased significantly from 80.7% at baseline to 100% at follow-up. In open-ended questions, men described the advantages of HIVST, including improved privacy and convenience, lowered HIV stigma, and enhanced control over testing. Concerns about HIVST included potential negative mental health consequences owing to not receiving pretest and posttest counseling, and not linking to care after a reactive result. Conclusions Results suggest that an intervention in which HIVST is discrete, private, and under men's control can help overcome stigma around HIV testing, resulting in a greater number of men tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keonayang Kgotlaetsile
- University of Botswana, Faculty of Medicine, & Boitekanelo College, Counselling Department, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Laura M Bogart
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - David J Klein
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana and Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Mosepele Mosepele
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana and Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
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Katirayi L, Maphosa T, Chilikutali L, Chamanga RK, Petersson J, Khatib S, Munthali B, Nyirenda R, Matiya E, Nyirenda L, Tiam A, Denoeud-Ndam L. Understanding gender differences of people with HIV newly diagnosed or returning to care with advanced HIV disease in Malawi: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2382. [PMID: 38041058 PMCID: PMC10691116 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17384-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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite tremendous progress in improving antiretroviral therapy (ART) access, advanced HIV disease (AHD) still remains a challenge globally. Reasons for delayed presentation to care and ART adherence may be affected by gender. We present qualitative study findings on gender differences in decisions for HIV testing and ART initiation/adherence in adults with AHD in Malawi. METHODS We used a qualitative study design, interviewing 16 men and 16 women aged 18 years and above diagnosed with AHD in sites implementing an optimized package of AHD care, from December 2021-February 2022. We included study participants receiving AHD services for at least two months. We also interviewed 16 lay workers and 16 health care workers supporting people living with AHD. In-depths interviews (IDIs) were conducted in English or Chichewa by trained research assistants using semi-structured interview guides. A short-answer analysis was conducted, and findings were interpreted according to thematic areas. RESULTS Both men and women reported stigma as a main barrier influencing their decision to test for HIV and to initiate and adhere to ART. Fear of side effects, insufficient food, and the need for more information were other barriers reported among men and women as well as perceived as barriers by HCWs. Men appear to have tested later for HIV and stated that they were waiting until experiencing significant symptoms before testing. According to clients and HCWs, men were also less inclined to initiate ART after a HIV diagnosis, whereas women were motivated to start treatment to remain healthy and care for the family. Both genders reported that treatment could be delayed if they were feeling healthy. Treatment fatigue was reported among all groups as the main reason to discontinue treatment. CONCLUSIONS There were similarities and differences between genders in decision-making about HIV care. Concerns about stigma were important reasons for delay in HIV care in both genders. Motivations for accessing HIV treatment and care were different among men and women, pushing the need for gender-tailored counseling services and community messaging that educate both men and women on the benefits of initiating ART early, in turn reducing the number of people presenting with AHD. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05510973, first registration 22/08/2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Katirayi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA
| | - Thulani Maphosa
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Khatib
- George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Rose Nyirenda
- Department of HIV and AIDS, Ministry of Health, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Eddie Matiya
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | | | - Appolinaire Tiam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA
| | - Lise Denoeud-Ndam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, Geneva, USA.
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Katirayi L, Tchendjou P, Tchounga B, Mbunka M, Wicks M, Conserve DF. Changing attitudes towards HIV testing and treatment among three generations of men in Cameroon: a qualitative analysis using the Fogg Behavior Model. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:501. [PMID: 36922812 PMCID: PMC10015680 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15139-3] [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: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men are less likely than women to test for HIV and promptly initiate antiretroviral treatment, resulting in advanced HIV disease and increased mortality rates among them. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with men and leaders in the west and central regions of Cameroon. Men were recruited from existing community groups and stratified by age: 21-30 years, 31-40 years, and 41 years and older. Community leaders were recommended by the community dialogue structure chairman. Interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide in English or French, depending on the participant's preference. Transcripts were coded in the MAXQDA v.12 software and analyzed using thematic analysis and by age group. The Fogg Behavior Model was used to gain a deeper understanding of the different perceptions across all age groups. RESULTS Younger men (21-30 years) were generally more accepting of HIV testing, as it had become normative behavior. Although financial barriers could limit access, free testing was mentioned as a prompt to initiate HIV testing. The middle age men (31-40 years) had the most concerns about HIV testing interrupting their work day and recommended increasing testing locations and hours. The older men (41 + years) were the least motivated to get tested, citing worries about the impact on their social standing within the community. All age groups reported being motivated to begin treatment if they were found to be HIV-positive. Participants also provided insights regarding community HIV testing and treatment messaging. Younger and older men preferred to hear directly from qualified health professionals, but younger men noted that social media, radio, and TV could be utilized. Middle age men also identified TV and radio as effective mediums, if door-to-door messaging was not an option. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights important considerations when planning future information-sharing activities for HIV testing and treatment. Since lived experiences differ across generations and societal roles continue to change, not only should the content of messages differ among the generations, but the means of communication must also be considered to ensure the messages are conveyed through a trusted source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Katirayi
- Research Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, 1350 Eye St NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20005 USA
| | - Patrice Tchendjou
- Programs Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Boris Tchounga
- Research Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Muhamed Mbunka
- Research Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Madison Wicks
- Department of Anthropology, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
| | - Donaldson F. Conserve
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC USA
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Wang N, Lan G, Zhu Q, Chen H, Huang J, Meng Q, Shen Z, Liang S, Wu X, Luo L, Ye R, Chen J, Tan S, Xing H, Shao Y, Ruan Y, Lin M. HIV Epidemiology, Care, and Treatment Outcomes Among Student and Nonstudent Youths Living With HIV in Southwest China Between 1996 and 2019: Historical Cohort Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e38881. [PMID: 36826980 PMCID: PMC10007008 DOI: 10.2196/38881] [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: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nearly one-third of new HIV infections occurred among youth in 2019 worldwide. Previous studies suggested that student youths living with HIV and nonstudent youths living with HIV might differ in some risk factors, transmission routes, HIV care, and disease outcomes. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the HIV epidemic, disease outcomes, and access to care among student and nonstudent youths living with HIV aged 16 to 25 years in Guangxi, China. METHODS We performed a historical cohort study by extracting data on all HIV or AIDS cases aged 16 to 25 years in Guangxi, China, during 1996-2019 from the Chinese Comprehensive Response Information Management System of HIV or AIDS. We conducted analyses to assess possible differences in demographic and behavioral characteristics, HIV care, and disease outcomes between student and nonstudent youths living with HIV. Multivariate Cox regression was used to assess differences in mortality and virologic failure between student and nonstudent cases. RESULTS A total of 13,839 youths aged 16 to 25 years were infected with HIV during 1996-2019. Among them, 10,202 cases were infected through sexual contact, most of whom were men (n=5507, 54%); 868 (8.5%) were students, and 9334 (91.5%) were not students. The number of student youths living with HIV was lower before 2006 but gradually increased from 2007 to 2019. In contrast, the nonstudent cases increased rapidly in 2005, then gradually declined after 2012. Student cases were mainly infected through homosexual contact (n=614, 70.7% vs n=1447, 15.5%; P<.001), while nonstudent cases were more likely to be infected through heterosexual contact (n=7887, 84.5% vs n=254, 29.3%; P<.001). Moreover, nonstudent cases had a significantly lower CD4 count than student cases at the time of HIV diagnosis (332 vs 362 cells/μL; P<.001). Nonstudents also had a delayed antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation compared to students (93 days vs 22 days; P<.001). Furthermore, the mortality rate of 0.4 and 1.0 deaths per 100 person-years were recorded for student and nonstudent youths with HIV, respectively. Overall, the mortality risk in nonstudent cases was 2.3 times that of student cases (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] 2.3, 95% CI 1.2-4.2; P=.008). The virologic failure rate was 2.3 and 2.6 per 100 person-years among student and nonstudent youths living with HIV, respectively. Nonstudent cases had double the risk of virologic failure compared to student cases (AHR 1.9, 95% CI 1.3-2.6; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Nonstudent youths living with HIV might face a low CD4 count at the time of HIV diagnosis, delayed ART initiation, and increased risk of death and virologic failure. Thus, HIV prevention and interventions should target youths who dropped out of school early to encourage safe sex and HIV screening, remove barriers to HIV care, and promote early ART initiation to curb the HIV epidemic among youths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China.,Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Guanghua Lan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Qiuying Zhu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Jinghua Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Qin Meng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Zhiyong Shen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Shujia Liang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Xiuling Wu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Liuhong Luo
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Rongyi Ye
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Jinli Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Shengkui Tan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposomics and Entire Lifecycle Heath, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Hui Xing
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhua Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Lin
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
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10
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Coursey K, Phiri K, Choko AT, Kalande P, Chamberlin S, Hubbard J, Thorp M, Hoffman R, Coates TJ, Dovel K. Understanding the Unique Barriers and Facilitators that Affect Men’s Initiation and Retention in HIV Care: A Qualitative Study to Inform Interventions for Men Across the Treatment Cascade in Malawi. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:1766-1775. [PMID: 36401144 PMCID: PMC10149452 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03909-w] [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] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMen in sub-Saharan Africa are underrepresented in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs. Our secondary analysis of 40 in-depth interviews with Malawian men living with HIV examined barriers and facilitators for ART initiation versus retention. Interviewees included men who never initiated or initiated ART late (initiation respondents, n = 19); and men who initiated ART but were late for an appointment (retention respondents, n = 21). Transcribed interviews were coded using deductive and inductive coding techniques and analyzed using constant comparison methods. Long wait times, frequent facility visits, and insufficient in-clinic privacy were barriers for initiation and retention. Poor knowledge of ART was primarily a barrier for initiation; unexpected travel was a barrier for retention. Key facilitators for initiation and retention included previous positive experiences with health facilities. Having examples of successful men using ART primarily facilitated initiation; support from spouses and male peers facilitated retention. Results may inform interventions to increase men’s engagement in ART services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Coursey
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
| | - Khumbo Phiri
- Partners in Hope Medical Center, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Augustine T Choko
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Stephanie Chamberlin
- Department of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, USA
| | - Julie Hubbard
- Partners in Hope Medical Center, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Marguerite Thorp
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Risa Hoffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Thomas J Coates
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
- University of California Global Health Institute, San Francisco, USA
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- Partners in Hope Medical Center, Lilongwe, Malawi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
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11
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Groves AK, Stankard P, Bowler SL, Jamil MS, Gebrekristos LT, Smith PD, Quinn C, Ba NS, Chidarikire T, Nguyen VTT, Baggaley R, Johnson C. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence for community-based HIV testing on men's engagement in the HIV care cascade. Int J STD AIDS 2022; 33:1090-1105. [PMID: 35786140 PMCID: PMC9660288 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221111277] [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: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Men with HIV are less likely than women to know their status, be on antiretroviral therapy, and be virally suppressed. This review examined men's community-based HIV testing services (CB-HTS) outcomes. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS We searched seven databases and conference abstracts through July 2018. We estimated pooled proportions and/or risk ratios (for meta-analyses) for each outcome using random effects models. RESULTS 188 studies met inclusion criteria. Common testing models included targeted outreach (e.g. mobile testing), home-based testing, and testing at stand-alone community sites. Across 25 studies reporting uptake, 81% (CI: 75-86%) of men offered testing accepted it. Uptake was higher among men reached through CB-HTS than facility-based HTS (RR = 1.39; CI: 1.13-1.71). Over 69% (CI: 64-71%) of those tested through CB-HTS were men, across 184 studies. Across studies reporting new HIV-positivity among men (n = 18), 96% were newly diagnosed (CI: 77-100%). Across studies reporting linkage to HIV care (n = 8), 70% (CI: 36-103%) of men were linked to care. Across 57 studies reporting sex-disaggregated data for CB-HTS conducted among key populations, men's uptake was high (80%; CI: 70-88%) and nearly all were newly diagnosed and linked to care (95%; CI: 94-100%; and 94%; CI: 88-100%, respectively). CONCLUSION CB-HTS is an important strategy for reaching undiagnosed men with HIV from the general population and key population groups, particularly using targeted outreach models. When compared to facility-based HIV testing services, men tested through CB-HTS are more likely to uptake testing, and nearly all men who tested positive through CB-HTS were newly diagnosed. Linkage to care may be a challenge following CB-HTS, and greater efforts and research are needed to effectively implement testing strategies that facilitate rapid ART initiation and linkage to prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison K Groves
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Sarah L Bowler
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Muhammad S Jamil
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Patrick D Smith
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Caitlin Quinn
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ndoungou Salla Ba
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Thato Chidarikire
- HIV Prevention Programmes, National Department of
Health, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Rachel Baggaley
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cheryl Johnson
- Department of HIV/AIDS, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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12
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Hlongwa M, Jama NA, Mehlomakulu V, Pass D, Basera W, Nicol E. Barriers and Facilitating Factors to HIV Treatment Among Men in a High-HIV-Burdened District in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A Qualitative Study. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221120987. [PMID: 36066024 PMCID: PMC9459474 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221120987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite enormous increases in the proportion of people living with HIV accessing treatment in sub-Saharan Africa, major gender disparities persist, with men experiencing lower rates of testing, linkage to treatment, and retention in care. In this study, we investigated the barriers and facilitating factors to HIV treatment among men in uThukela, a high-HIV-burdened district in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. We conducted a qualitative study including nine Black African male participants who were recruited from 18 health care facilities in uThukela District, KwaZulu-Natal province. In-depth interviews were conducted with participants who linked to care and those who did not link to care at 3-month post HIV diagnosis. We used Atlas.ti for thematic analysis. Data were coded and linked to broader themes emerging across interviews. The median age was 40 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 31-41). This study identified the following key themes which emerged as barriers to HIV treatment among men in uThukela District: lack of emotional readiness, perceived medication side effects, fear of treatment non-adherence, perceived stigma and confidentiality concerns, and poor socioeconomic factors. We identified the following enabling factors to HIV treatment among men: fear of HIV progressing, acceptance of status, disclosure, support from family and friends, positive testing experience, and accessibility of antiretroviral treatment. This study revealed barriers and enabling factors to HIV treatment among men. These factors are important to inform the design of targeted intervention strategies aimed at improving linkage and retention to HIV treatment among men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbuzeleni Hlongwa
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa,School of Nursing and Public Health
Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Mbuzeleni Hlongwa, Burden of Disease
Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, P.O. Box 19070,
Tygerberg, Cape Town 7505, South Africa.
| | - Ngcwalisa Amanda Jama
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa,School of Public Health, University of
the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Vuyelwa Mehlomakulu
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Desiree Pass
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wisdom Basera
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa,School of Public Health and Family
Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Edward Nicol
- Burden of Disease Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa,Division of Health Systems and Public
Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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13
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Ostermann J, Njau B, Hobbie AM, Mtuy TB, Masnick M, Brown DS, Mühlbacher AC, Thielman NM. Divergent preferences for enhanced HIV testing options among high-risk populations in northern Tanzania: a short report. AIDS Care 2022:1-9. [PMID: 36063533 PMCID: PMC9985668 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2119471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
To achieve the UNAIDS target of diagnosing 95% of all persons living with HIV, enhanced HIV testing services with greater attractional value need to be developed and implemented. We conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to quantify preferences for enhanced HIV testing features across two high-risk populations in the Kilimanjaro Region in northern Tanzania. We designed and fielded a survey with 12 choice tasks to systematically recruited female barworkers and male mountain porters. Key enhanced features included: testing availability on every day of the week, an oral test, integration of a general health check or an examination for sexually transmitted infections (STI) with HIV testing, and provider-assisted confidential partner notification in the event of a positive HIV test result. Across 300 barworkers and 440 porters surveyed, mixed logit analyses of 17,760 choices indicated strong preferences for everyday testing availability, health checks, and STI examinations. Most participants were averse to oral testing and confidential partner notification by providers. Substantial preference heterogeneity was observed within each risk group. Enhancing HIV testing services to include options for everyday testing, general health checks, and STI examinations may increase the appeal of HIV testing offers to high-risk populations.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02714140.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC,USA,South Carolina Smart State Center for Healthcare Quality, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA,Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA,Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Amy M. Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tara B. Mtuy
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Derek S. Brown
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA,Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Axel C. Mühlbacher
- Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA,Institut Gesundheitsökonomie und Medizinmanagement, Hochschule Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nathan M. Thielman
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA,Center for Health Policy & Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA,Nathan M. Thielman, Duke University, Box 90519, Durham, NC 27708, Tel: +1 919 668 7173,
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14
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Dey NEY, Owusu Ansah K, Norman QA, Manukure JM, Brew ABK, Dey EA, Agbadi P. HIV Testing among sexually active Ghanaians: an examination of the rural-urban correlates. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:4063-4081. [PMID: 35704123 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03731-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
HIV testing is critical in reducing the risk of HIV transmission. We investigated the rural-urban correlates of HIV testing amongst sexually active Ghanaians using data from the 2017/2018 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Six (GMICS 6). Robust Poisson models (reporting Adjusted Prevalence Ratios (APR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs)) were used to achieve this aim. About 46% of the participants had ever tested for HIV. According to the results, approximately 52% and 39% of urban and rural dwellers, respectively, have undergone HIV testing. HIV knowledge, HIV stigma, gender, age, education, marital status, childbirth history, sexual history, health insurance coverage, media exposure, household wealth, and region of residence were significantly related to HIV testing with observed variations across rural-urban areas. The findings call for the expansion of advocacy efforts towards encouraging HIV testing, targeting sexually active Ghanaians particularly in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Enam Amen Dey
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Pascal Agbadi
- Department of Sociology and Social Policy, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, SAR, Hong Kong
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15
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Wiginton JM, Mathur S, Gottert A, Pilgrim N, Pulerwitz J. Hearing From Men Living With HIV: Experiences With HIV Testing, Treatment, and Viral Load Suppression in Four High-Prevalence Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Front Public Health 2022; 10:861431. [PMID: 35651865 PMCID: PMC9149263 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.861431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Engaging men in HIV services remains a challenge across sub-Saharan Africa. There is a critical need to better understand facilitators of men's successful engagement with HIV services and assess if there are similarities across contexts. We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 92 men living with HIV (MLHIV) across Malawi, Uganda, South Africa, and Eswatini, most of whom had been diagnosed with HIV within the last 5 years. We coded interviews for themes using a constant-comparative approach. We contextualized our findings within a socioecological framework. HIV testing was primarily motivated by illness (individual level), though illness was sometimes accompanied by prompting and support from healthcare providers and/or intimate partners. Once diagnosed, nearly all participants reported immediate linkage to care, initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and subsequent ART adherence. ART initiation and adherence were facilitated by men's sense of agency and ownership over their health (individual level), social support from intimate partners, friends, and family (interpersonal/network level), supportive-directive counseling from healthcare providers (institutional/health systems level), and male-friendly services, i.e., rapid, respectful, private (institutional/health systems level). Health literacy regarding viral suppression (individual level), strengthened by patient-provider communication (institutional/health systems level), was highest in Uganda, where most men could discuss viral load testing experiences, report their viral load status (most reported suppressed), and demonstrate an understanding of treatment as prevention. Elsewhere, few participants understood what viral load suppression was and even fewer knew their viral load status. Our findings reveal socioecological-level facilitators of men's progress across the HIV-care continuum. Programs may want to leverage facilitators of ART initiation and adherence that span socioecological levels—e.g., healthcare ownership and agency, social support, supportive-directive counseling—and apply them to each end of the continuum to encourage early HIV testing/diagnosis and improve health literacy to help men understand and achieve viral load suppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Ann Gottert
- Population Council, Washington, DC, United States
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16
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Lian J, Chen X, Su X, Si M, Dai Z, Fu J, Yu F, Mi G, Liu Y. HIV testing and related factors among 50 years and older MSM in China: results from a cross-sectional study. AIDS Care 2022; 35:608-613. [PMID: 35392734 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2060493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTHIV prevalence has increased continuously, and the age groups most afflicted by the epidemic have also shifted to people aged above 50 years. Informed by the theory of HBM, we aimed to investigate related factors associated with regular HIV testing behavior. Cross-sectional data were collected using online questionnaire from geosocial networking (GSN) mobile application (apps) for MSM during May 2020 (N = 1259). Data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Around 62.0% (n = 781) had received HIV testing before. Participants being divorced/widowed (AOR = 1.5,95%CI:1.1-2.0), being aware of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge (AOR = 1.8,95%CI:1.4-2.3), having disclosed sexual orientation (AOR = 1.9,95%CI:1.5-2.5), ever had sexually transmitted infections symptoms (STIs)before (AOR = 2.4,95%CI:1.8-3.2), having had≥2 sexual partners (AOR = 1.8,95%CI:1.4-2.3) and with high self-efficacy (AOR = 1.1,95%CI:1.0-1.1) were more likely to receive HIV testing. Findings suggest that many Chinses MSM aged 50 and above have not been tested for HIV. Interventions for promoting HIV testing should focus on expanding scales of HIV/STIs screening, providing HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, creating a more supportive social environment and improving self-efficacy of HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lian
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guodong Mi
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanli Liu
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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17
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Nardell MF, Adeoti O, Peters C, Kakuhikire B, Govathson-Mandimika C, Long L, Pascoe S, Tsai AC, Katz IT. Men missing from the HIV care continuum in sub-Saharan Africa: a meta-analysis and meta-synthesis. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25889. [PMID: 35324089 PMCID: PMC8944222 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Men are missing along the HIV care continuum. However, the estimated proportions of men in sub‐Saharan Africa meeting the UNAIDS 95‐95‐95 goals vary substantially between studies. We sought to estimate proportions of men meeting each of the 95‐95‐95 goals across studies in sub‐Saharan Africa, describe heterogeneity, and summarize qualitative evidence on factors influencing care engagement. Methods We systematically searched PubMed and Embase for peer‐reviewed articles published between 1 January 2014 and 16 October 2020. We included studies involving men ≥15 years old, with data from 2009 onward, reporting on at least one 95‐95‐95 goal in sub‐Saharan Africa. We estimated pooled proportions of men meeting these goals using DerSimonion‐Laird random effects models, stratifying by study population (e.g. studies focusing exclusively on men who have sex with men vs. studies that did not), facility setting (healthcare vs. community site), region (eastern/southern Africa vs. western/central Africa), outcome measurement (e.g. threshold for viral load suppression), median year of data collection (before vs. during or after 2017) and quality criteria. Data from qualitative studies exploring barriers to men's HIV care engagement were summarized using meta‐synthesis. Results and discussion We screened 14,896 studies and included 129 studies in the meta‐analysis, compiling data over the data collection period. Forty‐seven studies reported data on knowledge of serostatus, 43 studies reported on antiretroviral therapy use and 74 studies reported on viral suppression. Approximately half of men with HIV reported not knowing their status (0.49 [95% CI, 0.41–0.58; range, 0.09–0.97]) or not being on treatment (0.58 [95% CI, 0.51–0.65; range, 0.07–0.97]), while over three‐quarters of men achieved viral suppression on treatment (0.79 [95% CI, 0.77–0.81; range, 0.39–0.97]. Heterogeneity was high, with variation in estimates across study populations, settings and outcomes. The meta‐synthesis of 40 studies identified three primary domains in which men described risks associated with engagement in HIV care: perceived social norms, health system challenges and poverty. Conclusions Psychosocial and systems‐level interventions that change men's perceptions of social norms, improve trust in and accessibility of the health system, and address costs of accessing care are needed to better engage men, especially in HIV testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Nardell
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oluwatomi Adeoti
- Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carson Peters
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Bernard Kakuhikire
- Faculty of Business and Management Sciences, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Caroline Govathson-Mandimika
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lawrence Long
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sophie Pascoe
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Global Health Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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18
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Conserve DF, Msofe J, Issango J, Tureski K, McCarthy P, Rwezahura P, Maboko L, Lwakatare M, Ndugulile F, Kamwela J, Sims W, Ahonkhai AA, Whembolua GL. Development, Implementation, and Scale Up of the National Furaha Yangu Campaign to Promote HIV Test and Treat Services Uptake Among Men in Tanzania. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221087838. [PMID: 35333688 PMCID: PMC8958702 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221087838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence has demonstrated that immediate HIV treatment initiation upon a positive HIV test, referred to as Test and Treat, can help people living with HIV live longer, healthier lives and prevent HIV transmission. Although Tanzania adopted the evidence-based Test and Treat strategy since 2016, men were not being adequately reached for HIV services. A national campaign was launched to promote the new HIV services with a focus on men. To inform the development and implementation of the campaign, we conducted formative audience insights-gathering (AIG) sessions to assess facilitators and barriers to accessing HIV Test and Treat services and inform the concepts and materials for the campaign. Qualitative AIG interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 54 people who were unaware or aware of their HIV status and currently or not currently on treatment, as well as health workers. Facilitators and barriers included a fear of testing positive, the desire to belong, control their narratives, and reinvent themselves to achieve their dreams and live a happy life. The campaign played off a My Happiness! creative concept to position antiretroviral therapy (ART) as a solution to fears around what life would be like after a positive HIV diagnosis. The development and implementation of the campaign were informed by the AIG sessions and national stakeholders, leading to strong partners’ buy-in that supported the scale-up of the ongoing campaign from 12 to 26 regions via the collaborative efforts of government, donors, and implementing partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jumanne Issango
- Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kara Tureski
- FHI 360, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Kara Tureski is now affiliated with FHI 360, Washington, DC, USA and Pamela McCarthy is now affiliated with Pam McCarthy Associates, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Pamela McCarthy
- FHI 360, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.,Kara Tureski is now affiliated with FHI 360, Washington, DC, USA and Pamela McCarthy is now affiliated with Pam McCarthy Associates, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | | | - Leonard Maboko
- Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Jerome Kamwela
- Tanzania Commission for AIDS (TACAIDS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wynton Sims
- University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aima A Ahonkhai
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.,Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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19
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Ginjupalli R, Mundaden R, Choi Y, Herfel E, Oketch SY, Watt MH, Makhulo B, Bukusi EA, Huchko M. Developing a framework to describe stigma related to cervical cancer and HPV in western Kenya. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:39. [PMID: 35148778 PMCID: PMC8832662 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01619-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite a high prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer in low and middle-income countries, stigma remains an issue. Addressing HPV and cervical cancer stigma could significantly improve health outcomes for these conditions. The objective of this study was to identify the manifestations of stigma and their potential impacts on health-seeking behavior. Methods Twenty-six in-depth interviews were conducted with women living with HIV, HIV-negative women, community health volunteers, and health care providers in Kisumu, Kenya in 2019. The interviews were designed to draw out existing attitudes or experiences related to stigma within the community. We conducted a thematic analysis of the interviews to identify internalized, anticipated, and discriminatory attitudes. Results Within internalized attitudes, a prominent observed theme was a fear of death associated with a positive HPV test. This stemmed from a lack of understanding of differences between HPV and cervical cancer and posed a significant barrier for women deciding to seek screening or to continue with treatment. Discriminatory attitudes of community members, including assumptions of promiscuity, infidelity, or HIV status, were perceived to prevent women from accessing screening and treatment opportunities. The interviews also exhibited a limited awareness of HPV in this region, which may have contributed to a lack of enacted stigma towards people living with HPV or cervical cancer. Conclusion Stigma has the potential to lead to decreased screening and treatment uptake through its drivers. This includes a decreased perception of personal risk due to a lack of knowledge, which results in increased HPV-risk behaviors. Future research must focus on creating and integrating stigma-reducing interventions, primarily to encourage women to seek out primary and secondary preventative measures. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12905-022-01619-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Ginjupalli
- Center for Global Reproductive Health, Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Rachel Mundaden
- Center for Global Reproductive Health, Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Yujung Choi
- Center for Global Reproductive Health, Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Emily Herfel
- Center for Global Reproductive Health, Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Sandra Yvonne Oketch
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Off Mbagathi Road, P.O. Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Melissa H Watt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Williams Building, Room 1N490, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Breandan Makhulo
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Off Mbagathi Road, P.O. Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth Anne Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Off Mbagathi Road, P.O. Box 54840 00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Megan Huchko
- Center for Global Reproductive Health, Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Dr, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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20
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Agutu CA, Oduor TH, Hassan AS, Mugo PM, Chege W, de Wit TFR, Sanders EJ, Graham SM. Predictors of testing history and new HIV diagnosis among adult outpatients seeking care for symptoms of acute HIV infection in coastal Kenya: a cross-sectional analysis of intervention participants in a stepped-wedge HIV testing trial. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:280. [PMID: 35148720 PMCID: PMC8832653 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12711-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV testing is the first step to stop transmission. We aimed to evaluate HIV testing history and new diagnoses among adult outpatients in Kenya aged 18–39 years seeking care for symptoms of acute HIV infection (AHI). Methods The Tambua Mapema Plus study, a stepped-wedge trial, enrolled patients presenting to care at six primary care facilities with symptoms of AHI for a targeted HIV-1 nucleic acid (NA) testing intervention compared with standard provider-initiated testing using rapid antibody tests. Intervention participants underwent a questionnaire and NA testing, followed by rapid tests if NA-positive. Multinomial logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with never testing or testing > 1 year ago (“late retesting”) relative to testing ≤ 1 year ago (“on-time testers”). Logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with new diagnosis. All analyses were stratified by sex. Results Of 1,500 intervention participants, 613 (40.9%) were men. Overall, 250 (40.8%) men vs. 364 (41.0%) women were late retesters, and 103 (16.8%) men vs. 50 (5.6%) women had never tested prior to enrolment. Younger age, single status, lower education level, no formal employment, childlessness, sexual activity in the past 6 weeks, and > 1 sexual partner were associated with testing history among both men and women. Intimate partner violence > 1 month ago, a regular sexual partner, and concurrency were associated with testing history among women only. New diagnoses were made in 37 (2.5%) participants (17 men and 20 women), of whom 8 (21.6%) had never tested and 16 (43.2%) were late retesters. Newly-diagnosed men were more likely to have symptoms for > 14 days, lower education level and no religious affiliation and less likely to be young, single, and childless than HIV-negative men; newly-diagnosed women were more likely to report fever than HIV-negative women. Among men, never testing was associated with fivefold increased odds (95% confidence interval 1.4–20.9) of new diagnosis relative to on-time testers in adjusted analyses. Conclusion Most new HIV diagnoses were among participants who had never tested or tested > 1 year ago. Strengthening provider-initiated testing targeting never testers and late retesters could decrease time to diagnosis among symptomatic adults in coastal Kenya. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03508908 registered on 26/04/2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara A Agutu
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.
| | - Tony H Oduor
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Amin S Hassan
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Peter M Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Wairimu Chege
- Prevention Sciences Program, Division of AIDS (DAIDS), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Tobias F Rinke de Wit
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eduard J Sanders
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Susan M Graham
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.,Departments of Global Health, Medicine, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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21
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Jude O, Nelson O, Katagwa I. Socio-economic and demographic factors associated with never having tested for HIV among sexually active men across the four administrative regions of Uganda. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:2301. [PMID: 34923979 PMCID: PMC8684685 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12384-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV testing among men is paramount in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of HIV. There is limited literature in understanding the socio-economic and demographic factors associated with never having tested for HIV among sexually active men aged 15 - 54 across the four administrative regions of Uganda. The purpose of this study is to investigate the socio-economic and demographic factors associated with never having tested for HIV among sexually active men aged 15 - 54 across the four administrative regions in the country. METHODS The study used a cross-sectional research design to examine factors associated with never having tested for HIV among 4,168 sexually active men (15 - 54 years) across four administrative regions of Uganda using data from 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS). Frequency distributions, Pearson chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression were used to establish the association between never having tested for HIV among sexually active men (15 - 54 years) and selected independent variables across regions. RESULTS About 20% of sexually active men (15 - 54 years) never tested for HIV across regions of the country. The major correlates amidst variability of never testing for HIV among sexually active men across regions were; educational level and marital status. Age, religious status, wealth quintile, worked in the last 12 months, circumcised, and one sexual partner in the last 12 months were only correlates of never having tested for HIV among respondents in particular regions of the country. CONCLUSION Findings in the study suggest promotion of male education, and suggest further investigation into the relationship between HIV non-testing among sexually active men (15 - 54 years) and being married across regions of the country. The study also proposes appreciation of regional differences in the outcome of HIV non-testing and suggests that efforts be focused on addressing regional differences in order to attain high HIV testing among sexually active men (15 - 54 years) across regions of Uganda, and thus reduce HIV related morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otim Jude
- Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda
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22
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African Immigrant Health: The Health Promotion Beliefs of Zimbabwean Immigrants in the United States. J Immigr Minor Health 2021; 24:1261-1268. [PMID: 34855044 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-021-01318-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
To examine the health beliefs that can influence engagement in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction health promotion activities among Zimbabwe-born immigrants in the US. Focus group interviews with 37 New England-based Zimbabwean immigrants in the US conducted between January and April 2019. Focus groups were led by study investigators who were members of the Zimbabwean community. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed using framework analysis. Five themes emerged: (1) negative attitudes toward ill health, (2) mistrust toward western medicine, (3) stigma and taboo toward ill health, (4) a negative change in eating habits and (5) negative attitudes toward physical exercise. The participants' attitudes and beliefs may interfere with their engagement in health promotion activities aimed at reducing the burden of CVD risk in this population. Understanding these beliefs paves the way for development of culturally congruent health promotion interventions in Zimbabwean and other African immigrant populations.
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23
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Bogart LM, Kgotlaetsile K, Phaladze N, Mosepele M. HIV self-testing may overcome stigma and other barriers to HIV testing among higher-socioeconomic status men in Botswana: A qualitative study. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2021; 20:297-306. [PMID: 34905451 PMCID: PMC8717737 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2021.2000450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In Botswana, HIV prevalence is 20.3% among those between 15 and 49 years old, and in sub-Saharan Africa, higher income has been associated with increased HIV risk. We qualitatively explored barriers to HIV testing and acceptability of HIV self-testing (HIVST) among higher socio-economic status (SES) men in Botswana. Twenty higher SES men (10 tested, 10 not tested recently) participated in semi-structured interviews and 10 men participated in asynchronous online focus groups (FGs) about HIV testing barriers and HIVST acceptability. Results indicated that stigma, inconvenience and perceived lack of confidentiality were barriers to HIV testing, as were masculinity-related concerns (e.g. fear of losing status if they accessed testing or were found to be HIV positive). Men said that HIVST reduced barriers to testing and that test kits could be placed in public spaces for pick-up and used in private. Overall, HIVST was seen as acceptable and feasible among higher SES men in Botswana.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mosepele Mosepele
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
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24
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Ky-Zerbo O, Desclaux A, Kouadio AB, Rouveau N, Vautier A, Sow S, Camara SC, Boye S, Pourette D, Sidibé Y, Maheu-Giroux M, Larmarange J. Enthusiasm for Introducing and Integrating HIV Self-Testing but Doubts About Users: A Baseline Qualitative Analysis of Key Stakeholders' Attitudes and Perceptions in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali and Senegal. Front Public Health 2021; 9:653481. [PMID: 34733811 PMCID: PMC8558355 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.653481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2019, the ATLAS project, coordinated by Solthis in collaboration with national AIDS programs, has introduced, promoted and delivered HIV self-testing (HIVST) in Côte d'Ivoire, Mali and Senegal. Several delivery channels have been defined, including key populations: men who have sex with men, female sex workers and people who use injectable drugs. At project initiation, a qualitative study analyzing the perceptions and attitudes of key stakeholders regarding the introduction of HIVST in their countries and its integration with other testing strategies for key populations was conducted. The study was conducted from September to November 2019 within 3 months of the initiation of HIVST distribution. Individual interviews were conducted with 60 key informants involved in the project or in providing support and care to key populations: members of health ministries, national AIDS councils, international organizations, national and international non-governmental organizations, and peer educators. Semi structured interviews were recorded, translated when necessary, and transcribed. Data were coded using Dedoose© software for thematic analyses. We found that stakeholders' perceptions and attitudes are favorable to the introduction and integration of HIVST for several reasons. Some of these reasons are held in common, and some are specific to each key population and country. Overall, HIVST is considered able to reduce stigma; preserve anonymity and confidentiality; reach key populations that do not access testing via the usual strategies; remove spatial barriers; save time for users and providers; and empower users with autonomy and responsibility. It is non-invasive and easy to use. However, participants also fear, question and doubt users' autonomy regarding their ability to use HIVST kits correctly; to ensure quality secondary distribution; to accept a reactive test result; and to use confirmation testing and care services. For stakeholders, HIVST is considered an attractive strategy to improve access to HIV testing for key populations. Their doubts about users' capacities could be a matter for reflective communication with stakeholders and local adaptation before the implementation of HIVST in new countries. Those perceptions may reflect the West African HIV situation through the emphasis they place on the roles of HIV stigma and disclosure in HIVST efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odette Ky-Zerbo
- TransVIHMI, Université de Montpellier, IRD, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Desclaux
- TransVIHMI, IRD, INSERM, University of Montpellier, Center Régional de Recherche et de Formation au VIH et Maladies Associées de Fann, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Alexis Brou Kouadio
- Département de Sociologie, Institut d'ethnosociologie (IES), Université Félix Houphouët Boigny de Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | | | - Anthony Vautier
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives Pour la Santé, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Souleymane Sow
- Center Régional de Recherche et de Formation à la Prise en Charge Clinique de Fann (CRCF), Dakar, Senegal
| | - Sidi Cheick Camara
- Département Santé, Institut Malien de Recherche en Sciences Sociales (IMRSS), Bamako, Mali
| | - Sokhna Boye
- Ceped, IRD, Université de Paris, Inserm, Paris, France
| | | | - Younoussa Sidibé
- Solidarité Thérapeutique et Initiatives pour la Santé, Bamako, Mali
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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25
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Meyerson K, Hoddinott G, Nicholson T, Meehan SA. Underlying reasons why some people haven't tested for HIV - a discourse analysis of qualitative data from Cape Town, South Africa. SAHARA J 2021; 18:105-112. [PMID: 34514958 PMCID: PMC8439247 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2021.1977686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Reported barriers to HIV testing over the last 15 years have remained consistent, despite improved service offerings. We aimed to probe deeper by exploring how people who have never tested construct HIV testing in their talk. We used this to suggest underlying psychosocial barriers to testing even when there is high availability. We enrolled 14 participants who reported that they had never tested for HIV and conducted individual, open-ended interviews. The data were organised thematically with theory-generative interpretations informed by discourse analysis. Reasons for not testing reported reflect similar barriers identified in previous research. Deeper probing identified three discursive processes by which participants explained why they had never tested for HIV, suggesting that the way participants used ‘reasons’ in their talk is an indicator that the participants were repeating ‘tropes’. While aware of HIV testing facilities, participants still chose not to test. Influences on the choice to test or not were positioned as outside of the person’s control. These findings suggest that there are deeper reasons why some people have not tested and that these will not be resolved through merely increasing accessibility to testing services. We recommend increased consideration of the psychosocial implications of testing in service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyla Meyerson
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graeme Hoddinott
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tamryn Nicholson
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sue-Ann Meehan
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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26
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What has comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge got to do with HIV testing among men in Kenya and Mozambique? Evidence from Demographic and Health Surveys. J Biosoc Sci 2021; 54:558-571. [PMID: 34099074 DOI: 10.1017/s0021932021000237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
People living with undiagnosed HIV are big contributors to the transmission of the virus. Although measures have been made to scale up HIV prevention and voluntary counselling and testing in sub-Saharan Africa, testing coverage remains low in many sub-Saharan African countries, including Mozambique and Kenya, where most people live with HIV/AIDS. Studies have shown that, in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa, men are less likely to test for HIV compared with women. This study examined the relationship between comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and HIV testing among men in Kenya and Mozambique. Data were from the men's re-code file of the Demographic and Health Surveys of Mozambique and Kenya. Binary logistic regression models were generated and the results presented as crude odds ratios (cOR) and adjusted odds ratios (aOR). The prevalences of HIV testing in Kenya and Mozambique were 80.1% and 46.7%, respectively. Men in Mozambique who had comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (aOR=1.26, CI: 1.07-1.47) were more likely to test for HIV compared with their counterparts who had no comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge. In Kenya, men who had comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (aOR=1.23, CI: 1.09-1.39) were more likely to test for HIV compared with their counterparts who had no comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge. This study found a statistically strong significant association between comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and HIV testing among men in Kenya and Mozambique. To improve HIV testing rate among men, it is important that interventions are geared towards improving men's comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge, perhaps by expanding HIV/AIDS education programmes and campaigns. This could improve HIV testing rates and ensure the realization of the global HIV/AIDS target of 95-95-95 by the year 2030.
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27
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Chamie G, Napierala S, Agot K, Thirumurthy H. HIV testing approaches to reach the first UNAIDS 95% target in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet HIV 2021; 8:e225-e236. [PMID: 33794183 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00023-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
HIV testing is a crucial first step to accessing HIV prevention and treatment services and to achieving the UNAIDS target of 95% of people living with HIV being aware of their status by 2030. Combined implementation of facility-based and community-based approaches has helped to achieve high levels of HIV testing coverage in many countries including those in sub-Saharan Africa. Approaches such as index testing and self-testing help to reach individuals at higher risk of acquiring HIV, men, and those less likely to use health facilities or community-based services. However, as the proportion of people living with HIV who are aware of their HIV status has risen, the challenge of reaching those who remain undiagnosed or those who are at high risk of acquiring HIV has grown. Demand generation and novel testing approaches will be necessary to reach undiagnosed people living with HIV and to promote frequent retesting among key and priority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases & Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Sue Napierala
- RTI International, Women's Global Health Imperative, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development Organization, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Harsha Thirumurthy
- Perelman School of Medicine and Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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28
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Ye R, Liu C, Tan S, Li J, Simoni JM, Turner D, Nelson LE, Vermund SH, Wang N, Qian HZ. Factors associated with past HIV testing among men who have sex with men attending university in China: a cross-sectional study. Sex Health 2021; 18:58-63. [PMID: 33639685 PMCID: PMC10767712 DOI: 10.1071/sh20088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background HIV prevalence has been rapidly increasing among men who have sex with men (MSM) attending university in China, but HIV testing rates remain suboptimal. The factors associated with past HIV testing in this population in Beijing, China, were investigated. METHODS This study used data from the baseline survey of an HIV intervention clinical trial among MSM who did not have a history of a positive HIV diagnosis. This analysis focused on the HIV testing experience in a subgroup of university student MSM participants. Log-binomial models were used to evaluate factors associated with past HIV testing. RESULTS Of 375 university student MSM, the median age was 22 years; 89.3% were Han ethnic. Approximately half (50.4%, n = 189) had ever taken an HIV test before the survey. In a multivariable log-binomial model, older age (adjusted prevalence ratio (APR), 1.04; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02-1.06), had first sexual intercourse at age <18 years (APR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.08-1.45) and knew someone living with HIV (APR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.07-1.61) were associated with a higher likelihood of past testing. Self-reported barriers to taking a test included perceived low HIV risk, fear of a positive diagnosis, did not know where to get tested and fear of discrimination. Facilitators included anonymity in taking a test, confidentiality of testing results and availability of home-based and rapid testing. CONCLUSIONS The HIV testing rate among university student MSM was low. Interventions should be implemented to address structural, institutional and individual barriers to HIV testing in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongyi Ye
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Chunfang Liu
- School of Public Health, Baotou Medical University, Baotou, China
| | - Shengkui Tan
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Juntong Li
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China
| | - Jane M Simoni
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - DeAnne Turner
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Sten H Vermund
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Na Wang
- School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, China; and Corresponding authors. ;
| | - Han-Zhu Qian
- School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; and Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, China; and Corresponding authors. ;
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