1
|
Rampilo M, Phalane E, Phaswana-Mafuya RN. Piloting the Inclusion of the Key Populations Unique Identifier Code in the South African Routine Health Information Management System: Protocol for a Multiphased Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e55092. [PMID: 39240683 DOI: 10.2196/55092] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global community has set an ambitious goal to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Significant progress has been achieved in pursuing these objectives; however, concerns remain regarding the lack of disaggregated routine data for key populations (KPs) for a targeted HIV response. KPs include female sex workers, transgender populations, gay men and other men who have sex with men, people who are incarcerated, and people who use drugs. From an epidemiological perspective, KPs play a fundamental role in shaping the dynamics of HIV transmission due to specific behaviors. In South Africa, routine health information management systems (RHIMS) do not include a unique identifier code (UIC) for KPs. The purpose of this protocol is to develop the framework for improved HIV monitoring and programming through piloting the inclusion of KPs UIC in the South African RHIMS. OBJECTIVE This paper aims to describe the protocol for a multiphased study to pilot the inclusion of KPs UIC in RHIMS. METHODS We will conduct a multiphased study to pilot the framework for the inclusion of KPs UIC in the RHIMS. The study has attained the University of Johannesburg Research Ethics Committee approval (REC-2518-2023). This study has four objectives, including a systematic review, according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines (objective 1). Second, policy document review and in-depth stakeholder interviews using semistructured questionnaires (objective 2). Third, exploratory data analysis of deidentified HIV data sets (objective 3), and finally, piloting the framework to assess the feasibility of incorporating KPs UIC in RHIMS using findings from objectives 1, 2, and 3 (objective 4). Qualitative and quantitative data will be analyzed using ATLAS.ti (version 6; ATLAS.ti Scientific Software Development GmbH) and Python (version 3.8; Python Software Foundation) programming language, respectively. RESULTS The results will encompass a systematic review of literature, qualitative interviews, and document reviews, along with exploratory analysis of deidentified routine program data and findings from the pilot study. The systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews; CRD42023440656). Data collection is planned to commence in September 2024 and expected results for all objectives will be published by December 2025. CONCLUSIONS The study will produce a framework to be recommended for the inclusion of the KP UIC national rollout. The study results will contribute to the knowledge base around the inclusion of KPs UIC in RHIMS data. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42023440656; https://tinyurl.com/msnppany. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/55092.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mashudu Rampilo
- South African Medical Research Council/University of Johannesburg (SAMRC/UJ) Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research (PACER) Extramural Unit, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Edith Phalane
- South African Medical Research Council/University of Johannesburg (SAMRC/UJ) Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research (PACER) Extramural Unit, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Refilwe Nancy Phaswana-Mafuya
- South African Medical Research Council/University of Johannesburg (SAMRC/UJ) Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research (PACER) Extramural Unit, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gyamerah AO, Marr A, Maleke K, Manyuchi AE, Mirzazadeh A, Radebe O, Lane T, Puren A, Steward WT, Struthers H, Lippman SA. Correlates of viral suppression among sexual minority men and transgender women living with HIV in Mpumalanga, South Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003271. [PMID: 39038019 PMCID: PMC11262663 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Sexual minority men (SMM) and transgender women in South Africa engage in HIV care at lower rates than other persons living with HIV and may experience population-specific barriers to HIV treatment and viral suppression (VS). As part of a pilot trial of an SMM-tailored peer navigation (PN) intervention in Ehlanzeni district, South Africa, we assessed factors associated with ART use and VS among SMM at trial enrolment. A total of 103 HIV-positive SMM and transgender women enrolled in the pilot trial. Data on clinical visits and ART adherence were self-reported. VS status was verified through laboratory analysis (<1000 copies/ml). We assessed correlates of VS at baseline using Poisson generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link function, including demographic, psychosocial, clinical, and behavioral indicators. Among participants, 52.4% reported ART use and only 42.2% of all participants had evidence of VS. Of the 49.5% who reported optimal engagement in HIV care (consistent clinic visits with pills never missed for ≥ 4 consecutive days) in the past 3-months, 56.0% were virally suppressed. In multivariable analysis, SMM were significantly more likely to be virally suppressed when they were ≥ 25 years of age (Adjusted prevalence ratio [APR] = 2.0, CI 95%:1.0-3.8); in a relationship but not living with partner, as compared to married, living together, or single (APR = 1.7, CI 95%:1.0-2.7), and optimally engaged in care (APR = 2.1, 95% CI:1.3-3.3). Findings indicate a need for targeted treatment and care support programming, especially for SMM and transgender women who are young and married/living with their partners to improve treatment outcomes among this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akua O. Gyamerah
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Alexander Marr
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | | | | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Oscar Radebe
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tim Lane
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Adrian Puren
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Virology School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Wayne T. Steward
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Helen Struthers
- Anova Health Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Division of Infectious Diseases & HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sheri A. Lippman
- Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scheim AI, Rich AJ, Zubizarreta D, Malik M, Baker KE, Restar AJ, van der Merwe LA, Wang J, Beebe B, Ridgeway K, Baral SD, Poteat T, Reisner SL. Health status of transgender people globally: A systematic review of research on disease burden and correlates. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299373. [PMID: 38466747 PMCID: PMC10927095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299373] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Transgender and gender diverse (trans) health research has grown rapidly, highlighting the need to characterize the scientific evidence base. We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed research on disease burden and correlates in trans adolescents and adults over a 20-month period to identify knowledge gaps and assess methodological characteristics including measurement of gender identity, community engagement, and study quality. DATA SOURCES, ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, AND SYNTHESIS METHODS We searched seven databases using terms related to (a) transgender populations and (b) health or disease. Eligible studies were in English, French, or Spanish and reported original quantitative data on mental health or substance use conditions, infectious diseases, or non-communicable conditions in at least 25 trans individuals aged 15+. Quality assessment was performed in duplicate on a 10% sample of articles and findings were summarized using narrative synthesis. RESULTS The 328 included studies were conducted in 45 countries, with most from North America (54%) and limited research from South Asia (3%), Sub-Saharan Africa (3%), and the Middle East and North Africa (2%). Most studies used cross-sectional designs (73%) and convenience sampling (65%). Only 30% of studies reported any form of community engagement. Mental health and substance use disorders were the most studied area (77% of studies) and non-communicable conditions the least (16%). Available data indicated that trans populations experience high disease burden with considerable heterogeneity within and across settings. Of 39 articles assessed for quality, 80% were rated as fair, 18% as poor, and 3% as good quality. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Geographic, gender-specific, and topical gaps remain in trans health, but we found more research from African countries, with transmasculine people, and on non-communicable conditions than previous syntheses. Areas for growth in trans health research include community engagement, non-binary health, chronic and age-related conditions, and health determinants. REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021234043.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayden I. Scheim
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashleigh J. Rich
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Dougie Zubizarreta
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Mannat Malik
- Department of Health Behaviour, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kellan E. Baker
- Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Arjee J. Restar
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Leigh Ann van der Merwe
- Social, Health and Empowerment Feminist Collective of Transgender Women of Africa (S.H.E.), East London, South Africa
| | - June Wang
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Bianca Beebe
- School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kathleen Ridgeway
- School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stefan D. Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Sari L. Reisner
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Darbes LA, El Ayadi AM, Gilvydis JM, Morris J, Raphela E, Naidoo E, Grignon JS, Barnhart S, Lippman SA. Depression and HIV Care-seeking Behaviors in a Population-based Sample in North West Province, South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3852-3862. [PMID: 37329471 PMCID: PMC10598108 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04102-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Depression is associated with key HIV-related prevention and treatment behaviors in sub-Saharan Africa. We aimed to identify the association of depressive symptoms with HIV testing, linkage to care, and ART adherence among a representative sample of 18-49 year-olds in a high prevalence, rural area of South Africa. Utilizing logistic regression models (N = 1044), depressive symptoms were inversely associated with reported ever HIV testing (AOR 0.92, 95% CI 0.85-0.99; p = 0.04) and ART adherence (AOR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.73-0.91; p < 0.01) among women. For men, depressive symptoms were positively associated with linkage to care (AOR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.09-1.34; p < 0.01). Depression may adversely impact ART adherence for HIV-positive women and reduce the likelihood of HIV testing for women not aware of their HIV status which, in settings with high HIV prevalence, carries severe consequences. For HIV-positive men, findings suggest that depression may encourage help-seeking behavior, thereby impacting their health system interactions. These findings underscore the need for health-care settings to factor mental health, such as depression, into their programs to address health-related outcomes, particularly for women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynae A Darbes
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alison M El Ayadi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer M Gilvydis
- Department of Global Health, Schools of Medicine and Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jessica Morris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elsie Raphela
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Evasen Naidoo
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Jessica S Grignon
- Department of Global Health, Schools of Medicine and Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH), South Africa, Pretoria, Republic of South Africa
| | - Scott Barnhart
- Department of Global Health, Schools of Medicine and Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Schools of Medicine and Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sheri A Lippman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Stevens O, Anderson RL, Sabin K, Garcia SA, Fearon E, Manda K, Dikobe W, Crowell TA, Tally L, Mulenga L, Philip NM, Maheu-Giroux M, McIntyre A, Hladik W, Zhao J, Mahy M, Eaton JW. HIV prevalence in transgender populations and cisgender men who have sex with men in sub-Saharan Africa 2010-2022: a meta-analysis. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.11.09.23298289. [PMID: 37986978 PMCID: PMC10659462 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.09.23298289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026 calls for equitable and equal access to HIV prevention and treatment programmes for all populations to reduce HIV incidence and end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Transgender populations (TGP), including transmen (TGM) and transwomen (TGW) are populations that have been marginalised and are at high risk of HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Limited surveillance data on HIV among TGP are available in the region to guide programmatic responses and policymaking. Surveillance data on cisgender men who have sex with men (cis-MSM) are comparatively abundant and may be used to infer TGP HIV prevalence. Methods Data from key population surveys conducted in SSA between 2010-2022 were identified from existing databases and survey reports. Studies that collected HIV prevalence on both TGP and cis-MSM populations were analysed in a random effect meta-analysis to estimate the ratio of cis-MSM:TGW HIV prevalence. Results Eighteen studies were identified encompassing 8,052 TGW and 19,492 cis-MSM. TGW HIV prevalence ranged from 0-71.6% and cis-MSM HIV prevalence from 0.14-55.7%. HIV prevalence in TGW was 50% higher than in cis-MSM (prevalence ratio (PR) 1.50 95% CI 1.26-1.79). TGW HIV prevalence was highly correlated with year/province-matched cis-MSM HIV prevalence (R2 = 0.62), but poorly correlated with year/province-matched total population HIV prevalence (R2 = 0.1). Five TGM HIV prevalence estimates were identified ranging from 1-24%. Insufficient TGM data were available to estimate cis-MSM:TGM HIV prevalence ratios. Conclusion Transgender women experience a significantly greater HIV burden than cis-MSM in SSA. Bio-behavioural surveys designed and powered to measure determinants of HIV infection, treatment coverage, and risk behaviours among transgender populations, distinct from cis-MSM, will improve understanding of HIV risk and vulnerabilities among TGP and support improved programmes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Stevens
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L. Anderson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Sabin
- Data for Impact, The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sonia Arias Garcia
- Data for Impact, The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Trevor A. Crowell
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethseda, USA
| | - Leigh Tally
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Neena M. Philip
- ICAP, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Anne McIntyre
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Global HIV & TB, Atlanta, USA
| | - Wolfgang Hladik
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Center for Global Health, Division of Global HIV & TB, Atlanta, USA
| | - Jinkou Zhao
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mary Mahy
- Data for Impact, The Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jeffrey W. Eaton
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alessi EJ, Lee YG, Chikalogwe VP, Tarusarira W, Raymond H, Lynn M, Kahn S. Pilot study of an arts- and theatre-based HIV prevention intervention for men who have sex with men and transgender women migrants in South Africa: acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2023; 38:392-411. [PMID: 37229526 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyad021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Innovative approaches addressing the elevated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) risk among men who have sex with men (MSM) or transgender women (TGW) migrants in South Africa are urgently needed. We sought to present the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of 'Externalize and Mobilize!', a multi-session arts- and theatre-based HIV prevention group intervention for MSM and TGW migrants in South Africa. Fourteen participants-MSM (n = 7; 50%), genderqueer/nonbinary persons (n = 4; 29%) and TGW (n = 3; 21%)-in Cape Town were recruited and enrolled in the intervention and administered pre- and post-intervention assessments of HIV knowledge, HIV risk-reduction self-efficacy, stigma and resilience. The intervention, delivered over 4 days, was completed by all 14 participants. Scores on HIV knowledge and HIV risk-reduction self-efficacy were statistically significantly higher at post-intervention compared with pre-intervention. Additionally, participants responded affirmatively (i.e. 'Agree' or 'Strongly agree') on all items assessing intervention acceptability. Findings demonstrate the high acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an arts- and theatre-based intervention for increasing HIV knowledge and HIV risk-reduction self-efficacy among MSM and TGW migrants in South Africa. This study provides further support for the use of creative and innovative interventions to address entrenched HIV disparities in South Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E J Alessi
- Rutgers University School of Social Work, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Y G Lee
- Rutgers University School of Social Work, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | | | - W Tarusarira
- PASSOP, Cape Town, Western Cape 8001, South Africa
| | - H Raymond
- Rutgers University School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - M Lynn
- Rutgers University School of Social Work, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - S Kahn
- McGill University School of Social Work, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1B9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Le Roux M, Ngwenya IK, Nemarude AL, De Villiers BE, Mathebula M, Nchabeleng M. Sexually transmitted infections and sexual behaviour among men having sex with men from Tshwane, South Africa. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:183-190. [PMID: 36542494 DOI: 10.1177/09564624221146673] [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: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men having sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including extra-urethral infections. This study aimed to provide information on the presence of genital and extra-genital non-viral STIs and associated risk factors among MSM in the Tshwane district of South Africa. METHOD Samples were collected from 200 MSM in the North-western area of Tshwane. After the completion of a questionnaire including demographics and sexual history and an HIV test, three swabs (pharyngeal, rectal, and urethral) were collected and tested for the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). RESULTS Data were collected from 199 participants and 77/199 (38.7%) participants had at least one infection regardless of specimen site. Of these 34 (17.1%) were infected with NG; 36 (18.1%) with CT, 16 (8.1%) with MG and 14 (7.0%) with TV. NG and CT were most frequently detected in rectal specimens. The HIV prevalence in this study was 66.8% (133/199), with 56 (28.1%) of participants both STI and HIV positive. Being between 18 and 20 years, and difficulty having safe sex (more sex partners and more often condomless anal sex) when high/drunk were significantly associated with having an STI. Factors with increased odds of having an STI were being HIV positive, having two or more sexual partners, depending on partner financially, performing and receiving rimming, or receiving anal sex. CONCLUSIONS This study has highlighted the high burden of STIs in MSM in the local community, especially the prevalence of these pathogens in extra-genital sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelle Le Roux
- Department of Microbiological Pathology, 371046Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Innocent K Ngwenya
- Department of Microbiological Pathology, 371046Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Avhammbudzi L Nemarude
- Department of Microbiological Pathology, 371046Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Barbara E De Villiers
- Department of Microbiological Pathology, 371046Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Matsontso Mathebula
- Mecru Clinical Research Unit, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Maphoshane Nchabeleng
- Department of Microbiological Pathology, 371046Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa.,Dr George Mukhari Tertiary Laboratory, National Health Laboratory Service, Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kloek M, Bulstra CA, van Noord L, Al‐Hassany L, Cowan FM, Hontelez JAC. HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men, transgender women and cisgender male sex workers in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26022. [PMID: 36419343 PMCID: PMC9684687 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Developing effective targets, policies and services for key populations requires estimations of population sizes and HIV prevalence across countries and regions. We estimated the relative and absolute HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women and men, and male and transgender sex workers (MSW and TGSW) in sub-Saharan African countries using peer-reviewed literature. METHODS We performed a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies assessing HIV prevalence in MSM, transgender women and men, MSW and TGSW in sub-Saharan Africa between 2010 and 2021, following PRISMA guidelines. We searched Embase, Medline Epub, Africa Index Medicus, Africa Journal Online, Web of Science and Google Scholar. We calculated HIV prevalence ratios (PRs) between the study prevalence, and the geospatial-, sex, time and age-matched general population prevalence. We extrapolated results for MSM and transgender women to estimate HIV prevalence and the number living with HIV for each country in sub-Saharan Africa using pooled review results, and regression approximations for countries with no peer-reviewed data. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We found 44 articles assessing HIV prevalence in MSM, 10 in transgender women, five in MSW and zero in transgender men and TGSW. Prevalence among MSM and transgender women was significantly higher compared to the general population: PRs of 11.3 [CI: 9.9-12.9] for MSM and 8.1 [CI: 6.9-9.6] for transgender women in Western and Central Africa, and, respectively, 1.9 [CI: 1.7-2.0] and 2.1 [CI: 1.9-2.4] in Eastern and Southern Africa. Prevalence among MSW was significantly higher in both Nigeria (PR: 12.4 [CI: 7.3-21.0]) and Kenya (PR: 8.6 [CI: 4.6-15.6]). Extrapolating our findings for MSM and transgender women resulted in an estimated HIV prevalence of 15% or higher for about 60% of all sub-Saharan African countries for MSM, and for all but two countries for transgender women. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevalence among MSM and transgender women throughout sub-Saharan Africa is alarmingly high. This high prevalence, coupled with the specific risks and vulnerabilities faced by these populations, highlights the urgent need for risk-group-tailored prevention and treatment interventions across the sub-continent. There is a clear gap in knowledge on HIV prevalence among transgender men, MSW and TGSW in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariëlle Kloek
- Department of Public HealthErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Caroline A. Bulstra
- Department of Public HealthErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands,Heidelberg Institute of Global HealthMedical Faculty and University HospitalHeidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Laura van Noord
- Department of Public HealthErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Lina Al‐Hassany
- Department of Public HealthErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Frances M. Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) ZimbabweHarareZimbabwe,Department of International Public HealthLiverpool School of Tropical MedicineLiverpoolUK
| | - Jan A. C. Hontelez
- Department of Public HealthErasmus MC, University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands,Heidelberg Institute of Global HealthMedical Faculty and University HospitalHeidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kashiha J, Ross M, Rider N. Distinguishing trans women in men who have sex with men populations and their health access in East Africa: A Tanzanian study. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2022; 14:e1-e8. [PMID: 36073130 PMCID: PMC9453134 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v14i1.3428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Few data are available on the presence and characteristics of transgender populations in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), which makes the provision of health services for key populations difficult. Aim This study aimed to ascertain the presence and characteristics of trans women in seven cities in Tanzania, East Africa. Setting Tanzania, East Africa. Methods Outreach to men who have sex with men (MSM) in seven large cities in Tanzania was carried out by non-governmental organisation (NGO) staff familiar with this community. Survey questions administered via interviews were used to identify participants who self-identify as trans. From the self-identification data, an estimate of the relative size of the trans women population in this sample was calculated. Results In the sample of 300 participants, 17.0% of participants were identified as ‘transsexual or transgender’ (survey wording); 70.1% of these trans participants indicated that they identify themselves as a woman. Of those identifying themselves as transsexual or transgender, 43.1% reported living part- or full-time as a woman and eight (15.0%) reported hormone use. The highest percentage of hormone use (40.0%) was found in those living as a woman full-time. Notably, there was significant ignorance amongst the sample of the terms ‘transsexual and transgender’ or their explanation in Swahili, reported by interviewers. Conclusion In this study, it is clear that trans women populations exist in Tanzania, with high levels of stigmatisation and threats to their lives. They should be included in health outreach and services to key populations. One in six self-identified as trans women, although the lack of knowledge of this concept in Swahili or English may have inaccurately represented numbers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Kashiha
- Community Health Education Services and Advocacy (CHESA), Dar es Salaam.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Napierala S, Chabata ST, Davey C, Fearon E, Busza J, Mushati P, Mugurungi O, Hatzold K, Cambiano V, Phillips A, Hargreaves JR, Cowan FM. Engagement in HIV services over time among young women who sell sex in Zimbabwe. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270298. [PMID: 35763532 PMCID: PMC9239457 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young female sex workers (FSW) are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV. Zimbabwe data show higher HIV incidence and lower engagement in services compared to older FSW. Utilizing data from a combination HIV prevention and treatment intervention, we describe engagement in the HIV services over time among FSW 18-24 years, compared to those ≥25 years of age. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data were collected via respondent-driven sampling (RDS) surveys in 14 communities in 2013 and 2016, with >2500 FSW per survey. They included blood samples for HIV and viral load testing. As the intervention had no significant impact on HIV care cascade outcomes, data were aggregated across study arms. Analyses used RDS-II estimation. RESULTS Mean age in 2013 and 2016 was 31 and 33 years, with 27% and 17% aged 18-24 years. Overall HIV prevalence was 59% at each timepoint, and 35% and 36% among younger FSW. From 2013 to 2016 there was an increase in young HIV-positive FSW knowing their status (38% vs 60%, OR = 2.51, p<0.01). Outcomes for all FSW improved significantly over time at all steps of the cascade, and the relative change over time was similar among older versus younger FSW for most cascade variables. DISCUSSION Young FSW had improvements in care cascade outcomes, and proportionate improvements similar to older FSW, yet they remain less engaged in services overall. This implies that the dedicated FSW services in Zimbabwe are having a comparably positive impact across age groups, however more is likely required to address young FSW's unique vulnerabilities and needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sue Napierala
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Sungai T. Chabata
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Calum Davey
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Fearon
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Busza
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phillis Mushati
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Karin Hatzold
- Population Services International, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Valentina Cambiano
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Phillips
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James R. Hargreaves
- Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M. Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
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: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Harris TG, Wu Y, Parmley LE, Musuka G, Mapingure MP, Chingombe I, Mugurungi O, Hakim A, Gozhora P, Miller SS, Lamb MR, Samba C, Rogers JH. HIV care cascade and associated factors among men who have sex with men, transgender women, and genderqueer individuals in Zimbabwe: findings from a biobehavioural survey using respondent-driven sampling. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e182-e201. [PMID: 35150606 PMCID: PMC10654134 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00297-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women, and genderqueer individuals are at greater risk for HIV than the general population although little data are available from these groups in Zimbabwe, a country with a national adult HIV prevalence of 12·9%. We aimed to examine progress towards the UNAIDS 90-90-90 treatment targets and factors associated with meeting the targets among a sample of MSM, transgender women, and genderqueer individuals in Zimbabwe. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey in 2019, we used respondent-driven sampling to identify MSM, transgender women, and genderqueer individuals aged at least 18 years to participate in a biobehavioural survey in Harare and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Participants were eligible to participate if they were assigned male at birth; had engaged in anal or oral sex with a man in the past 12 months; resided in Harare or Bulawayo for at least 1 month; spoke English, Shona, or Ndebele; provided written informed consent; and were in possession of a valid recruitment coupon if applicable. Enrolled participants completed a questionnaire and underwent HIV testing, and off-site viral load testing was done on all HIV-positive samples. Unweighted bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of sociodemographic, behavioural, and other factors with HIV-positive status awareness among MSM, transgender women, and genderqueer individuals, and with viral load suppression among MSM. Analyses were done firstly using self-reported information and then by classifying those with a viral load of less than 200 copies per mL as being aware of their status and on treatment (viral load recategorisation). FINDINGS Among MSM, 248 (21%; 95% CI 19-24) of 1176 tested positive for HIV. Of those who tested positive, based on self-report, 119 (48%; 95% CI 42-54) reported knowing their HIV status, of whom 112 (94%; 88-98) reported using antiretroviral therapy (ART), of whom 89 (79%; 71-87) had viral load suppression. Based on viral load recategorisation, 180 (73%; 67-78) of 248 MSM testing HIV positive reported knowing their HIV status, of whom 174 (97%; 93-99) reported using ART, of whom 151 (87%; 81-91) had viral load suppression. 92 (28%; 23-33) of 335 transgender women and genderqueer individuals tested positive for HIV. Based on self-reports from these individuals 34 (37%; 27-48) of 92 participants reported knowing their HIV status, of whom 31 (91%; 76-98) reported using ART, of whom 27 (87%; 70-96%) had viral load suppression. Based on viral load recategorisation of data from transgender women and genderqueer participants, 53 (58%; 47-58) of 92 reported awareness of their HIV status, of whom 50 (94%; 84-99) reported using ART, of whom 46 (92%; 81-98) had viral load suppression. HIV-positive MSM aged 18-24 years had lower odds of being aware of their status than those aged at least 35 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0·34; 95% CI 0·13-0·92), as did HIV-positive MSM aged 25-34 years (aOR 0·26; 0·12-0·56). HIV-positive MSM aged 18-24 years also had a lower odds of having viral load suppression than those aged 35 years and older (aOR 0·35; 0·16-0·78), as did those aged 25-34 years (aOR 0·36; 0·19-0·67). No factors were significantly associated with awareness among transgender women and genderqueer individuals in multivariable models. INTERPRETATION Our survey showed that HIV prevalence was high and the largest difference between our results and the 90-90-90 treatment targets was in HIV status awareness, indicating the need for improvements in engaging MSM (especially young MSM), transgender women, and genderqueer individuals in HIV testing services. FUNDING US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany G Harris
- ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Yingfeng Wu
- ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Owen Mugurungi
- AIDS and TB Programme, Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Avi Hakim
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Matthew R Lamb
- ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - John H Rogers
- Division of Global HIV and TB, Center for Global Health, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Harare, Zimbabwe
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Garofalo R, Adetunji A, Kuhns LM, Omigbodun O, Johnson AK, Kuti K, Awolude OA, Berzins B, Janulis P, Okonkwor O, Oladeji B, Muldoon AL, Amoo OP, Atunde H, Kapogiannis B, Taiwo BO. Evaluation of the iCARE Nigeria Pilot Intervention Using Social Media and Peer Navigation to Promote HIV Testing and Linkage to Care Among High-Risk Young Men: A Nonrandomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e220148. [PMID: 35191969 PMCID: PMC8864509 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Nigeria has the fourth-largest HIV epidemic globally, yet high levels of social stigma inhibit HIV testing among Nigerian youths and young men who have sex with men (MSM). OBJECTIVE To report pilot data from iCARE Nigeria (Intensive Combination Approach to Roll Back the Epidemic in Nigerian Adolescents), a combination intervention using social media and peer navigation to promote HIV testing and linkage to care among high-risk youths and young men (hereinafter referred to as young men), including predominantly young MSM. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This nonrandomized controlled study assessed an organizational and community-level 12-month, preintervention-postintervention pilot trial of a combination intervention designed to increase HIV testing uptake, increase the rate of identified seropositive cases, and improve linkage to care among young men, including MSM, using social media outreach and peer navigation. Data were collected from June 1, 2019, to May 30, 2020. Participants were young men aged 15 to 24 years in the city of Ibadan, Nigeria, and surrounding areas. Frequencies and percentages were examined, and a Fisher exact test was used to evaluate outcomes compared with historical surveillance data. Linkage to care was defined as 2 clinic visits, including HIV confirmation, within 2 months of a positive rapid test result. INTERVENTION Four peer navigators conducted social media outreach promoting sexual health and guiding individuals to HIV counseling and rapid testing in clinical, community, or home-based settings. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary outcomes included the number of young men tested for HIV at university-based iCARE catchment clinics or by iCARE peer navigators in the community, the postintervention HIV seroprevalence of these groups, and linkage to care of participants diagnosed with HIV infection. RESULTS A total of 339 participants underwent testing for HIV (mean [SD] age, 21.7 [1.9] years), with 283 (83.5%) referred through social media. The main referral sources for social media were WhatsApp (124 [43.8%]), Facebook (101 [35.7%]), and Grindr (57 [20.1%]). Regarding testing location, participants chose home (134 [39.5%]), community-based (202 [59.6%]), or clinic (3 [0.9%]) settings. Eighty-six participants reported no prior HIV testing. Thirty-six participants (10.6%) were confirmed as HIV seropositive; among those, 18 (50.0%) reported negative test results within the past year, and 31 (86.1%) were linked to care. In two 6-month follow-up periods, the intervention increased HIV testing by 42% and 31%, respectively, and seroprevalence increased compared with historical trends with odds ratios of 3.37 (95% CI, 1.43-8.02; P = .002) and 2.74 (95% CI, 1.10-7.11; P = .02), respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE These findings suggest that use of iCARE Nigeria was associated with increased HIV testing and linkage to care in a high-risk, difficult-to-reach population, making it a promising combination intervention for young MSM. TRIAL REGISTRATION isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN94590823.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Garofalo
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Adedotun Adetunji
- Department of Family Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Lisa M. Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Olayinka Omigbodun
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Amy K. Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kehinde Kuti
- Department of Family Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olutosin A. Awolude
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Baiba Berzins
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Patrick Janulis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ogochukwu Okonkwor
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bibilola Oladeji
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Abigail L. Muldoon
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Oluwaseun P. Amoo
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Hannah Atunde
- Infectious Disease Institute, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bill Kapogiannis
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Babafemi O. Taiwo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Global Health, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mwaniki SW, Mugo PM, Palanee-Phillips T. Project BESPOKE (Integrated Bio-Behavioral Assessment of HIV and STI Among Young Tertiary Student Men Who Have Sex With Men in Nairobi, Kenya): A Respondent-Driven Sampling Survey Protocol. Front Public Health 2021; 9:619694. [PMID: 34708012 PMCID: PMC8542710 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.619694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM) are a key population for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Among MSM, young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). However, there is a dearth of research and interventions targeting HIV/STI prevention among YMSM. In Kenya, there is paucity of knowledge on the burden of HIV/STI and related factors among YMSM, including tertiary student men who have sex with men (TSMSM). The barriers TSMSM experience in accessing and utilizing health services in their learning institutions have seldom been explored. In the context of healthcare providers (HCP) working in tertiary institutions, little is known about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward providing services to TSMSM. Methods: The aims of the study are to: estimate prevalence and correlates of HIV/STI among TSMSM; estimate population size of TSMSM; explore experiences of TSMSM with access and utilization of health services; and assess HCP knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in provision of services to TSMSM. A mixed-methods approach will be used in three phases: Phase I-formative qualitative research will be conducted to understand TSMSM social networks, select "seeds", and explore strategies for implementing a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey. Interviews will be conducted with at least three staff who work in community based/non-governmental organizations (CBO/NGO) that serve MSM and at least 10 TSMSM. Phase II-an integrated bio-behavioral assessment (IBBA) will be conducted, where 200 TSMSM recruited by RDS will be offered HIV/STI testing, complete a behavioral survey, and provide information for population size estimation (PSE). Phase III-in-depth interviews will be held with 20 TSMSM selected from 200 TSMSM in phase II, to explore their experiences with access and utilization of healthcare services. Focus group discussions (FGD) will be conducted with HCP working in tertiary institutions to assess their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in providing services to TSMSM. Data collection started in September 2020 and is expected to end by September 2021. Discussion: Findings from this study will be useful in informing HIV/STI prevention programming for TSMSM, by policy makers such the Kenyan ministries of health and education, tertiary education institutions, service providers, advocacy groups, and other interested stakeholders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Waweru Mwaniki
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University Health Services, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Mwangi Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fearon E, Bourne A, Tenza S, Palanee‐Phillips T, Kabuti R, Weatherburn P, Nutland W, Kimani J, Smith AD. Online socializing among men who have sex with men and transgender people in Nairobi and Johannesburg and implications for public health-related research and health promotion: an analysis of qualitative and respondent-driven sampling survey data. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 6:e25603. [PMID: 33000904 PMCID: PMC7527758 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is little published literature about gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men and transgender individuals (MSM and TG)'s use of social media in sub-Saharan Africa, despite repressive social and/or criminalizing contexts that limit access to physical HIV prevention. We sought to describe MSM and TG's online socializing in Nairobi and Johannesburg, identifying the characteristics of those socializing online and those not, in order to inform the development of research and health promotion in online environments. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling surveys were conducted in 2017 in Nairobi (n = 618) and Johannesburg (n = 301) with those reporting current male gender identity or male sex assigned at birth and sex with a man in the last 12 months. Online socializing patterns, sociodemographic, sexual behaviour and HIV-testing data were collected. We examined associations between social media use and sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviours among all, and only those HIV-uninfected, using logistic regression. Analyses were RDS-II weighted. Thirty qualitative interviews were conducted with MSM and TG in each city, which examined the broader context of and motivations for social media use. RESULTS Most MSM and TG had used social media to socialize with MSM in the last month (60% Johannesburg, 71% Nairobi), mostly using generic platforms (e.g. Facebook), but also gay-specific (e.g. Grindr). HIV-uninfected MSM and TG reporting riskier recent sexual behaviours had raised odds of social media use in Nairobi, including receptive anal intercourse (adjusted OR = 2.15, p = 0.006), buying (aOR = 2.24, p = 0.015) and selling sex with men (aOR = 2.17, p = 0.004). Evidence for these associations was weaker in Johannesburg, though socializing online was associated with condomless anal intercourse (aOR = 3.67, p = 0.003) and active syphilis (aOR = 13.50, p = 0.016). Qualitative findings indicated that while online socializing can limit risk of harm inherent in face-to-face interactions, novel challenges were introduced, including context collapse and a fear of blackmail. CONCLUSIONS Most MSM and TG in these cities socialize online regularly. Users reported HIV acquisition risk behaviours, yet this space is not fully utilized for sexual health promotion and research engagement. Effective, safe and acceptable means of using online channels to engage with MSM/TG that account for MSM and TG's strategies and concerns for managing online security should now be explored, as complements or alternatives to existing outreach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Fearon
- Department of Global Health & DevelopmentLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Adam Bourne
- Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health & SocietyLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Siyanda Tenza
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV InstituteSchool of Clinical MedicineUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Thesla Palanee‐Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV InstituteSchool of Clinical MedicineUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | | | - Peter Weatherburn
- Sigma ResearchDepartment of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Will Nutland
- Sigma ResearchDepartment of Public Health, Environments and SocietyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Partners for Health and DevelopmentNairobiKenya
- Department of Community Health SciencesUniversity of Manitoba (UoM)WinnipegCanada
| | - Adrian D Smith
- Nuffield Department of Population HealthUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|