1
|
Bogart LM, Musoke W, Mayatsa J, Marsh T, Naigino R, Banegura A, Mukama CS, Allupo S, Odiit M, Kadama H, Mukasa B, Wanyenze RK. Recommendations for Improving Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Implementation and Social Marketing in Ugandan Fisherfolk Communities: A Qualitative Exploration. COMMUNITY HEALTH EQUITY RESEARCH & POLICY 2024; 44:189-199. [PMID: 36194425 PMCID: PMC10070557 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x221113608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: HIV is hyperendemic among fisherfolk in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially around Lake Victoria, Uganda. Purpose/Research Design: We conducted cross-sectional semi-structured interviews about oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation with 35 Ugandan fisherfolk (15 women, 20 men) and 10 key stakeholders (healthcare providers, policymakers, community leaders). We used a directed content analysis approach based on implementation science and social marketing frameworks. Results: Participants showed high acceptability for PrEP. Anticipated barriers among fisherfolk included stigma (due to similar medications/packaging as HIV treatment); misconceptions; mobility, competing needs, poverty, and partner conflict. Anticipated provider barriers included insufficient staffing and travel support. Recommendations included: change PrEP packaging; integrate PrEP with other services; decrease PrEP refill frequency; give transportation resources to providers; train more healthcare workers to provide PrEP to fisherfolk; and use positively framed messages to promote PrEP. Conclusions: Results can inform policymakers and healthcare organizations on how to overcome barriers to PrEP scale-up in most at-risk populations with poor healthcare access.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jimmy Mayatsa
- Ministry of Health, Republic of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Terry Marsh
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, United States
| | - Rose Naigino
- Ministry of Health, Republic of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Naigino R, Miller AP, Ediau M, Anecho A, Senoga U, Tumwesigye NM, Wanyenze RK, Mukasa B, Hahn JA, Reed E, Sileo KM, Kiene SM. Stakeholder perspectives on the Kisoboka intervention: A behavioral and structural intervention to reduce hazardous alcohol use and improve HIV care engagement among men living with HIV in Ugandan fishing communities. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 253:111011. [PMID: 37952352 PMCID: PMC11016226 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND East Africa's fishing communities experience a high burden of two interrelated and frequently co-occurring health issues: HIV and hazardous alcohol use. Nearly two-thirds of Ugandan fisherfolk men meet the criteria for harmful alcohol use. We developed a multilevel intervention to reduce hazardous alcohol use and improve HIV care engagement among fisherfolk men living with HIV (LWHIV) in Wakiso district, Uganda. METHODS This is a qualitative study of stakeholder perspectives on the appropriateness, acceptability, and feasibility of a multilevel intervention for fisherfolk men LWHIV. The proposed intervention, Kisoboka ("It is possible!"), combines a structural component [changing the mode of work payments from cash to mobile money] with a behavioral component [motivational interviewing-based counseling combined with content using behavioral economic principles to promote behavior change]. We conducted one focus group (n=7) and eight in-depth interviews with fisherfolk men LWHIV and 19 key informant (KI) interviews with health workers, employers, and community leaders. These explored the appropriateness, acceptability, and feasibility of specific key intervention components. RESULTS Overall, stakeholders' perspectives supported high intervention acceptability and perceived appropriateness of the proposed intervention. It was perceived to be feasible with some caveats of recommendations for overcoming potential implementation challenges identified (e.g., having a friend assist with documenting savings and alcohol use if an individual was unable to write themselves) which are discussed. CONCLUSION This work highlights the potential of the Kisoboka intervention and the importance of early engagement of key stakeholders in the intervention development process to ensure appropriateness, acceptability, feasibility, and socio-cultural fit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rose Naigino
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Diego State University School of Public Health, CA, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Amanda P Miller
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Diego State University School of Public Health, CA, USA
| | - Michael Ediau
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Diego State University School of Public Health, CA, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Asha Anecho
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Umar Senoga
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Judith A Hahn
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Reed
- Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Science, San Diego State University, CA, USA
| | - Katelyn M Sileo
- Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Susan M Kiene
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, San Diego State University School of Public Health, CA, USA; Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bahikire D, Nanyingi M, Atuhairwe C, Matama C, Ninsiima LR, Bbuye M. Risk perception and usage of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis among fisherfolk in Ggulwe parish on the shores of Lake Victoria in central Uganda. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1116317. [PMID: 38026329 PMCID: PMC10663348 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1116317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The use of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) to prevent HIV acquisition among those exposed as an approach to HIV prevention has expanded in Uganda. Although there are increased efforts to avail nPEP services among most at-risk populations, the usage of nPEP medicines remains low. Therefore, this study examined the risk perception and usage of non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) among fisherfolk in the Ggulwe fishing parish, Bussi sub-county, Wakiso district. Methods A cross-sectional study among adults was carried out from October 2020 to January 2021 in Ggulwe parish, Bussi sub-county, Wakiso district, to examine the usage of nPEP and factors influencing the usage. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, and key informants' interviews were conducted among healthcare providers and the local leadership. The quantitative data were summarized using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression, while the qualitative data were analyzed thematically to enrich the quantitative results. Results Overall, 248 fisherfolk encountered an event that required the use of nPEP, and of these, 55/248 (22.2%) were able to use nPEP to prevent them from acquiring HIV. The usage of nPEP among adults in the Bussi sub-county, Wakiso district, was associated with not knowing that HIV can be prevented using nPEP medicines (AOR:0.1, 95% CI 0.03-0.36, p < 0.001), lack of knowledge of the existence of nPEP (AOR: 0.3, 95% CI 0.13-0.76, p = 0.01), the perception that nPEP can effectively prevent HIV infection after exposure (AOR 0.0586, 95% CI: 0.0177-0.1944, p < 0.001), and the community's opinion affecting the willingness to take nPEP (AOR 0.1924, 95% CI: 0.0380-0.9727, p = 0.0462). Conclusion The usage of nPEP among fisherfolk was low (22.2%). The low usage of nPEP was associated with a lack of knowledge and awareness about nPEP. This effort to improve the usage of nPEP should include community sensitization and HIV infection prevention using nPEP to raise awareness about HIV infection exposures and the risk of HIV infection during non-occupational exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daraus Bahikire
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Uganda Martyrs University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Miisa Nanyingi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Uganda Martyrs University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Catherine Matama
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lesley Rose Ninsiima
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mudarshiru Bbuye
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ombere SO, Nyambedha EO. Non-adherence to antiretroviral treatment among migrating fishermen in western Kenya's islands: a rapid qualitative study. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2023; 22:237-243. [PMID: 38015894 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2023.2276375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Fishing communities in many Sub-Saharan African countries are a high-risk population group disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic. The association of migration with HIV and AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa is well documented. Frequent mobility, high consumption of alcohol, multiple sexual partners, transactional and commercial sex, poor health infrastructure and limited access to health services are reported among the main factors shaping the HIV epidemic in fishing communities. Moreover, studies have been conducted in sub-Saharan Africa on adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) among fishers; however, non-adherence to ART remains poorly understood among migrating fishermen in the western Kenya islands. This qualitative study investigated factors contributing to non-adherence among fishermen in the western Kenya islands. This study utilised 51 in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions to highlight factors contributing to non-adherence to ART by mobile fishermen. Data were analysed using a contextualised thematic analysis. Results show that migration, alcohol consumption and ART sharing contributed to non-adherence. Adherence to ART is a powerful predictor of survival for individuals living with HIV and AIDS. The Kenyan government can use lessons from this study to target fishermen to achieve the UNAIDS 2025 recommendations on people-centred and context-specific service responses to AIDS as this would move Kenya closer to the 90% reduction in annual infections by 2030. This article contributes to a deeper understanding of how and why fishermen from the islands in western Kenya struggle to adhere to treatment even though they can access ARTs through the public health care system. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to explore how the factors associated with non-adherence correlate with other key health outcomes such as drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Okumu Ombere
- Centre for the Advancement of Scholarships, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Maseno University, Kenya
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Oyet D, Niyonzima V, Akol G, Onyait E, Twinomugisha D, Kawala Wambera D, Wakida EK, Obua C. Barriers and Facilitators to Utilization of Community Drug Distribution Points Among People Living with HIV in Bushenyi District, South-Western Uganda: A Qualitative Study. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2023; 15:633-640. [PMID: 37869566 PMCID: PMC10588743 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s422040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction People living with HIV (PLHIV) still have challenges in accessing HIV services in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). In Uganda, community drug distribution points (CDDPs) are part of interventions to improve access to anti-retroviral medications. However, there is still low enrollment in CDDPs among PLHIV in south-western Uganda, particularly in Bushenyi district. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to the utilization of CDDPs among PLHIV. Methods This was a descriptive qualitative study utilizing a qualitative approach. We purposively recruited 24 PLHIV and 6 Primary healthcare providers as key informants. We conducted in-depth interviews with PLHIV and key informant interviews with Primary healthcare providers using an interview guide. The audio recordings were transcribed verbatim to Rukiga-Runyankore and then translated into English. Data were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Seven themes were developed describing drivers for the utilization of CDDPs. These were broadly categorized into facilitators and barriers. The main facilitators of the utilization of CDDPs were peer support, positive Primary healthcare providers' attitudes, satisfaction with HIV services, and accessibility of ART services. The main barriers were stigma, lack of physical infrastructure, and lack of comprehensive services. Conclusion and Recommendation Utilization of CDDPs is facilitated by accessibility and Primary healthcare providers' attitude. Stigma is still a limitation to the utilization of HIV services. We recommend that Ministry of Health and other development partners should improve physical infrastructural facilities at the CDDP sites so that the privacy and confidentiality of the PLHIV are protected. Focus on interventions to eliminate stigma by Primary healthcare providers and other stakeholders at CDDP sites is urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Oyet
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Vallence Niyonzima
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Gideon Akol
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Onyait
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Daphine Twinomugisha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Doreen Kawala Wambera
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Edith K Wakida
- Department of Medical Education, California University of Science and Medicine, Colton, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| | - Celestino Obua
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara City, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kiyingi J, Witte SS, Nabunya P, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Kizito S, Nattabi J, Nabayinda J, Ssewamala FM. Predictors of mobility among women engaged in commercial sex work in Uganda using generalized estimating equations model. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:633-640. [PMID: 37018458 PMCID: PMC10523898 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231167910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) are at a higher risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. WESW are highly mobile, and their mobility may increase their economic status, and increased access to healthcare and other social services. However, it may also facilitate the spread of HIV infection from higher to lower prevalence regions. This study examined the predictors of mobility among WESW in Uganda using a generalized estimating equations model. METHODS We defined and measured mobility as the change in residence by WESW between baseline, 6 months, and 12 months follow-up. Participants who changed places were considered mobile, and those who never changed were non-mobile. We used data from a longitudinal study, which recruited 542 WESW from Southern Uganda aged 18-55 years and constructed a Generalized Estimating Equations Model. RESULTS Findings show that 19.6% of WESW changed residence between baseline and 6 months of follow-up and 26.2% (cumulative) between baseline and 12 months of follow-up. Older women (OR = 0.966, 95% CI = 0.935, 0.997) were associated with decreased odds of mobility, whereas WESW who were HIV positive (OR = 1.475, 95% CI = 1.078, 2.018) and those from large households (OR = 1.066, 95% CI = 1.001, 1.134) were associated with increased odds of mobility. WESW residing in rural areas (OR = 0.535, 95% CI = 0.351, 0.817) were associated with decreased odds of mobility compared to those from fishing sites. CONCLUSION The results indicate risk factors for mobility, further research is needed to determine the directionality of these factors in order to design interventions addressing mobility among WESW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kyei-Arthur F, Kyei-Gyamfi S. Alcohol consumption and risky sexual behaviors among fishers in Elmina in Ghana. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1328. [PMID: 37434125 PMCID: PMC10337065 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16239-w] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol consumption is part of human social behavior and constitutes a routine part of social life in many countries. Prior studies have found over-indulgence of fishers in alcohol in fishing communities. The study uses the Alcohol Myopia Theory (AMT) to analyze and explain the phenomena of fishers engaging in sex after alcohol consumption, and condom use with sexual partner(s) after alcohol consumption. The study investigated alcohol consumption, predictors of alcohol consumption, and the reasons for drinking alcohol among fishers. It also examined fishers' engagement in sex after alcohol consumption, the use of condoms with sexual partners after drinking alcohol, and predictors of the use of condoms with sexual partners after drinking alcohol. METHODS A cross-sectional convergent parallel mixed-method design was used to study 385 fishers in Elmina. Also, two focus group discussions were conducted among male and female fishers. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data, while the qualitative data was analyzed thematically. RESULTS Generally, 59.2% of participants indulged in alcohol consumption. Most male participants (70.6%) indulged in alcohol consumption than female participants (48.5%). Also, 48.5% of participants indulged in binge alcohol consumption, while 38.1% indulged in moderate alcohol consumption. The predictors of alcohol consumption were sex, religion, and type of fishing occupation. Participants identified consuming alcohol to kill loneliness and boredom, to forget family and work-related issues, and to have fun as reasons why fishers consume alcohol. Sixty-four percent of participants have ever engaged in sexual intercourse after consuming alcohol in the past 12 months. However, 70% of participants did not use a condom the last time they had sex after drinking alcohol. Only ethnicity of participants predicted their use of a condom the last time they had sex after drinking alcohol. The primary reasons for the non-use of condoms were do not like using condoms (37.9%), forgetting to use a condom (33.0%), and had sex with a trusted regular partner (15.5%). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that alcohol consumption was prevalent among fishers, especially among male fishers, which contributes to risky sexual behaviors among them as espoused by the AMT. It is recommended that fishers are targeted for alcohol use and risky sexual behavior programs and interventions since alcohol use is prevalent among them and most of them also engage in unprotected sexual intercourse after consuming alcohol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Kyei-Arthur
- Department of Environment and Public Health, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana.
| | - Sylvester Kyei-Gyamfi
- Department of Children, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Accra, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ssewamala FM, Brathwaite R, Sensoy Bahar O, Namatovu P, Neilands TB, Kiyingi J, Huang KY, McKay MM. The Post-intervention Impact of Amaka Amasanyufu on Behavioral and Mental Health Functioning of Children and Adolescents in Low-Resource Communities in Uganda: Analysis of a Cluster-Randomized Trial From the SMART Africa-Uganda Study (2016-2022). J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:S3-S10. [PMID: 37062581 PMCID: PMC10442860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Disruptive behavioral disorders (DBDs) are common among children/adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. A 16-week manualized multiple family group (MFG) intervention called Amaka Amasanyufu designed to reduce DBDs among school-going children/adolescents in low-resource communities in Uganda was efficacious in reducing symptoms of poor mental health relative to usual care in the short-term (4 months post-intervention-initiation). We examined whether intervention effects are sustained 6 months postintervention. METHODS We used longitudinal data from 636 children positive for DBDs: (1) Control condition, 10 schools, n = 243; (2) MFG delivered via parent peers (MFG-PP), eight schools, n = 194 and; (3) MFG delivered via community healthcare workers (MFG-CHW), eight schools, n = 199 from the SMART Africa-Uganda study (2016-2022). All participants were blinded. We estimated three-level linear mixed-effects models and pairwise comparisons at 6 months postintervention and time-within-group effects to evaluate the impact on Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), impaired functioning, depressive symptoms, and self-concept. RESULTS At 6 months postintervention, children in MFG-PP and MFG-CHW groups had significantly lower means for ODD (mean difference [MD] = -1.08 and -1.35) impaired functioning (MD = -1.19 and -1.16), and depressive symptoms (MD = -1.06 and -0.83), than controls and higher means for self-concept (MD = 3.81 and 5.14). Most outcomes improved at 6 months compared to baseline. There were no differences between the two intervention groups. DISCUSSION The Amaka Amasanyufu intervention had sustained effects in reducing ODD, impaired functioning, and depressive symptoms and improving self-concept relative to usual care at 6 months postintervention. Our findings strengthen the evidence that the intervention effectively reduces DBDs and impaired functioning among young people in resource-limited settings and was sustained over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Phionah Namatovu
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; International Center for Child Health and Development - Uganda Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, California
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Keng-Yen Huang
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Mary M McKay
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri; Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Okello E, Ayieko P, Kwena Z, Nanyonjo G, Bahemuka U, Price M, Bukusi E, Hashim R, Nakamanya S, Okech B, Kuteesa M, Oketch B, Ssetaala A, Ruzagira E, Kidega W, Fast P, Kibengo F, Grosskurth H, Seeley J, Kapiga S. Acceptability and applicability of biometric iris scanning for the identification and follow up of highly mobile research participants living in fishing communities along the shores of Lake Victoria in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Int J Med Inform 2023; 172:105018. [PMID: 36774907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2023.105018] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recruitment and retention of participants in research studies conducted in fishing communities remain a challenge because of population mobility. Reliable and acceptable methods for identifying and tracking participants taking part in HIV prevention and treatment research are needed. The study aims to assess the acceptability, and technical feasibility of iris scans as a biometric identification method for research participants in fishing communities. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted in eight fishing communities in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, with follow-up after one month in a randomly selected subset of participants. All consenting participants had their iris scanned and then responded to the survey. RESULTS 1,199 participants were recruited. The median age was 33 [Interquartile range (IQR) 24-42] years; 56% were women. The overall acceptability of iris scanning was 99%, and the success rate was 98%. Eighty one percent (n = 949) had a successful scan on first attempt, 116 (10%) on second and 113 (9%) after more than two attempts. A month later, 30% (n = 341) of participants were followed up. The acceptability of repeat iris scanning was 99% (n = 340). All participants who accepted repeat iris scanning had successful scans, with 307 (90%) scans succeeding on first attempt; 25 (7%) on second attempt, and 8 (2%) after several attempts. The main reason for refusing iris scanning was fear of possible side effects of the scan on the eyes or body. CONCLUSION The acceptability and applicability of biometric iris scan as a technique for unique identification of research participants is high in fishing communities. However, successful use of the iris scanning technology in research will require education regarding the safety of the procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elialilia Okello
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, P.O Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania.
| | - Philip Ayieko
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, P.O Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, United Kingdom
| | - Zachary Kwena
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, KEMRI, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Ubaldo Bahemuka
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Uganda Research Unit & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Matt Price
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, NY, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Ramadhan Hashim
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, P.O Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Sarah Nakamanya
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Uganda Research Unit & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | | | - Bertha Oketch
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, KEMRI, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Eugene Ruzagira
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, United Kingdom; Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Uganda Research Unit & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Patricia Fast
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, NY, USA; Pediatric Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto CA, USA
| | - Freddie Kibengo
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Uganda Research Unit & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Heiner Grosskurth
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, P.O Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, United Kingdom; Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Uganda Research Unit & London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, National Institute for Medical Research, P.O Box 11936, Mwanza, Tanzania; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kremer C, Kamali A, Kuteesa M, Seeley J, Hens N, Nsubuga RN. Modelling the impact of combining HIV prevention interventions on HIV dynamics in fishing communities in Uganda. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:173. [PMID: 36949387 PMCID: PMC10031877 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08113-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In countries with mature generalized HIV epidemics such as Uganda, there are still groups of individuals that are disproportionately affected. Among the key populations in Uganda are fishing communities, which make up about 10% of the population. Compared to the general population, HIV prevalence and incidence among individuals living in these communities is high. This high HIV burden has been attributed to several factors including limited access to prevention and treatment services as well as ongoing high-risk sexual behaviour. METHODS We investigated the impact of combined HIV prevention interventions on HIV transmission dynamics in high-risk fishing communities in Uganda using a deterministic compartmental model. The model was calibrated to seroprevalence data from a census performed in 2014. To account for remaining uncertainty in the calibrated model parameters, 50 000 simulated scenarios were modelled to investigate the impact of combined prevention interventions. RESULTS The projected HIV incidence decreased from 1.87 per 100 PY without intervention scale-up to 0.25 per 100 PY after 15 years (2014-2029) of intervention scale-up. A potential combination achieving this 87% reduction in incidence over 15 years in Ugandan FCs included condom use in about 60% of sexual acts, 23% of susceptible men circumcised, 87% of people living with HIV aware of their status, 75% of those on ART, and about 3% of susceptible individuals on oral PrEP. Uncertainty analysis revealed relative reductions in incidence ranging from 30.9 to 86.8%. Sensitivity analyses suggested that condom use and early ART were the most important interventions. CONCLUSION Reducing HIV incidence, as well as prevalence and AIDS-related mortality, in these high-risk fishing communities in Uganda is attainable over 15 years with a combination prevention package. Our projected intervention coverage levels are well within the national targets set by the Uganda government and enable coming close to reaching the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Kremer
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (I-BioStat), Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.
| | | | - Monica Kuteesa
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Medical Research Council, Virus Research Unit & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM), Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Niel Hens
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (I-BioStat), Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Modelling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Rebecca N Nsubuga
- Medical Research Council, Virus Research Unit & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit (MRC/UVRI & LSHTM), Entebbe, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Nakamanya S, Nakyanjo N, Kennedy C, Ddaaki W, Ayanga C, Ssemwanga RJ, Jackson J, Grabowski MK, Seeley J. Understanding the drivers of preferential migration of people living with HIV to fishing communities of Lake Victoria in Uganda. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2256819. [PMID: 37699746 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2256819] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Fishing communities around Lake Victoria have among the highest burdens of HIV globally. Growing evidence suggests that high HIV prevalence is partially due to selective migration of people living with HIV to fishing communities. However, the reasons for this preferential migration are unclear. We recruited 60 men and women for qualitative in-depth interviews (30% living with HIV; 70% recent migrants of unknown HIV status) from seven Ugandan fishing communities. Interviews discussed mobility histories and the social context surrounding migration. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. A version of the 'Push-Pull' theory of migration helped structure a conceptual thematic framework for data analysis. Unfavourable conditions related primarily to stigma, social discrimination, humiliation, rejection or HIV labelling, and violence, induced individuals to leave their home communities. Factors which eventually resulted in migration to fishing communities included anticipating less HIV-related stigma and a safe, friendly environment that accommodates all people. Access to healthy food (fish) and the perceived availability of community-based HIV care services were also attractions. We found that stigma is the major social phenomenon shaping preferential migration to fishing communities in Uganda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nakamanya
- Social sciences, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI&LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Neema Nakyanjo
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP), Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Caitlin Kennedy
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - William Ddaaki
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP), Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Christine Ayanga
- Social sciences, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI&LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Richard John Ssemwanga
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP), Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Jade Jackson
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - M Kate Grabowski
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Janet Seeley
- Social sciences, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (MRC/UVRI&LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Self-reported and pill count measures of adherence to oral HIV PrEP among female sex workers living in South-Western Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277226. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Female sex workers (FSWs) in Uganda are at high risk of HIV infection. Scaling up oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) will reduce HIV incidence if high levels of adherence are maintained. This study evaluates PrEP adherence using clinic-based pill counts and self-reported measures, and factors associated with protective levels of adherence.
Methods
Participants were sex workers who had been taking PrEP for at least 5 months and were attending routine follow-up visits for PrEP care in fishing communities and along the Trans-African Highway. Participants who had a pill count showing at least 85% use since their last clinic visit and those who reported taking their PrEP every day in the last 5 months were categorised as having ‘protective adherence’. Spearman’s correlation and weighted kappa assessed the relationship between pill count and self-reported measures. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with protective adherence as measured by pill count.
Results
We recruited 524 FSWs, with a median age of 29 years (IQR 23–35). Participants were recruited from fishing communities and Trans-African Highway towns (n = 297, 56.7%, and n = 227, 43.0%). Nearly three quarters (n = 372, 71.0%) of women were estimated to have protective adherence based on pill count (i.e., a pill count of >85%) and 50.4% by self-report in last 3 months. There was a strong positive association between self-reported measures and pill count measures (rest = 0.6453, 95% CI = 0.5924–0.6927) and a moderate agreement between self-reported measures and pill count measures, κ = 0.544 (95%CI = 0.4869–0.6011, p < 0.001).
Factors associated with protective adherence included being aged 35 years or older (aOR = 2.40, 95% CI = 1.17–4.86), living in a fishing community (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI = 0.62–3.38), and having an STI in last 3 months (aOR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.07–2.49).
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that PrEP-experienced FSWs attending clinical follow-up visits reported high protective levels of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis, as measured by both pill count and self-reported measures, and a moderate agreement between pill count and self-reported measures.
Collapse
|
13
|
Kaggwa MM, Najjuka SM, Bongomin F, Mamun MA, Griffiths MD. Prevalence of depression in Uganda: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276552. [PMID: 36264962 PMCID: PMC9584512 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276552] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depression is one of the most studied mental health disorders, with varying prevalence rates reported across study populations in Uganda. A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to determine the pooled prevalence of depression and the prevalence of depression across different study populations in the country. Methods Papers for the review were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, African Journal OnLine, and Google Scholar databases. All included papers were observational studies regarding depression prevalence in Uganda, published before September 2021. The Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist for Prevalence Studies was used to evaluate the risk of bias and quality of the included papers, and depression pooled prevalence was determined using a random-effects meta-analysis. Results A total of 127 studies comprising 123,859 individuals were identified. Most studies were conducted among individuals living with HIV (n = 43; 33.9%), and the most frequently used instrument for assessing depression was the Depression sub-section of the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (n = 34). The pooled prevalence of depression was 30.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.7–34.1, I2 = 99.80, p<0.001). The prevalence of depression was higher during the COVID-19 pandemic than during the pre-pandemic period (48.1% vs. 29.3%, p = 0.021). Refugees had the highest prevalence of depression (67.6%; eight studies), followed by war victims (36.0%; 12 studies), individuals living with HIV (28.2%; 43 studies), postpartum or pregnant mothers (26.9%; seven studies), university students (26.9%; four studies), children and adolescents (23.6%; 10 studies), and caregivers of patients (18.5%; six studies). Limitation Significantly high levels of heterogeneity among the studies included. Conclusion Almost one in three individuals in Uganda has depression, with the refugee population being disproportionately affected. Targeted models for depression screening and management across various populations across the country are recommended. Trial registration Protocol registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022310122).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Mohan Kaggwa
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science & Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- African Centre for Suicide Prevention and Research, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, Forensic Psychiatry Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Sarah Maria Najjuka
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Mohammed A. Mamun
- CHINTA Research Bangladesh, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kawuki J, Kamara K, Sserwanja Q. Prevalence of risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus among women of reproductive age in Sierra Leone: a 2019 nationwide survey. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:60. [PMID: 35039011 PMCID: PMC8764866 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07037-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim For over 40 years of the HIV/AIDS global epidemic, no effective cure nor vaccine is yet available, making the current control strategies focused on curbing new infections through risk reduction. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV risk factors and their associated socio-demographics among women of reproductive age in Sierra Leone. Methods We used weighted data from the Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS) of 2019 for 12,005 women aged 15–49 years. Multistage sampling was used to select study participants. Exposure to HIV risk factors was considered if a woman reported at least one of the following; having multiple sexual partners, transactional sex, non-condom use for the unmarried, and having other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). We, then, conducted multivariable logistic regression to explore the associated socio-demographics. All the analyses were done using SPSS (version 25). Results Of the 12,005 women, 38.1% (4577/12005) (95% confidence interval (CI) 37.3–39.0) had at least one of the four risk factors. Women of 15 to 19 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.34, 95% CI 1.00–1.80) and 20 to 34 years (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI 1.05–1.49) had more odds of having HIV risk factors compared to those of 35 to 49 years. Urban residents (AOR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.17–1.89) and those from the Northwestern region (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.26–2.60) were also more likely to encounter HIV risk factors compared to their respective counterparts. Moreover, unmarried women (AOR = 111.17, 95% CI 87.55–141.18) and those working (AOR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.14–1.67) also had higher odds of having HIV risk factors, compared to their respective counterparts. Sex of household head and parity were also significant associates. Conclusions More than a third of women in Sierra Leone had encountered at least one HIV risk factor, and this was associated with age, place of residence, region, marital status, working status, household head and parity. There is a need for strengthening HIV/AIDS education programs, laws and policies targeting the young, working, unmarried and urban-resident women. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07037-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Kawuki
- Centre for Health Behaviours Research, Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kassim Kamara
- Directorate of Health Security and Emergencies, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Quraish Sserwanja
- Programmes Department, GOAL, Arkaweet Block 65 House No. 227, Khartoum, Sudan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nakamanya S, Kawuma R, Kibuuka D, Kusemererwa S, McCormack S, Ruzagira E, Seeley J. Assessing acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among participants in an HIV vaccine preparedness study in southwestern Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271104. [PMID: 35905052 PMCID: PMC9337655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271104] [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: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use is highly effective against HIV infection. However, the uptake of PrEP among individuals at high-risk of HIV acquisition in sub-Saharan Africa varies because of availability and acceptability. We assessed the acceptability of PrEP among participants in a prospective HIV vaccine preparedness study in Masaka, southwestern Uganda. METHODS From November 2018 to August 2019, 20 participants (10 female) were purposively selected for in-depth interviews (IDIs) at 3 and 9 months' post-enrolment in the vaccine preparedness study. Four focus group discussions (FGD) (two among men) were conducted with 29 individuals categorized as: younger (18-24 years) men, younger (18-24 years) women, older (≥30 years) men, and older (≥30 years) women. Apart from IDI specific questions on recent life history including work experience, relationship history and places lived, topics for IDIs and FGDs included knowledge of HIV, perceptions of HIV risk (including own risk), knowledge of and use of PrEP. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability was used to structure a thematic framework approach for data analysis. RESULTS Participants understood that PrEP was an oral pill taken daily by HIV negative individuals to prevent acquisition of HIV. Overall, interest in and acceptability of PrEP was high, more than half expressed positivity towards PrEP but were not ready to initiate taking it citing the burden of daily oral pill taking, related side effects, stigma and distrust of PrEP. Fourteen participants (from IDI and FGD) initiated PrEP, although some (one FGD and two IDI participants) stopped taking it due to side effects or perceived reduced risk. CONCLUSION We observed a keen interest in PrEP initiation among our study participants. However, a limited understanding of PrEP and associated concerns impeded uptake and sustained use. Hence, interventions are needed to address end-user challenges to increase uptake and support adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Nakamanya
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Rachel Kawuma
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Denis Kibuuka
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sylvia Kusemererwa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Eugene Ruzagira
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ssetaala A, Ssempiira J, Wambuzi M, Nanyonjo G, Okech B, Chinyenze K, Bagaya B, Price MA, Kiwanuka N, Degomme O. Improving access to maternal health services among rural hard-to-reach fishing communities in Uganda, the role of community health workers. WOMEN'S HEALTH 2022; 18:17455057221103993. [PMID: 35748585 PMCID: PMC9234847 DOI: 10.1177/17455057221103993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To explore whether community health worker household-based maternal health
visits improve antenatal care and skilled birth attendance among
hard-to-reach fishing villages on Lake Victoria, Uganda. Methods: This quasi-experimental 18-month prospective study involved 486 consenting
women aged 15–49 years, who were pregnant or had a pregnancy outcome in the
past 6 months, from 6 island fishing communities. The community health
worker household-based intervention (community health workers’ household
visits to provide counseling, blood pressure measurement, anemia, and HIV
testing) involved 243 women from three fishing communities. Random effects
logistic regression was used to determine the association between the
community health worker intervention and antenatal care and skilled birth
attendance among women who had at least 5 months of pregnancy or childbirth
at follow-up. Results: Almost all women accepted the community health worker intervention (90.9%
(221/243)). Hypertension was at 12.5% (27/216) among those who accepted
blood pressure measurements, a third (33.3% (9/27)) were pregnant. HIV
prevalence was 23.5% (52/221). Over a third (34.2% (69/202)) of women tested
had anemia (hemoglobin levels less than 11 g/dL). The community health
worker intervention was associated with attendance of first antenatal care
visit within 20 weeks of pregnancy (adjusted odd ratio = 2.1 (95% confidence
interval 0.6–7.6)), attendance of at least four antenatal care visits
(adjusted odd ratio = 0.9 (95% confidence interval 0.4–2.0)), and skilled
birth attendance (adjusted odd ratio = 0.5 (95% confidence interval
0.1–1.5)), though not statistically significant. Conclusion: Community health workers have a crucial role in improving early antenatal
care attendance, early community-based diagnosis of anemia, hypertensive
disorders, and HIV among women in these hard-to-reach fishing
communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ssetaala
- UVRI-IAVI HIV Vaccine Program, Entebbe, Uganda
- Ghent University International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julius Ssempiira
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Bernard Bagaya
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Matt A Price
- IAVI, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Noah Kiwanuka
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Olivier Degomme
- Ghent University International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Eto Y, Saubi N, Ferrer P, Joseph-Munné J. Expression of Chimeric HPV-HIV Protein L1P18 in Pichia pastoris; Purification and Characterization of the Virus-like Particles. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111967. [PMID: 34834382 PMCID: PMC8622379 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, three human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are already licensed and all of them are based on virus-like particles (VLPs) of HPV L1 capsid protein but not worldwide accessible. While about 38.0 million people were living with HIV in 2019, only 68% of HIV-infected individuals were accessing antiretroviral therapy as of the end of June 2020 and there is no HIV vaccine yet. Therefore, safe, effective, and affordable vaccines against those two viruses are immediately needed. Both HPV and HIV are sexually transmitted infections and one of the main access routes is the mucosal genital tract. Thus, the development of a combined vaccine that would protect against HPV and HIV infections is a logical effort in the fight against these two major global pathogens. In this study, a recombinant Pichia pastoris producing chimeric HPV-HIV L1P18 protein intracellularly was constructed. After cell disruption, the supernatant was collected, and the VLPs were purified by a combination of ammonium sulfate precipitation, size exclusion chromatography, ultracentrifugation, and ultrafiltration. At the end of purification process, the chimeric VLPs were recovered with 96% purity and 9.23% overall yield, and the morphology of VLPs were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. This work contributes towards the development of an alternative platform for production of a bivalent vaccine against HPV and HIV in P. pastoris.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Eto
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (Y.E.); (N.S.)
- Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain;
- Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- AIDS Research Unit, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic/IDIBAPS, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Narcís Saubi
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (Y.E.); (N.S.)
- Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- AIDS Research Unit, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic/IDIBAPS, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Ferrer
- Department of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain;
| | - Joan Joseph-Munné
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; (Y.E.); (N.S.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|