1
|
Shrestha A, Poudel L, Shrestha S, Jha N, Kuikel BS, Shakya P, Kunwar RS, Pandey LR, Kc MB, Wilson EC, Deuba K. Multilevel determinants of antiretroviral therapy initiation and retention in the test-and-treat era of Nepal: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:927. [PMID: 39138448 PMCID: PMC11323673 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11311-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition to the "test-and-treat" policy in Nepal in 2017, coupled with the rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 2020, necessitates an in-depth understanding of factors influencing ART initiation and retention. This study investigates these factors from the perspectives of healthcare providers, families/communities, and people living with HIV (PLHIV). METHODS Employing a qualitative design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 ART clients and 26 healthcare providers across different provinces of Nepal. A comprehensive interview guide facilitated the exploration of experiences and perceptions. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was applied to distill key insights. Guided by a socio-ecological model, interviews were analyzed to identify the barriers and facilitators to ART initiation and continuation at the individual, family/community, and health system levels. RESULTS Facilitators and barriers were identified at three levels. Individual-level facilitators included fear of death, perceived health benefits, knowledge about HIV/ART, confidentiality, and financial support. Barriers encompassed concerns about lifelong medication, side effects, denial of HIV status, fear of disclosure, and financial constraints. At the family/community level, support from family and community health workers facilitated ART adherence, while social stigma and discrimination posed barriers. The health system's role was dual; the provision of free treatment, a client tracking system and a robust drug supply chain were facilitators, whereas logistical challenges and service accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic were notable barriers. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the various factors that influence ART initiation and retention in Nepal during the test-and-treat era. Tailored interventions should focus on increasing awareness about HIV and ART, strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring availability of medications, and providing accessible treatment during service disruptions. Furthermore, these interventions should encourage supportive environments at the individual, community, and healthcare system levels. Taking this holistic approach is essential for effectively implementing ART and achieving long-term health outcomes in light of changing public health policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Archana Shrestha
- Department of Public Health and Community Programs, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
- Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Institute for Implementation Science and Health, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Lisasha Poudel
- Institute for Implementation Science and Health, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Soniya Shrestha
- Department of Public Health and Community Programs, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Niharika Jha
- Department of Public Health and Community Programs, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Bihari Sharan Kuikel
- Department of Public Health and Community Programs, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | | | | | - Lok Raj Pandey
- National Centre for AIDS & STD Control, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Man Bahadur Kc
- National Centre for AIDS & STD Control, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Erin C Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Keshab Deuba
- Public Health and Environment Research Centre (PERC), Lalitpur, Nepal.
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Meque I, Herrera N, Gill MM, Guilaze R, Nhangave A, Mussá J, Bhatt N, Bonou M, Greenberg L. Consistency of Multi-Month Antiretroviral Therapy Dispensing and Association with Viral Load Coverage among Pediatric Clients Living with HIV in Mozambique. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:141. [PMID: 39058183 PMCID: PMC11281662 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9070141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
With the increase in uptake of multi-month antiretroviral therapy dispensing (MMD) for children, little is known about consistency of MMD receipt over time and its association with virological outcomes. This analysis aims to assess the uptake of 3-month MMD among children, consistent receipt of MMD after uptake, and clinical outcomes following transition to MMD in 16 health facilities in Gaza and Inhambane Provinces. This is a secondary analysis involving children <15 years living with HIV with clinical visits during the period from September 2019 to August 2020. Of 4383 children, 82% ever received MMD (at least one pickup of a 3-month MMD supply) during the study period but only 40% received it consistently (defined as MMD at every visit during the study period). Consistent MMD was most common among older children and children without indications of clinical instability. Overall viral load (VL) coverage was 40% (733/1851). Consistent MMD was significantly associated with lower odds of having a VL (0.78, 95% CI: 0.64-0.95). In conclusion, while receipt of a multi-month supply was common particularly during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, only a minority of children received consistent MMD; however, there is a need to ensure children with fewer visits still receive timely VL monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivete Meque
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Maputo, Mozambique; (I.M.)
| | - Nicole Herrera
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| | - Michelle M. Gill
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| | - Rui Guilaze
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Maputo, Mozambique; (I.M.)
| | - Amancio Nhangave
- Núcleo de Pesquisa Provincial de Gaza, Provincial Health Directorate, Gaza, Mozambique
| | - Jaciara Mussá
- Núcleo de Investigação Operacional de Inhambane, Provincial Health Directorate, Inhambane, Mozambique
| | - Nilesh Bhatt
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| | - Mahoudo Bonou
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Maputo, Mozambique; (I.M.)
| | - Lauren Greenberg
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC 20005, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Damtie Y, Tadese F. Antiretroviral therapy adherence among patients enrolled after the initiation of the Universal Test and Treat strategy in Dessie town: a cross-sectional study. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 31:886-893. [PMID: 32702282 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420927205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Poor adherence was the major challenge in providing treatment, care, and support for people living with HIV (PLHIV). Evidence of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) after initiation of the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) strategy was limited in Ethiopia. So, this study aimed to determine the proportion of ART adherence after the initiation of UTT strategy and associated factors among adult PLHIV in Dessie town using two adherence measurements. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 293 PLHIV selected using a systematic sampling technique. The data were collected by face-to face-interview using a pretested questionnaire; chart review was also used to collect the data. The proportion of ART adherence measured by using the Morisky scale and seven-day recall was 49.3% (95% CI: [43.5%, 54.8%]) and 95.9% (95% CI: [93.2%, 98.2%]), respectively. Being urban in residence (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI: [1.80, 7.68]), the absence of depression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.72, 95% CI: [1.22, 11.35]), taking one tablet per day (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: [1.64, 6.49]), and the absence of concomitant illness (AOR = 0.23, 95% CI: [0.09, 0.59]) were factors associated with ART adherence. The proportion of ART adherence measured by the Morisky scale was very low; however, adherence measured by seven-day recall was higher and consistent with World Health Organization recommendations. Residence, depression, and the number of tablets taken per day had a positive association with good ART adherence whereas having concomitant illness had a negative association with good ART adherence. Efforts should be made to improve adherence and interventions should be given to overcome factors linked with poor adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yitayish Damtie
- Department of Reproductive and Family Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Fentaw Tadese
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Onoya D, Mokhele I, Sineke T, Mngoma B, Moolla A, Vujovic M, Bor J, Langa J, Fox MP. Health provider perspectives on the implementation of the same-day-ART initiation policy in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Health Res Policy Syst 2021; 19:2. [PMID: 33407574 PMCID: PMC7789550 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-020-00673-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In September 2016, South Africa (SA) began implementing the universal-test-and-treat (UTT) policy in hopes of attaining the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets by 2020. The SA National Department of Health provided a further directive to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the day of HIV diagnosis in September 2017. We conducted a qualitative study to determine the progress in implementing UTT and examine health providers' perspectives on the implementation of the same-day initiation (SDI) policy, six months after the policy change. Methods We conducted in-depth interviews with three professional nurses, and four HIV lay counsellors of five primary health clinics in the Gauteng province, between October and December 2017. In September 2018, we also conducted a focus group discussion with ten professional nurses/clinic managers from ten clinic facilities. The interviews and focus groups covered the adoption and implementation of UTT and SDI policies. Interviews were conducted in English, Sotho or Zulu and audio-recorded with participant consent. Audio-recordings were transcribed verbatim, translated to English and analysed thematically using NVivo 11. Results The data indicates inconsistencies across facilities and incongruities between counsellor and nursing provider perspectives regarding the SDI policy implementation. While nurses highlighted the clinical benefits of early ART initiation, they expressed concerns that immediate ART may be overwhelming for some patients, who may be unprepared and likely to disengage from care soon after the initial acceptance of ART. Accordingly, the SDI implementation was slow due to limited patient demand, provider ambivalence to the policy implementations, as well as challenges with infrastructure and human resources. The process for assessing patient readiness was poorly defined by health providers across facilities, inconsistent and counsellor dependent. Providers were also unclear on how to ensure that patients who defer treatment return for ongoing counselling. Conclusions Our results highlight important gaps in the drive to achieve the ART initiation target and demonstrate the need for further engagement with health care providers around the implementation of same-day ART initiation, particularly with regards to infrastructural/capacity needs and the management of patient readiness for lifelong ART on the day of HIV diagnosis. Additionally, there is a need for improved promotion of the SDI provision both in health care settings and in media communications to increase patient demand for early and lifelong ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorina Onoya
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Idah Mokhele
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tembeka Sineke
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Aneesa Moolla
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Jacob Bor
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Departments of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America.,Departments of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | - Matthew P Fox
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Departments of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America.,Departments of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mwangwa F, Getahun M, Itiakorit H, Jain V, Ayieko J, Owino L, Akatukwasa C, Maeri I, Koss CA, Chamie G, Clark TD, Kabami J, Atukunda M, Kwarisiima D, Sang N, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Petersen ML, Cohen CR, Charlebois ED, Havlir DV, Camlin CS. Provider and Patient Perspectives of Rapid ART Initiation and Streamlined HIV Care: Qualitative Insights From Eastern African Communities. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 20:23259582211053518. [PMID: 34841945 PMCID: PMC8641109 DOI: 10.1177/23259582211053518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Sustainable East Africa Research in Community Health (SEARCH), a universal test and treat (UTT) trial, implemented 'Streamlined Care'-a multicomponent strategy including rapid linkage to care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) start, 3-monthly refills, viral load counseling, and accessible, patient-centered care provision. To understand patient and provider experiences of Streamlined Care to inform future care innovations, we conducted in-depth interviews with patients (n = 18) and providers (n = 28) at baseline (2014) and follow-up (2015) (n = 17 patients; n = 21 providers). Audio recordings were transcribed, translated, and deductively and inductively coded. Streamlined Care helped to decongest clinic spaces and de-stigmatize human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care. Patients credited the individualized counselling, provider-assisted HIV status disclosure, and providers' knowledge of patient's drug schedules, availability, and phone call reminders for their care engagement. However, for some, denial (repeated testing to disprove HIV+ results), feeling healthy, limited understanding of the benefits of early ART, and anticipated side-effects, and mistrust of researchers hindered rapid ART initiation. Patients' short and long-term mobility proved challenging for both patients and providers. Providers viewed viral load counselling as a powerful tool to convince otherwise healthy and high-CD4 patients to initiate ART. Patient-centered HIV care models should build on the successes of Streamlined Care, while addressing persistent barriers.#NCT01864683-https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01864603.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vivek Jain
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Gabriel Chamie
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Norton Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Carol S. Camlin
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Renju J, Seeley J, Moshabela M, Wringe A. Understanding the health systems impacts of Universal Test and Treat in sub-Saharan Africa: The Shape UTT study. Glob Public Health 2020; 16:161-166. [PMID: 33326359 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1861317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Renju
- London school of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.,Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Janet Seeley
- London school of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK.,African Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Mosa Moshabela
- African Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Moges NA, Adesina OA, Okunlola MA, Berhane Y. Same-day antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation and associated factors among HIV positive people in Northwest Ethiopia: baseline characteristics of prospective cohort. Arch Public Health 2020; 78:87. [PMID: 32983450 PMCID: PMC7510057 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-020-00473-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite a well-established fact that same-day or rapid ART initiation after a positive HIV test result is vital for faster viral suppression and for prevention of further sexual transmissions of HIV, there is a paucity of evidence on the uptake of same-day ART initiation among newly HIV diagnosed people in Northwest, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 1st, 2018 and July 30, 2019. About 759 newly HIV diagnosed adults were recruited from 24 health facilities. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were entered using EPI-Data and exported to SPSS and STATA software for further analysis. Bivariate logistic regression was used to select candidate variables at p-value less than 0.25 for multivariate logistic regression. Then adjusted odds ratio with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) at p-value of less than 0.05 was used to declare the statistical associations between the dependent and independent variables. Result Magnitude of same-day ART initiation was 318 (41.90%) [(95% CI, 38.2–45.20%)]. Factors associated with same-day ART initiation were: Patients resided in West Gojjam Zone were 2.04 times more likely to initiate same-day ART compared to those in Bahir Dar city administration [AOR = 2.04 (1.04–3.97)], patients in the health centers were 3.06 times more likely to initiate same-day ART initiation compared to those in the hospitals [AOR = 3.06 (1.90–4.92)] and Patients who were diagnosed their HIV status at the same health facility where they linked for ART were 2.16 times more likely to initiate ART at the same-day of diagnosis [AOR = 2.16 (91.24–3.74)]. Moreover, patients with no opportunistic infection [AOR = 2.08 (1.04–4.19)] and pregnant women [AOR = 3.97 (1.78–8.87)] were more likely to initiate ART same-day of diagnosis. Conclusions Same-day ART initiation was low among HIV patients in Ethiopia. Patients attending their treatment at hospitals and those from big city (Bahir Dar) were less likely to initiate same-day ART. Clinical factors such as having opportunistic infections and non-pregnancy status affected the immediate initiation of treatment. HIV positive people who seek care in hospitals and those tested HIV positive from another health facilities in which they did not intend to continue their ART follow-up care need special attention.
Collapse
|
8
|
Watt MH, Knettel BA, Knippler ET, Kisigo G, Ngocho JS, Renju J, Rogathi J, Sao SS, Minja L, Osaki H, Mwamba RN, Mmbaga BT. The development of Maisha, a video-assisted counseling intervention to address HIV stigma at entry into antenatal care in Tanzania. EVALUATION AND PROGRAM PLANNING 2020; 83:101859. [PMID: 32795711 PMCID: PMC7686260 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2020.101859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
HIV stigma has a profound impact on clinical outcomes and undermines the quality of life of people living with HIV (PLWH). Among HIV-negative individuals, misinformation and prejudicial attitudes about HIV can fuel stigma and contribute to discrimination against PLWH. Antenatal care (ANC), with its focus on universal HIV testing, provides a unique entry point to address HIV stigma. This study describes the development of a counseling intervention to address HIV stigma among women and their partners attending a first ANC appointment in Tanzania. Formative work to inform the intervention consisted of qualitative interviews with 32 pregnant and postpartum women (both women living with HIV and HIV-negative women) and 20 healthcare workers. Data were analyzed iteratively, using a thematic analysis approach, to identify intervention targets. The resulting intervention, Maisha (Swahili for "Life"), includes three sessions informed by the HIV Stigma Framework and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: a video and brief counseling session prior to HIV testing and, for those who test seropositive for HIV, two additional sessions building on the video content. A pilot test of the intervention is in process. Addressing HIV stigma at the first ANC visit can help individuals living with HIV to overcome stigma-related barriers to the initiation and maintenance of HIV care, and can reduce stigmatizing attitudes among those who test negative for HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa H Watt
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | | | - Elizabeth T Knippler
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Gilling School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Godfrey Kisigo
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania.
| | - James S Ngocho
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania.
| | - Jenny Renju
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Jane Rogathi
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania.
| | - Saumya S Sao
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Linda Minja
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania.
| | - Haika Osaki
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania.
| | - Rimel N Mwamba
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Blandina T Mmbaga
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, Moshi, Tanzania; Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, Tanzania.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Onoya D, Sineke T, Hendrickson C, Mokhele I, Maskew M, Long LC, Fox M. Impact of the test and treat policy on delays in antiretroviral therapy initiation among adult HIV positive patients from six clinics in Johannesburg, South Africa: results from a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e030228. [PMID: 32213514 PMCID: PMC7170559 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess delays to antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation before and after the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) and the same-day initiation (SDI) of ART policy periods in Johannesburg, South Africa. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Patients were recruited from six primary health clinics in Johannesburg. PARTICIPANTS Overall, 1029 newly diagnosed HIV positive adults (≥18 years) were consecutively enrolled by referral from the testing counsellor between April and December 2015 (pre-UTT n=146), July and August 2017 (UTT, n=141) and October 2017 and August 2018 (SDI, n=742). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess predictors of 30 days ART initiation. Additionally, predictors of immediate ART initiation were evaluated using Poisson regression. RESULTS Overall, 30 days ART proportions were 71.9% overall, 36.9% pre-UTT (44.3% of those eligible), 65.9% under UTT and 79.9% under the SDI policy. The median days to ART initiation declined from 21 pre-UTT (IQR: 15-30) to 8 (IQR: 6-16) under UTT and 5 days (IQR: 0-8) under the SDI policy. However, only 150 (20.2%) of the SDI cohort-initiated ART immediately after HIV diagnosis. Living in a two-adult home (adjusted HR (aHR) 1.2 vs living alone, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.5) increased the likelihood of 30-day ART. Missing baseline cluster of differentiation four (CD4) data decreased the likelihood of 30 days ART by 40% (aHR 0.6 vs CD4 <350 cells/µL, 95% CI 0.5 to 0.7). More women took up immediate ART (adjusted relative risk (aRR) 1.3, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.9). Participants ≥40 years (aRR 0.6 vs 18-24 years, 95% CI 0.4 to 0.9) were less likely to start ART immediately after HIV diagnosis. However, immediate ART rates increased with longer policy implementation time (aRR 0.2 for <3 months vs >10 months, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.4). CONCLUSIONS The study results highlight a positive move towards earlier ART initiation during the UTT and SDI periods and emphasise a need to increase same-day ART implementation further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorina Onoya
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Tembeka Sineke
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cheryl Hendrickson
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Idah Mokhele
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mhairi Maskew
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lawrence C Long
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Fox
- Health Economics & Epidemiology Research Office, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Catania JA, Dolcini MM, Harper G, Fortenberry D, Singh RR, Jamil O, Young AW, Pollack L, Orellana ER. Oral HIV Self-Implemented Testing: Performance Fidelity Among African American MSM. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:395-403. [PMID: 31732830 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02711-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Oral-Self Implemented HIV Testing (Oral-SIT) offers a low-cost way to extend the reach of HIV testing systems. It is unclear, however, if high risk populations are able to perform the test with high fidelity. Using a simulation-based research design, we administered desensitized Oral-SIT kits to African American MSM (AAMSM; 17-24 years, N = 178). Participants were HIV negative or never tested, and had never self-administered an Oral-SIT kit. We assessed performance fidelity, and hypothesized antecedents. High levels of social stigma were associated with lower levels of training knowledge (Range = No Errors: 51.9%, 4 Errors: 0.6%) and performance fidelity (Range = No Errors: 39.9%, 3 Errors: 1.7%). Training knowledge and prior testing history were positively associated with performance fidelity. The present work extends research on HIV-related social stigma and suggests that social stigma inhibits knowledge acquisition and task performance. The Oral-SIT training materials were understood by individuals with a wide-range of educational backgrounds. Interventions are needed, however, to further improve Oral-SIT performance fidelity.
Collapse
|
11
|
Havlir D, Lockman S, Ayles H, Larmarange J, Chamie G, Gaolathe T, Iwuji C, Fidler S, Kamya M, Floyd S, Moore J, Hayes R, Petersen M, Dabis F. What do the Universal Test and Treat trials tell us about the path to HIV epidemic control? J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25455. [PMID: 32091179 PMCID: PMC7038879 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Achieving HIV epidemic control globally will require new strategies to accelerate reductions in HIV incidence and mortality. Universal test and treat (UTT) was evaluated in four randomized population-based trials (BCPP/Ya Tsie, HPTN 071/PopART, SEARCH, ANRS 12249/TasP) conducted in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) during expanded antiretroviral treatment (ART) eligibility by World Health Organization guidelines and the UNAIDS 90-90-90 campaign. DISCUSSION These three-year studies were conducted in Botswana, Zambia, Uganda, Kenya and South Africa in settings with baseline HIV prevalence from 4% to 30%. Key observations across studies were: (1) Universal testing (implemented via a variety of home and community-based testing approaches) achieved >90% coverage in all studies. (2) When coupled with robust linkage to HIV care, rapid ART start and patient-centred care, UTT achieved among the highest reported population levels of viral suppression in SSA. Significant gains in population-level viral suppression were made in regions with both low and high baseline population viral load; however, viral suppression gains were not uniform across all sub-populations and were lower among youth. (3) UTT resulted in marked reductions in community HIV incidence when universal testing and robust linkage were present. However, HIV elimination targets were not reached. In BCPP and HPTN 071, annualized HIV incidence was approximately 20% to 30% lower in the intervention (which included universal testing) compared to control arms (no universal testing). In SEARCH (where both arms had universal testing), incidence declined 32% over three years. (4) UTT reduced HIV associated mortality by 23% in the intervention versus control communities in SEARCH, a study in which mortality was comprehensively measured. CONCLUSIONS These trials provide strong evidence that UTT inclusive of universal testing increases population-level viral suppression and decreases HIV incidence and mortality faster than the status quo in SSA and should be adapted at a sub-country level as a public health strategy. However, more is needed, including integration of new prevention interventions into UTT, in order to reach UNAIDS HIV elimination targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Havlir
- Department of MedicineUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Shahin Lockman
- Brigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Harvard School T.H. Chan School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute PartnershipGaboroneBotswana
| | - Helen Ayles
- Clinical Research DepartmentLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
- ZambartLusakaZambia
| | - Joseph Larmarange
- Centre Population et DéveloppementInstitut de Recherche pour le DéveloppementUniversité Paris DescartesInsermParisFrance
- Africa Health Research InstituteSomkheleSouth Africa
| | - Gabriel Chamie
- Department of MedicineUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Tendani Gaolathe
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute PartnershipGaboroneBotswana
- University of BotswanaGaboroneBotswana
| | - Collins Iwuji
- Department of Global Health & InfectionBrighton and Sussex Medical SchoolBrightonUnited Kingdom
- Africa Health Research InstituteKwaZulu‐NatalSouth Africa
- Research Department of Infection and Population HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Imperial CollegeNational Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research CenterLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Infectious DiseaseImperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Moses Kamya
- Department of MedicineMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC)KampalaUganda
| | - Sian Floyd
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Janet Moore
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS and TBCenters for Disease Control and PreventionAtlantaGAUSA
| | - Richard Hayes
- Department of Infectious Disease EpidemiologyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Maya Petersen
- School of Public HealthUniversity of California BerkeleyBerkeleyCAUSA
| | - Francois Dabis
- ISPED & Inserm Bordeaux Population Health UMR 1219Univ BordeauxBordeauxFrance
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mendez‐Lopez A, McKee M, Stuckler D, Granich R, Gupta S, Noori T, Semenza JC. Population uptake and effectiveness of test-and-treat antiretroviral therapy guidelines for preventing the global spread of HIV: an ecological cross-national analysis. HIV Med 2019; 20:501-512. [PMID: 31140715 PMCID: PMC6772052 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although the benefits of adopting test-and-treat antiretroviral therapy (ART) guidelines that recommend initiation of ART regardless of CD4 cell counts have been demonstrated at the individual level, there is uncertainty about how this translates to the population level. Here, we explored whether adopting ART guidelines recommending earlier treatment initiation improves population ART access and viral suppression and reduces overall disease transmission. METHODS Data on ART initiation guidelines and treatment coverage, viral suppression, and HIV incidence from 37 European and Central Asian countries were collected from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the Global HIV Policy Watch and HIV 90-90-90 Watch databases. We used multivariate linear regression models to quantify the association of ART initiation guidelines with population ART access, viral suppression, and HIV incidence, adjusting for potential confounding factors. RESULTS Test-and-treat policies were associated with 15.2 percentage points (pp) [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.8-29.6 pp; P = 0.039] greater treatment coverage (proportion of HIV-positive people on ART) compared with countries with ART initiation at CD4 cell counts ≤ 350 cells/μL. The presence of test-and-treat policies was associated with 15.8 pp (95% CI 2.4-29.1 pp; P = 0.023) higher viral suppression rates (people on ART virally suppressed) compared with countries with treatment initiation at CD4 counts ≤ 350 cells/μL. ART initiation at CD4 counts ≤ 500 cells/μL did not significantly improve ART coverage compared to initiation at CD4 counts ≤ 350 cells/μL but achieved similar degrees of viral suppression as test-and-treat. CONCLUSIONS Test-and-treat was found to be associated with substantial improvements in population-level access to ART and viral suppression, further strengthening evidence that rapid initiation of treatment will help curb the spread of HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - M McKee
- Department of Public Health & PolicyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - D Stuckler
- Department of Public Health & PolicyLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
- Dondena Research CentreUniversity of BocconiMilanItaly
| | - R Granich
- Independent Public Health ConsultantSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - S Gupta
- Independent Public Health ConsultantDelhiIndia
| | - T Noori
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
| | - JC Semenza
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Capturing HIV Incidence Among MSM Through At-Home and Self-reported Facility-based Testing. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2018; 75:e142-e144. [PMID: 28277488 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
14
|
Burmen B, Mogunde JO, Kwaro DP. Ethically providing Routine HIV testing services to bereaved populations. Nurs Ethics 2017; 26:195-200. [PMID: 29281932 DOI: 10.1177/0969733017693442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The delivery of public health policies may be in conflict with individualism. OBJECTIVES: To propose measures to ethically provide routine HIV testing services to persons visiting a funeral home. RESEARCH DESIGN: A document analysis of study documents and presentations made to an institutional review board. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT: Institutional review board members (both lay and professionals) and Study investigators attending an `open session' where study investigators were invited to elaborate on some study procedures. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Identities of all parties were anonymized. FINDINGS: Opt-out approaches to HIV testing, grief counseling, relational ethics, and a modular consenting process were proposed to safeguard clients' autonomy. The golden-rule approach and protective empowering were suggested to protect clientele beneficence. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: It is possible to ethically provide universal HIV testing and counseling services among grieving populations in this setting; elsewhere, this should be contextualized.
Collapse
|
15
|
Preferences for Home-Based HIV Testing Among Heterosexuals at Increased Risk for HIV/AIDS: New Orleans, Louisiana, 2013. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75 Suppl 3:S352-S356. [PMID: 28604438 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Participants in the New Orleans arm of the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance of Heterosexuals at Increased Risk for HIV were asked about potential utilization of self-administered home-based tests for HIV. The majority (86%) would use a free home-based test if provided by mail and 99% would seek treatment based on a positive result. In addition, more than half of respondents would return test results in some format to the test provider, whereas most of the remaining participants preferred to discuss results only with their doctor. These findings point toward a potential method for advancing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy.
Collapse
|
16
|
Wringe A, Moshabela M, Nyamukapa C, Bukenya D, Ondenge K, Ddaaki W, Wamoyi J, Seeley J, Church K, Zaba B, Hosegood V, Bonnington O, Skovdal M, Renju J. HIV testing experiences and their implications for patient engagement with HIV care and treatment on the eve of 'test and treat': findings from a multicountry qualitative study. Sex Transm Infect 2017; 93:e052969. [PMID: 28736389 PMCID: PMC5739849 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-052969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In view of expanding 'test and treat' initiatives, we sought to elicit how the experience of HIV testing influenced subsequent engagement in HIV care among people diagnosed with HIV. METHODS As part of a multisite qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews in Uganda, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Malawi and Zimbabwe with 5-10 health workers and 28-59 people living with HIV, per country. Topic guides covered patient and provider experiences of HIV testing and treatment services. Themes were derived through deductive and inductive coding. RESULTS Various practices and techniques were employed by health workers to increase HIV testing uptake in line with national policies, some of which affected patients' subsequent engagement with HIV services. Provider-initiated testing was generally appreciated, but rarely considered voluntary, with instances of coercion and testing without consent, which could lead to disengagement from care.Conflicting rationalities for HIV testing between health workers and their clients caused tensions that undermined engagement in HIV care among people living with HIV. Although many health workers helped clients to accept their diagnosis and engage in care, some delivered static, morally charged messages regarding sexual behaviours and expectations of clinic use which discouraged future care seeking. Repeat testing was commonly reported, reflecting patients' doubts over the accuracy of prior results and beliefs that antiretroviral therapy may cure HIV. Repeat testing provided an opportunity to develop familiarity with clinical procedures, address concerns about HIV services and build trust with health workers. CONCLUSION The principles of consent and confidentiality that should underlie HIV testing and counselling practices may be modified or omitted by health workers to achieve perceived public health benefits and policy expectations. While such actions can increase HIV testing rates, they may also jeopardise efforts to connect people diagnosed with HIV to long-term care, and undermine the potential of test and treat interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Wringe
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Mosa Moshabela
- University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
- African Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | | | - Dominic Bukenya
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ken Ondenge
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | - Joyce Wamoyi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Janet Seeley
- African Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute Research Unit on AIDS, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Global Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kathryn Church
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Basia Zaba
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Victoria Hosegood
- African Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Social Statistics and Demography, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Oliver Bonnington
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Morten Skovdal
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jenny Renju
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Karonga, Malawi
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify the range and frequency of patient-reported barriers and facilitators to antiretroviral treatment (ART) adherence in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). DESIGN Studies from 2005 to 2016 were identified by searching 10 electronic databases and through additional hand and web-searching. METHODS Inclusion criteria were HIV-positive adults taking ART based in any SSA country, qualitative study or quantitative survey and included at least one patient-reported barrier or facilitator to ART adherence. Exclusion criteria were only including data from treatment-naive patients initiating ART, only single-dose treatment, participants residing outside of SSA and reviews. RESULTS After screening 11 283 records, 154 studies (161 papers) were included in this review. Forty-three barriers and 30 facilitators were reported across 24 SSA countries. The most frequently identified barriers across studies were forgetting (n = 76), lack of access to adequate food (n = 72), stigma and discrimination (n = 68), side effects (n = 67) and being outside the house or travelling (n = 60). The most frequently identified facilitators across studies were social support (n = 60), reminders (n = 55), feeling better or healthier after taking ART (n = 35), disclosing their HIV status (n = 26) and having a good relationship with a health provider (n = 22). CONCLUSION This review addresses the gap in knowledge by collating all the patient-reported barriers and facilitators to ART adherence in SSA. Current barriers measures need to be adapted or new tools developed to include the wide variety of factors identified. The factors that have the greatest impact need to be isolated so interventions are developed that reduce the barriers and enhance the facilitators.
Collapse
|
18
|
Estem KS, Catania J, Klausner JD. HIV Self-Testing: a Review of Current Implementation and Fidelity. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2016; 13:107-15. [PMID: 26879653 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-016-0307-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oral HIV self-testing is an innovative and potentially high-impact means to increase HIV-case identification globally. As a screening test, oral HIV self-testing offers the potential for increased adoption through greater convenience and privacy, and the potential to increase the proportion of the population who test regularly. Research on how best to translate the innovation of oral self-testing to high-risk populations is underway. Currently only one oral HIV self-test kit is FDA-approved (OraQuick In-Home HIV Test) and available for retail sale. In the present report we review recent studies on the dissemination, adoption, and implementation of oral HIV testing. Prior work has focused primarily on adoption, but recent studies have begun to identify methods for improving dissemination and problems associated with self-implementation. At present a major barrier to wider adoption is the relatively high retail cost of the oral HIV test kit. Significant but minor barriers are represented by overly complex instructional materials for some population segments, and dissemination programs of unknown efficacy. Theoretical and practical suggestions for conducting research on dissemination, adoption, and implementation of oral HIV testing are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristecia S Estem
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, 42-09 28th Street, WS 21-64, Queens, NY, 11101, USA
| | - Joseph Catania
- Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, Oregon State University College of Public Health and Human Sciences, 401 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, 10920 Wilshire Blvd, Suite #350, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Choi SKY, Holtgrave DR, Bacon J, Kennedy R, Lush J, McGee F, Tomlinson GA, Rourke SB. Economic Evaluation of Community-Based HIV Prevention Programs in Ontario: Evidence of Effectiveness in Reducing HIV Infections and Health Care Costs. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:1143-56. [PMID: 26152607 PMCID: PMC4867003 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1109-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Investments in community-based HIV prevention programs in Ontario over the past two and a half decades are assumed to have had an impact on the HIV epidemic, but they have never been systematically evaluated. To help close this knowledge gap, we conducted a macro-level evaluation of investment in Ontario HIV prevention programs from the payer perspective. Our results showed that, from 1987 to 2011, province-wide community-based programs helped to avert a total of 16,672 HIV infections, saving Ontario's health care system approximately $6.5 billion Canadian dollars (range 4.8-7.5B). We also showed that these community-based HIV programs were cost-saving: from 2005 to 2011, every dollar invested in these programs saved about $5. This study is an important first step in understanding the impact of investing in community-based HIV prevention programs in Ontario and recognizing the impact that these programs have had in reducing HIV infections and health care costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie K Y Choi
- The Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R Holtgrave
- Department of Health, Behaviour and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jean Bacon
- The Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rick Kennedy
- The Ontario AIDS Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joanne Lush
- AIDS Bureau, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frank McGee
- AIDS Bureau, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - George A Tomlinson
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Biostatistics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sean B Rourke
- The Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond St., Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Herron PD. Ethical Implications of Social Stigma Associated with the Promotion and Use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention. LGBT Health 2016; 3:103-8. [PMID: 26859191 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2014.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying sources of and eliminating social stigma associated with the promotion and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of sexually acquired HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) is both a moral imperative and necessary requirement to ensure that public health objectives of HIV prevention can be met. This article will examine and address ethical concerns and criticisms regarding the use of PrEP, barriers to its promotion, and use among MSM and examine the types of social stigma associated with PrEP. An ethical justification for both healthcare and LGBT communities to address and overcome social stigma regarding the use of PrEP among MSM is offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick D Herron
- Department of Family and Social Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine , Bronx, New York
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bowen EA, Murshid NS. Trauma-Informed Social Policy: A Conceptual Framework for Policy Analysis and Advocacy. Am J Public Health 2015; 106:223-9. [PMID: 26691122 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2015.302970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Trauma-informed care is a service provision model used across a range of practice settings. Drawing on an extensive body of research on trauma (broadly defined as experiences that produce enduring emotional pain and distress) and health outcomes, we have argued that the principles of trauma-informed care can be extended to social policy. Citing a variety of health-related policy examples, we have described how policy can better reflect 6 core principles of trauma-informed care: safety, trustworthiness and transparency, collaboration, empowerment, choice, and intersectionality. This framework conveys a politicized understanding of trauma, reflecting the reality that trauma and its effects are not equally distributed, and offers a pathway for public health professionals to disrupt trauma-driven health disparities through policy action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Bowen
- Elizabeth A. Bowen and Nadine Shaanta Murshid are with the School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| | - Nadine Shaanta Murshid
- Elizabeth A. Bowen and Nadine Shaanta Murshid are with the School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, State University of New York
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Catania JA, Dolcini MM, Harper GW, Dowhower DP, Dolcini-Catania LG, Towner SL, Timmons A, Motley DN, Tyler DH. Bridging barriers to clinic-based HIV testing with new technology: translating self-implemented testing for African American youth. Transl Behav Med 2015; 5:372-83. [PMID: 26622910 PMCID: PMC4656217 DOI: 10.1007/s13142-015-0331-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous barriers to clinic-based HIV testing exist (e.g., stigmatization) for African American youth. These barriers may be addressed by new technology, specifically HIV self-implemented testing (SIT). We conducted a series of formative phase 3 translation studies (49 face-to-face interviews, 9 focus groups, 1 advisory panel review) among low-income African American youth (15-19 years) and providers of adolescent services in two US cities to identify potential translation difficulties of the OraQuick SIT. Based on content analysis, we found that providers and African American youth viewed SITs positively compared to clinic-based testing. Data suggest that SITs may reduce social stigma and privacy concerns and increase convenience and normalization of HIV testing. Challenges with SIT implementation include difficulties accessing confirmatory testing, coping with adverse outcomes, and instructional materials that may be inappropriate for low socioeconomic status (SES) persons. Study results underscore the need for translation studies to identify specific comprehension and implementation problems African American youth may have with oral SITs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. A. Catania
- />College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR USA
- />School of Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, 401 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA
| | - M. M. Dolcini
- />College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR USA
| | - G. W. Harper
- />School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - D. P. Dowhower
- />College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR USA
| | | | - S. L. Towner
- />College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR USA
| | - A. Timmons
- />Department of Psychology, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - D. N. Motley
- />Department of Psychology, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - D. H. Tyler
- />DePaul Family and Community Services, Chicago, IL USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Aidala AA, Wilson MG, Shubert V, Gogolishvili D, Globerman J, Rueda S, Bozack AK, Caban M, Rourke SB. Housing Status, Medical Care, and Health Outcomes Among People Living With HIV/AIDS: A Systematic Review. Am J Public Health 2015; 106:e1-e23. [PMID: 26562123 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2015.302905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggests responses to HIV that combine individual-level interventions with those that address structural or contextual factors that influence risks and health outcomes of infection. Housing is such a factor. Housing occupies a strategic position as an intermediate structural factor, linking "upstream" economic, social, and cultural determinants to the more immediate physical and social environments in which everyday life is lived. The importance of housing status for HIV prevention and care has been recognized, but much of this attention has focused on homeless individuals as a special risk group. Analyses have less often addressed community housing availability and conditions as factors influencing population health or unstable, inadequate, or unaffordable housing as a situation or temporary state. A focus on individual-level characteristics associated with literal homelessness glosses over social, economic, and policy drivers operating largely outside any specific individual's control that affect housing and residential environments and the health resources or risk exposures such contexts provide. OBJECTIVES We examined the available empirical evidence on the association between housing status (broadly defined), medical care, and health outcomes among people with HIV and analyzed results to inform future research, program development, and policy implementation. SEARCH METHODS We searched 8 electronic health and social science databases from January 1, 1996, through March 31, 2014, using search terms related to housing, dwelling, and living arrangements and HIV and AIDS. We contacted experts for additional literature. SELECTION CRITERIA We selected articles if they were quantitative analyses published in English, French, or Spanish that included at least 1 measure of housing status as an independent variable and at least 1 health status, health care, treatment adherence, or risk behavior outcome among people with HIV in high-income countries. We defined housing status to include consideration of material or social dimensions of housing adequacy, stability, and security of tenure. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and quality appraisal. We used the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized controlled trials and a modified version of the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Appraisal Tool for nonintervention studies. In our quality appraisal, we focused on issues of quality for observational studies: appropriate methods for determining exposure and measuring outcomes and methods to control confounding. RESULTS Searches yielded 5528 references from which we included 152 studies, representing 139,757 HIV-positive participants. Most studies were conducted in the United States and Canada. Studies examined access and utilization of HIV medical care, adherence to antiretroviral medications, HIV clinical outcomes, other health outcomes, emergency department and inpatient utilization, and sex and drug risk behaviors. With rare exceptions, across studies in all domains, worse housing status was independently associated with worse outcomes, controlling for a range of individual patient and care system characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Lack of stable, secure, adequate housing is a significant barrier to consistent and appropriate HIV medical care, access and adherence to antiretroviral medications, sustained viral suppression, and risk of forward transmission. Studies that examined the history of homelessness or problematic housing years before outcome assessment were least likely to find negative outcomes, homelessness being a potentially modifiable contextual factor. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies indicate an independent effect of housing assistance on improved outcomes for formerly homeless or inadequately housed people with HIV. Housing challenges result from complex interactions between individual vulnerabilities and broader economic, political, and legal structural determinants of health. The broad structural processes sustaining social exclusion and inequality seem beyond the immediate reach of HIV interventions, but changing housing and residential environments is both possible and promising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela A Aidala
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Michael G Wilson
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Virginia Shubert
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - David Gogolishvili
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Jason Globerman
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Anne K Bozack
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Maria Caban
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| | - Sean B Rourke
- Angela A. Aidala is with the Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Michael G. Wilson is with the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada. Virginia Shubert is with Shubert Botein Policy Associates, New York, NY. At the time of this study, David Gogolishvili, Jason Globerman, Sergio Rueda, and Sean B. Rourke were with the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, ON, Canada. Anne K. Bozack is with the Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health. Maria Caban is with the Department of Research and Evaluation, BOOM!Health, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Blocking HIV-1 transmission in the female reproductive tract: from microbicide development to exploring local antiviral responses. Clin Transl Immunology 2015; 4:e43. [PMID: 26682051 PMCID: PMC4673443 DOI: 10.1038/cti.2015.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The majority of new HIV-1 infections are transmitted sexually by penetrating the mucosal barrier to infect target cells. The development of microbicides to restrain heterosexual HIV-1 transmission in the past two decades has proven to be a challenging endeavor. Therefore, better understanding of the tissue environment in the female reproductive tract may assist in the development of the next generation of microbicides to prevent HIV-1 transmission. In this review, we highlight the important factors involved in the heterosexual transmission of HIV-1, provide an update on microbicides' clinical trials, and discuss how different delivery platforms and local immunity may empower the development of next generation of microbicide to block HIV-1 transmission in the female reproductive tract.
Collapse
|
25
|
Newman CE, de Wit J, Persson A, Holt M, Slavin S, Kidd MR, Post JJ, Wright E, Mao L. Understanding Concerns About Treatment-as-Prevention Among People with HIV who are not Using Antiretroviral Therapy. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:821-31. [PMID: 25432878 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0959-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The use of antiretroviral therapy to prevent HIV transmission is now advocated in many settings, yet little research has documented the views of people with HIV. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Australia between 2012 and 2014 with 27 HIV-positive people not using treatment at the time of interview. Thematic analysis of views on treatment-as-prevention found that while many participants recognised potential prevention benefits, only a minority was in support of initiating treatment solely to achieve those benefits. A range of uncertain or critical views were expressed regarding who would benefit, risk reduction, and changing treatment norms. Participants resisted responsibility narratives that implied treatment should be used for the public good, in favour of making considered decisions about their preferred approach to managing HIV. Engaging communities in dialogue and debate regarding the risks and benefits of treatment will be critical if this new prevention strategy is to engender public trust.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C E Newman
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Level 2 John Goodsell Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Catania JA, Dolcini MM, Harper GW, Orellana ER, Tyler DH, Timmons A, Motley D, Dolcini-Catania LG, Towner SL. Self-implemented HIV testing: perspectives on improving dissemination among urban African American youths. Am J Public Health 2015; 105 Suppl 3:S449-52. [PMID: 25905841 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
We examined the potential for increasing the reach of HIV testing to African American youths through the dissemination of oral-HIV testing. From 2012 through 2013 we examined the perceptions of alternatives to pharmacy dissemination of SITs in African American youths (5 focus groups) and service providers (4 focus groups), and conducted an ethnographic study of pharmacies (n = 10). Participants perceived significant advantages to delivering SITs through community health and services for adolescents (e.g., increased confidentiality, reduced stigma) over pharmacy dissemination. Given proper attention to fit, SIT dissemination could be facilitated through distribution by health and social service sites, and by improving elements of pharmacy dissemination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Catania
- Joseph A. Catania, M. Margaret Dolcini, Luciano G. Dolcini-Catania, and Senna L. Towner are with the College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis. Gary W. Harper is with the School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. E. Roberto Orellana is with Portland State University, Portland, OR. Donald H. Tyler, April Timmons, and Darnell Motley are with the School of Public Health, De Paul University, Chicago, IL
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Arora KS, Streed CG. Ensuring the Ethical Implementation of the New World Health Organization Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Recommendations for Men Who Have Sex with Men. LGBT Health 2015; 2:11-3. [PMID: 26790012 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2014.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization's (WHO) new recommendation to encourage pre-exposure prophylaxis in men who have sex with men (MSM) is an important step towards eradicating the HIV epidemic. However, the ethical issues of stigma, privacy and confidentiality, and access must be addressed in order to ensure the optimal implementation of this important recommendation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Shah Arora
- 1 Department of Reproductive Biology and Bioethics, Case Western Reserve University , Cleveland, Ohio.,2 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MetroHealth Medical Center , Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Carl G Streed
- 3 Department of Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center , Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
HIV Attachment. In this cross section, HIV is shown at the top and a target cell is shown at the bottom in blues. HIV envelope protein (A) has bound to the receptor CD4 (B) and then to coreceptor CCR5 (C), causing a change in conformation that inserts fusion peptides into the cellular membrane Antiretroviral therapy changed the face of HIV/AIDS from that of soon and certain death to that of a chronic disease in the years following introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy in 1995-1996 (initially termed HAART, but now most often abbreviated to ART since not all combinations of regimens are equally active). Since then, many new agents have been developed and introduced in response to problems of resistance, toxicity, and tolerability, and great advances have been achieved in accessibility of HIV drugs in resource-poor global regions. Potential challenges that providers of HIV therapy will face in the coming decade include continuing problems with resistance, especially where access to drugs is inconsistent, determining how best to combine new and existing agents, defining the role of preventive treatment (pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP), and evaluating the potential of strategies for cure in some populations.
Collapse
|
29
|
Brawner BM. A multilevel understanding of HIV/AIDS disease burden among African American women. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2014; 43:633-643. [PMID: 25139057 DOI: 10.1111/1552-6909.12481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Disproportionate HIV/AIDS rates among African American women have been examined extensively, primarily from an individual-centered focus. Beyond individual behaviors, factors such as the hyperincarceration of African American men and geographically concentrated disadvantage may better explain inequitable disease burden. In this article I propose a conceptual model of individual, social, and structural factors that influence HIV transmission among African American women. The model can be used to develop comprehensive assessments and guide prevention programs in African American communities.
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
HIV prevalence is increasing worldwide because people on antiretroviral therapy are living longer, although new infections decreased from 3.3 million in 2002, to 2.3 million in 2012. Global AIDS-related deaths peaked at 2.3 million in 2005, and decreased to 1.6 million by 2012. An estimated 9.7 million people in low-income and middle-income countries had started antiretroviral therapy by 2012. New insights into the mechanisms of latent infection and the importance of reservoirs of infection might eventually lead to a cure. The role of immune activation in the pathogenesis of non-AIDS clinical events (major causes of morbidity and mortality in people on antiretroviral therapy) is receiving increased recognition. Breakthroughs in the prevention of HIV important to public health include male medical circumcision, antiretrovirals to prevent mother-to-child transmission, antiretroviral therapy in people with HIV to prevent transmission, and antiretrovirals for pre-exposure prophylaxis. Research into other prevention interventions, notably vaccines and vaginal microbicides, is in progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Maartens
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Connie Celum
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sharon R Lewin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Infectious Diseases Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Biomedical Research, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Knight R, Small W, Pakula B, Thomson K, Shoveller J. A scoping study to identify opportunities to advance the ethical implementation and scale-up of HIV treatment as prevention: priorities for empirical research. BMC Med Ethics 2014; 15:54. [PMID: 24994501 PMCID: PMC4086269 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6939-15-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the evidence showing the promise of HIV treatment as prevention (TasP) in reducing HIV incidence, a variety of ethical questions surrounding the implementation and "scaling up" of TasP have been articulated by a variety of stakeholders including scientists, community activists and government officials. Given the high profile and potential promise of TasP in combatting the global HIV epidemic, an explicit and transparent research priority-setting process is critical to inform ongoing ethical discussions pertaining to TasP. METHODS We drew on the Arksey and O'Malley framework for conducting scoping review studies as well as systematic approaches to identifying empirical and theoretical gaps within ethical discussions pertaining to population-level intervention implementation and scale up. We searched the health science database PubMed to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles on ethical and implementation issues pertaining to TasP. We included English language articles that were published after 2009 (i.e., after the emergence of causal evidence within this field) by using search terms related to TasP. Given the tendency for much of the criticism and support of TasP to occur outside the peer-reviewed literature, we also included grey literature in order to provide a more exhaustive representation of how the ethical discussions pertaining to TasP have and are currently taking place. To identify the grey literature, we systematically searched a set of search engines, databases, and related webpages for keywords pertaining to TasP. RESULTS Three dominant themes emerged in our analysis with respect to the ethical questions pertaining to TasP implementation and scale-up: (a) balancing individual- and population-level interests; (b) power relations within clinical practice and competing resource demands within health care systems; (c) effectiveness considerations and socio-structural contexts of HIV treatment experiences within broader implementation contexts. CONCLUSION Ongoing research and normative deliberation is required in order to successfully and ethically scale-up TasP within the continuum of HIV care models. Based on the results of this scoping review, we identify several ethical and implementation dimensions that hold promise for informing the process of scaling up TasP and that could benefit from new research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rod Knight
- Interdisciplinary Studies Graduate Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kulkarni SP, Shah KR, Sarma KV, Mahajan AP. Clinical uncertainties, health service challenges, and ethical complexities of HIV "test-and-treat": a systematic review. Am J Public Health 2013; 103:e14-23. [PMID: 23597344 PMCID: PMC3670656 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2013.301273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite the HIV "test-and-treat" strategy's promise, questions about its clinical rationale, operational feasibility, and ethical appropriateness have led to vigorous debate in the global HIV community. We performed a systematic review of the literature published between January 2009 and May 2012 using PubMed, SCOPUS, Global Health, Web of Science, BIOSIS, Cochrane CENTRAL, EBSCO Africa-Wide Information, and EBSCO CINAHL Plus databases to summarize clinical uncertainties, health service challenges, and ethical complexities that may affect the test-and-treat strategy's success. A thoughtful approach to research and implementation to address clinical and health service questions and meaningful community engagement regarding ethical complexities may bring us closer to safe, feasible, and effective test-and-treat implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonali P Kulkarni
- Division of HIV and STD Programs, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA 90005, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|