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Che Pa MF, Makmor-Bakry M, Islahudin F. Digital Health in Enhancing Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:507-516. [PMID: 37956244 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential in determining successful treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The adoption of digital health is suggested to improve ART adherence among people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study aimed to systematically determine the effect of digital health in enhancing ART adherence among PLHIV from published studies. The systematic search was conducted on Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), PubMed, Ovid, EBSCOHost, and Google Scholar databases up to June 2022. Studies utilized any digital health as an intervention for ART adherence enhancement and ART adherence status as study's outcome was included. Digital health refers to the use of information and communication technologies to improve health. Quality assessment and data analysis were carried out using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.4. A random-effects model computed the pooled odds ratio between intervention and control groups. The search produced a total of 1864 articles. Eleven articles were eligible for analysis. Digital health was used as follows: six studies used short message service or text message alone, three studies used mobile applications, and two studies used combination method. Four studies showed statistically significant impacts of digital health on ART adherence, while seven studies reported insignificant results. Results showed studies conducted using combination approach of digital health produced more promising outcome in ART adherence compared to single approach. New innovative in combination ways is required to address potential benefits of digital health in promoting ART adherence among PLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Farizh Che Pa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy, Hospital Tuanku Ja'afar, Seremban, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Makmor-Bakry
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Farida Islahudin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Sun L, Qu M, Chen B, Li C, Fan H, Zhao Y. Effectiveness of mHealth on Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Patients Living With HIV: Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e42799. [PMID: 36689267 PMCID: PMC9903184 DOI: 10.2196/42799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization recommends that all adults with HIV adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Good adherence to ART is beneficial to patients and the public. Furthermore, mHealth has shown promise in improving HIV medication adherence globally. OBJECTIVE The aim of this meta-analysis is to analyze the effectiveness of mHealth on adherence to antiretroviral therapy in patients living with HIV. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the association between mHealth and adherence to ART published until December 2021 were searched in electronic databases. Odds ratios (ORs), weighted mean differences, and 95% CIs were calculated. This meta-analysis was performed using the Mantel-Haenszel method or the inverse variance test. We evaluated heterogeneity with the I2 statistic. If I2 was ≤50%, heterogeneity was absent, and a fixed effect model was used. If I2 was >50%, heterogeneity was present, and a random effects model was used. RESULTS A total of 2163 participants in 8 studies were included in this meta-analysis. All included studies were RCTs. The random effects model was used for a meta-analysis of the effects of various intervention measures compared to routine nursing; the outcome was not statistically significant (OR 1.54, 95% CI 0.99-2.38; P=.05). In the subgroups, only short messaging service (SMS)-based interventions significantly increased adherence to ART (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.07-2.89; P=.03). Further analysis showed that only interactive or bidirectional SMS could significantly increase ART adherence (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.22-2.34; P=.001). After combining the difference in CD4 cell count before and after the interventions, we concluded that there was no statistical heterogeneity among the studies (I2=0%; tau2=0.37; P=.95). CONCLUSIONS Interactive or bidirectional SMS can enhance intervention effects. However, whether mHealth can improve adherence to ART in patients with HIV needs further study. Owing to a lack of the required significant staff time, training, and ongoing supervision, there is still much more to do to apply mHealth to the clinical use of ART for patients living with HIV. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42022358774; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=358774.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Sun
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengbing Qu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bing Chen
- Sanmenxia Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Sanmenxia, China
| | - Chuancang Li
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haohao Fan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Jiao K, Wang C, Liao M, Ma J, Kang D, Tang W, Tucker JD, Ma W. A differentiated digital intervention to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence among men who have sex with men living with HIV in China: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Med 2022; 20:341. [PMID: 36210434 PMCID: PMC9549628 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02538-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is still suboptimal among some key populations, highlighting the need for innovative tailored strategies. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to evaluate the effect of a differentiated digital intervention on ART adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV in China. METHODS The two-armed parallel RCT was conducted at one HIV clinic in Jinan of China from October 19, 2020, to June 31, 2021. Men were referred by health providers to join the study and then choose one of three digital strategies-text message, only instant message, or instant message plus social media. They were assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention arm or control arm using block randomization, and inside each arm, there were three groups depending on the type of delivering the message. The groups were divided according to participants' preferred digital strategies. The intervention arm received ART medication messages, medication reminders, peer education, and involved in online discussion. The control arm received messages on health behavior and nutrition. The primary outcome was self-reported optimal ART adherence, defined as not missing any doses and not having any delayed doses within a one-month period. Secondary outcomes included CD4 T cell counts, viral suppression, HIV treatment adherence self-efficacy, and quality of life. Intention-to-treat analysis with generalized linear mixed models was used to evaluate the intervention's effect. RESULTS A total of 576 participants were enrolled, including 288 participants assigned in the intervention arm and 288 assigned in the control arm. Most were ≤ 40 years old (79.9%) and initiated ART ≤ 3 years (60.4%). After intervention, the proportion of participants achieving optimal ART adherence in the intervention arm was higher than in the control arm (82.9% vs 71.1%). The differentiated digital intervention significantly improved ART adherence (RR = 1.74, 95%CI 1.21-2.50). Subgroup analysis showed one-to-one instant message-based intervention significantly improved ART adherence (RR = 2.40, 95% CI 1.39-4.17). CONCLUSIONS The differentiated digital intervention improved ART adherence among MSM living with HIV in China, which could be integrated into people living with HIV (PLWH) management and further promoted in areas where PLWH can access text messaging and instant messaging services. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2000041282. Retrospectively registered on 23 December 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kedi Jiao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunmei Wang
- Shandong Public Health Clinical Center, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Meizhen Liao
- Institution for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dianmin Kang
- Institution for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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Li C, Xiong Y, Muessig KE, Tang W, Huang H, Mu T, Tong X, Yu J, Yang Z, Sherer R, Hazra A, Lio J, Matthews DD, Fisher EB, Li L, Tucker JD. Community-engaged mHealth intervention to increase uptake of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in China: study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055899. [PMID: 35537794 PMCID: PMC9092176 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The large number of key populations in China who would benefit from HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the context of limited health system capacity and public awareness will pose challenges for timely PrEP scale-up, suggesting an urgent need for innovative and accessible interventions. This study aims to develop and pilot test a theory-informed, tailored mobile phone intervention that was codeveloped by young gay men, HIV clinicians and public health researchers to increase engagement in PrEP education and initiation among Chinese gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), who bear a disproportionate burden of HIV infections and remain underserved in the healthcare system. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This two-phase study includes a formative assessment using in-depth interviews (N=30) and a 12-week experimental pilot study using a two-arm randomised controlled trial design (N=70). The primary intervention is delivered through a WeChat-based mini-app (a program built into a Chinese multipurpose social media application) developed by young GBMSM from a 2019 crowdsourcing hackathon. Using mixed methods, we will further investigate the specific needs and concerns among GBMSM in terms of using PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy, how their concerns and PrEP use behaviours may change with exposure to the mini-app intervention during the study period and how we can further refine this intervention tool to better meet GBMSM's needs for broader implementation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study and its protocols have been reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Boards of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA (19-3481), the Guangdong Provincial Dermatology Hospital, China (2020031) and the Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, China (202022155). Study staff will work with local GBMSM community-based organisations to disseminate the study results to participants and the community via social media, workshops and journal publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The study was prospectively registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04426656) on 11 June 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Yuan Xiong
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haojie Huang
- Wuhan Tongxing LGBTQ Center, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tong Mu
- Qingdao Eighth People's Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaokai Tong
- Xi'an Polytechnic University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | | | - Zeyu Yang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Renslow Sherer
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Aniruddha Hazra
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jonathan Lio
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Derrick D Matthews
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Edwin B Fisher
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Linghua Li
- Infectious Diseases Research Department, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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WIDJAJA G, SIJABAT HH. Study of e-Health nutritional interventions on disease patients based on meta-analysis. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.68921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ibeneme SC, Ndukwu SC, Myezwa H, Irem FO, Ezenwankwo FE, Ajidahun AT, Ezuma AD, Nnamani A, Onodugo O, Fortwengel G, Uwakwe VC. Effectiveness of mobile text reminder in improving adherence to medication, physical exercise, and quality of life in patients living with HIV: a systematic review. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:859. [PMID: 34425789 PMCID: PMC8381579 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06563-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile text reminder (SMS) system is considered a viable strategy for targeting/facilitating healthy behavioural change including adherence to prescribed physical exercises (PE) and medication (antiretroviral therapy-ART) which should improve the quality of life (Qol) in people living with HIV/AIDS(PLWHA). Thus, the literature was appraised for evidence of SMS effectiveness in improving ART and PE adherence behaviours and QoL in PLWHA. Methods Eight databases–AMED, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, EMCARE, Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and PubMed-were searched up to December 2020, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol.This review included only randomised control trials (RCTs) investigating the effectiveness of SMS in improving QoL or PE or ART adherence behaviour or a combination of these variables in PLWHA >18 years. Two independent reviewers determined the eligibility of the studies. Data were extracted and the quality of the study was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) tool. The primary outcomes were ART and PE adherence behaviours while the secondary outcome was QoL. Result A pooled estimate of effect was not calculated due to the heterogeneity of methods and outcome measures. Therefore, a narrative synthesis of ten studies that met the inclusion criteria (n = 1621 participants at study completion) comprising males/females, aged ≥ 18 years, was done. There was a significant improvement in ART adherence behaviour except in three underpowered studies. Only the SMS interventions that were developed using the Starks 3-steps Adherence model was associated with positive outcome. The only study that evaluated QoL was underpowered and reported no significant change while there were no RCTs on PE. Conclusion Effects of SMS intervention trends towards a significant improvement in ART adherence behaviour in PLWHA. It is plausible that SMS reminders developed using the broader framework of the interpersonal health behaviour theory(ies) may have positive outcome. Nevertheless, the observed heterogeneity in the methods/outcome measures warrants a cautious interpretation of the findings. There is a lack/paucity of RCTs and therefore no evidence in support of the effectiveness of SMS intervention in improving PE adherence and QoL. Registration number NPLASY202060016. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-021-06563-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Chidi Ibeneme
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria. .,Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa. .,University of Nigeria Centre for Clinical Trials (UNNCET), Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria.
| | - Sandra C Ndukwu
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Hellen Myezwa
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Franklin Onyedinma Irem
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Fortune Elochukwu Ezenwankwo
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, University of Cape Town/Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Adedayo Tunde Ajidahun
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Studies, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Amarachi D Ezuma
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Amaka Nnamani
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Obinna Onodugo
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Gerhard Fortwengel
- Fakultat III, Hochschule Hannover - University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Hannover, Germany
| | - Victor C Uwakwe
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
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Zhang Y, Li X, Qiao S, Zhou Y, Shen Z. Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)-related Knowledge Seeking among People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in China: Role of Information & Communication Technology (ICT). LIBRI 2020. [DOI: 10.1515/libri-2019-0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThis paper investigated the use of information communication technology (ICT) to seek antiretroviral therapy (ART)-related knowledge among people living with HIV (PLHIV) taking antiretroviral treatment in Guangxi, China. A total 1902 participants who undertook ART and had used ICT were recruited from 12 sites with the highest cumulative HIV incidence. A questionnaire survey was used to collect data on the participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, clinical outcomes, infections in the family and comorbidity, access to healthcare resources, ICT using behavior in HIV management, and ART-related knowledge. The results showed that 15% of the participants had searched HIV-related information online, fewer participants had contacted healthcare providers via computer (1.6%) or text messaging (11.9%), and only 7.7% of the participants had contacted other PLHIV using ICT. Education had a positive impact on the knowledge level of all three categories of ART-related knowledge. Participants with better medication and mechanisms knowledge were more likely to search HIV-related information online and less likely to contact healthcare providers using text messages. Findings of this study suggested that ICT was used as an effective approach to acquire some type of ART-related knowledge. ICT was underutilized in health communication among the PLHIV in this study due to low education level and insufficient eHealth literacy. Future intervention programs should address the customization of the communication tools and focus on improving the education level and eHealth literacy of the PLHIV to better promote ICT as an efficient platform for ART-related knowledge seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhang
- Business School, Department of Information Resources Management, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA
| | - Yuejiao Zhou
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Zhiyong Shen
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
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Bien-Gund CH, Zhao P, Cao B, Tang W, Ong JJ, Baral SD, Bauermeister JA, Yang LG, Luo Z, Tucker JD. Providing competent, comprehensive and inclusive sexual health services for men who have sex with men in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Sex Health 2020; 16:320-331. [PMID: 31213225 DOI: 10.1071/sh18191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although men who have sex with men (MSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexually transmissible infections, sexual health services for MSM in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) remain under-resourced and are poorly understood. A scoping review of literature on MSM sexual health in LMIC was conducted in order to identify key clinical services and gaps in knowledge. Three databases were searched, in addition to hand-reviewing key journals and bulletins, to identify literature with a focus on MSM sexual health. Key services related to providing care to MSM in LMIC that emerged from our review are described. These services include creation of safe and confidential clinic environments, HIV testing services, behavioural interventions, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and STI services. Compared with high-income settings, major differences in LMIC include lack of diagnostic technology, unfavourable legal environments and lack of funding for MSM health. Innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, such as harnessing mobile technology, self-testing and crowdsourcing interventions, can improve health services among MSM in LMIC. There are gaps in the evidence about how best to provide sexual health services for MSM in LMIC settings. Implementation research and scale-up of existing biomedical and behavioural interventions, such as HIV/STI testing services, PrEP and early antiretroviral initiation are urgently needed in LMIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cedric H Bien-Gund
- University of North Carolina Project-China, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China; and Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Peipei Zhao
- Shenzhen Nanshan Center for Chronic Disease Control, No. 8 Longyuan Road, Shenzhen 510855, China
| | - Bolin Cao
- School of Media and Communication, Shenzhen University, 3688 Nanhai Avenue, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Project-China, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China; and Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China; and School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 321 S. Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - José A Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, 418 Curie Boulevard, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Li-Gang Yang
- Guangdong Provincial STD Control Center, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China
| | - Zhenzhou Luo
- Shenzhen Nanshan Center for Chronic Disease Control, No. 8 Longyuan Road, Shenzhen 510855, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina Project-China, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China; and Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health, No. 2 Lujing Road, Guangzhou 510095, China; and Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK; and Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; and Corresponding author.
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Palmer MJ, Henschke N, Villanueva G, Maayan N, Bergman H, Glenton C, Lewin S, Fønhus MS, Tamrat T, Mehl GL, Free C. Targeted client communication via mobile devices for improving sexual and reproductive health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 8:CD013680. [PMID: 32779730 PMCID: PMC8409381 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) worldwide is substantial, disproportionately affecting those living in low- and middle-income countries. Targeted client communication (TCC) delivered via mobile devices (MD) (TCCMD) may improve the health behaviours and service use important for sexual and reproductive health. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of TCC via MD on adolescents' knowledge, and on adolescents' and adults' sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. SEARCH METHODS In July/August 2017, we searched five databases including The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and Embase. We also searched two trial registries. A search update was carried out in July 2019 and potentially relevant studies are awaiting classification. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials of TCC via MD to improve sexual and reproductive health behaviour, health service use, and health and well-being. Eligible comparators were standard care or no intervention, non-digital TCC, and digital non-targeted communication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane, although data extraction and risk of bias assessments were carried out by one person only and cross-checked by a second. We have presented results separately for adult and adolescent populations, and for each comparison. MAIN RESULTS We included 40 trials (27 among adult populations and 13 among adolescent populations) with a total of 26,854 participants. All but one of the trials among adolescent populations were conducted in high-income countries. Trials among adult populations were conducted in a range of high- to low-income countries. Among adolescents, nine interventions were delivered solely through text messages; four interventions tested text messages in combination with another communication channel, such as emails, multimedia messaging, or voice calls; and one intervention used voice calls alone. Among adults, 20 interventions were delivered through text messages; two through a combination of text messages and voice calls; and the rest were delivered through other channels such as voice calls, multimedia messaging, interactive voice response, and instant messaging services. Adolescent populations TCCMD versus standard care TCCMD may increase sexual health knowledge (risk ratio (RR) 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23 to 1.71; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.35; low-certainty evidence). The effects on condom use, antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, and health service use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. The effects on abortion and STI rates are unknown due to lack of studies. TCCMD versus non-digital TCC (e.g. pamphlets) The effects of TCCMD on behaviour (contraception use, condom use, ART adherence), service use, health and wellbeing (abortion and STI rates) are unknown due to lack of studies for this comparison. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication The effects on sexual health knowledge, condom and contraceptive use are uncertain due to very low-certainty evidence. Interventions may increase health service use (attendance for STI/HIV testing, RR 1.61, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.40; low-certainty evidence). The intervention may be beneficial for reducing STI rates (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.33; low-certainty evidence), but the confidence interval encompasses both benefit and harm. The effects on abortion rates and on ART adherence are unknown due to lack of studies. We are uncertain whether TCCMD results in unintended consequences due to lack of evidence. Adult populations TCCMD versus standard care For health behaviours, TCCMD may modestly increase contraception use at 12 months (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.48) and may reduce repeat abortion (RR 0.68 95% CI 0.28 to 1.66), though the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm (low-certainty evidence). The effect on condom use is uncertain. No study measured the impact of this intervention on STI rates. TCCMD may modestly increase ART adherence (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.32, low-certainty evidence, and standardised mean difference 0.44, 95% CI -0.14 to 1.02, low-certainty evidence). TCCMD may modestly increase health service utilisation (RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.31; low-certainty evidence), but there was substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 85%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (i.e. attendance for STI testing; HIV treatment; voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC); VMMC post-operative visit; post-abortion care). For health and well-being outcomes, there may be little or no effect on CD4 count (mean difference 13.99, 95% CI -8.65 to 36.63; low-certainty evidence) and a slight reduction in virological failure (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.01; low-certainty evidence). TCCMD versus non-digital TCC No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may modestly increase in service attendance overall (RR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.92-1.35, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm. TCCMD versus digital non-targeted communication No studies reported STI rates, condom use, ART adherence, abortion rates, or contraceptive use as outcomes for this comparison. TCCMD may increase service utilisation overall (RR: 1.71, 95% CI 0.67-4.38, low certainty evidence), however the confidence interval encompasses benefit and harm and there was considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 72%), with mixed results according to type of service utilisation (STI/HIV testing, and VMMC). Few studies reported on unintended consequences. One study reported that a participant withdrew from the intervention as they felt it compromised their undisclosed HIV status. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS TCCMD may improve some outcomes but the evidence is of low certainty. The effect on most outcomes is uncertain/unknown due to very low certainty evidence or lack of evidence. High quality, adequately powered trials and cost effectiveness analyses are required to reliably ascertain the effects and relative benefits of TCC delivered by mobile devices. Given the sensitivity and stigma associated with sexual and reproductive health future studies should measure unintended consequences, such as partner violence or breaches of confidentiality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Palmer
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simon Lewin
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tigest Tamrat
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Garrett L Mehl
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Free
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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10
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Zhai P, Hayat K, Ji W, Li Q, Shi L, Atif N, Xu S, Li P, Du Q, Fang Y. Efficacy of Text Messaging and Personal Consultation by Pharmacy Students Among Adults With Hypertension: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e16019. [PMID: 32432556 PMCID: PMC7270845 DOI: 10.2196/16019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for ischemic heart diseases, and high rates of hypertension prevalence have either remained the same or increased in developing countries in recent years. Unfortunately, about 20% to 50% of patients with chronic diseases have been nonadherent to their drug therapy. SMS text messaging and pharmacy student-led consultations have the potential to help patients manage their blood pressure (BP). OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of SMS text messaging and consultation to manage the BP of Chinese patients with hypertension. METHODS We conducted a two-arm cluster randomized controlled trial among patients with hypertension in Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province, China, and recruited 384 patients from 8 community health care centers. Patients were randomized into an intervention group to receive SMS text messages and consultations or into a control group to receive usual care for 3 months. We sent SMS text messages at 3-day intervals and collected data at baseline (including demographics, clinical outcomes, medication complexity, side effects, patient behavior, knowledge about hypertension, BP, and medication adherence) and the 3-month follow-up (including BP, medication adherence, and knowledge about hypertension). RESULTS We assessed 445 patients with hypertension and excluded 61 patients who were not eligible or who had not filled out their questionnaires. The mean age of the patients was 68.5 (SD 7.9) years in the intervention group and 69.4 (SD 9.7) years in the control group, and the sample was primarily female (265/384, 69.0%). Patients in the intervention group showed significant improvements in systolic BP (SBP; mean 134.5 mm Hg, SD 15.5 mm Hg vs mean 140.7 mm Hg, SD 15.2 mm Hg; P=.001), medication adherence (mean 7.4, SD 1.2 vs mean 7.0, SD 1.3; P=.04), and knowledge about hypertension (mean 6.3, SD 0.9 vs mean 5.9, SD 1.2; P=.004) compared with those in the control group. In measures of diastolic BP (DBP), the two arms showed nonsignificant improvements (mean 78.2 mm Hg, SD 9.0 mm Hg vs mean 77.2 mm Hg, SD 10.3 mm Hg; P=.06). In total, 176 patients had controlled BP at the 3-month follow-up (98 patients in the intervention group vs 78 patients in the control group), but it was nonsignificant (P=.08). CONCLUSIONS The use of SMS text messaging and consultation to manage SBP and improve medication adherence is effective, feasible, and acceptable among Chinese patients with hypertension, although a significant difference was not observed with regard to DBP. It is important to maximize the potential of SMS text messaging and consultation by increasing the feasibility and acceptance of mobile interventions and conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis on this method. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1900026862; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=42717.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhai
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veternary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Wenjing Ji
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Naveel Atif
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Pengchao Li
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qianqian Du
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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11
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Li C, Xiong Y, Sit HF, Tang W, Hall BJ, Muessig KE, Wei C, Bao H, Wei S, Zhang D, Mi G, Yu F, Tucker JD. A Men Who Have Sex With Men-Friendly Doctor Finder Hackathon in Guangzhou, China: Development of a Mobile Health Intervention to Enhance Health Care Utilization. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e16030. [PMID: 32130189 PMCID: PMC7068469 DOI: 10.2196/16030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile health (mHeath)–based HIV and sexual health promotion among men who have sex with men (MSM) is feasible in low- and middle-income settings. However, many currently available mHealth tools on the market were developed by the private sector for profit and have limited input from MSM communities. Objective A health hackathon is an intensive contest that brings together participants from multidisciplinary backgrounds to develop a proposed solution for a specific health issue within a short period. The purpose of this paper was to describe a hackathon event that aimed to develop an mHealth tool to enhance health care (specifically HIV prevention) utilization among Chinese MSM, summarize characteristics of the final prototypes, and discuss implications for future mHealth intervention development. Methods The hackathon took place in Guangzhou, China. An open call for hackathon participants was advertised on 3 Chinese social media platforms, including Blued, a popular social networking app among MSM. All applicants completed a Web-based survey and were then scored. The top scoring applicants were grouped into teams based on their skills and content area expertise. Each team was allowed 1 month to prepare for the hackathon. The teams then came together in person with on-site expert mentorship for a 72-hour hackathon contest to develop and present mHealth prototype solutions. The judging panel included experts in psychology, public health, computer science, social media, clinical medicine, and MSM advocacy. The final prototypes were evaluated based on innovation, usability, and feasibility. Results We received 92 applicants, and 38 of them were selected to attend the April 2019 hackathon. A total of 8 teams were formed, including expertise in computer science, user interface design, business or marketing, clinical medicine, and public health. Moreover, 24 participants self-identified as gay, and 3 participants self-identified as bisexual. All teams successfully developed a prototype tool. A total of 4 prototypes were designed as a mini program that could be embedded within a popular Chinese social networking app, and 3 prototypes were designed as stand-alone apps. Common prototype functions included Web-based physician searching based on one’s location (8 prototypes), health education (4 prototypes), Web-based health counseling with providers or lay health volunteers (6 prototypes), appointment scheduling (8 prototypes), and between-user communication (2 prototypes). All prototypes included strategies to ensure privacy protection for MSM users, and some prototypes offered strategies to ensure privacy of physicians. The selected prototypes are undergoing pilot testing. Conclusions This study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of using a hackathon to create mHealth intervention tools. This suggests a different pathway to developing mHealth interventions and could be relevant in other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyan Li
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Yuan Xiong
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Fong Sit
- Global and Community Mental Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Weiming Tang
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Dermatology Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Brian J Hall
- Global and Community Mental Health Research Group, Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macau, China.,Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Chongyi Wei
- Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, United States.,Core Faculty, Rutgers Global Health Institute, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Huanyu Bao
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shufang Wei
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | | | | | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Goodness, Beijing, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- Social Entrepreneurship to Spur Health Global, Guangzhou, China.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Demena BA, Artavia-Mora L, Ouedraogo D, Thiombiano BA, Wagner N. A Systematic Review of Mobile Phone Interventions (SMS/IVR/Calls) to Improve Adherence and Retention to Antiretroviral Treatment in Low-and Middle-Income Countries. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2020; 34:59-71. [PMID: 32049555 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2019.0181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of mobile health technologies (mHealth) to ameliorate HIV care has considerably risen in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) since 2010. Yet, the discrepancies in the results of accompanying studies warrant an updated and systematic consolidation of all available evidence. We report a systematic review of studies testing whether text/image messages, interactive voice response reminders, or calls promote adherence and retention to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in LMICs. We systematically compiled studies published in English until June 2018 from PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, WHO database, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, and manual search. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2009 and used frequency analysis to assess reported findings. In total, we compiled 35 published articles: 27 completed studies and 8 protocols. Among the main 27 studies, 17 examine adherence, 5 retention, and 5 both measures. Results indicate that 56% report positive and statistically significantly impacts of mHealth on primary outcomes, the remaining 44% report insignificant results. While 41% of studies found a positive and significant effect for adherence, only 12% improved retention. The evidence shows ambiguous results (with high variability) about the effectiveness of mobile phone-assisted mHealth interventions to boost adherence and retention to ART. The literature also points to short follow-up periods, small samples, and limited geographical coverage. Hence, future research should focus on evaluating longer interventions with more patients spread across wider areas to address whether mHealth can be effectively used in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binyam Afewerk Demena
- Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Luis Artavia-Mora
- Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Dénis Ouedraogo
- Institut du Développement Rural, Université Nazi Boni (Former Université Polytechnique de Bobo-Dioulasso), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Boundia Alexandre Thiombiano
- Institut du Développement Rural, Université Nazi Boni (Former Université Polytechnique de Bobo-Dioulasso), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Natascha Wagner
- Institute of Social Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Hague, The Netherlands
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13
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Escobar-Viera C, Zhou Z, Morano JP, Lucero R, Lieb S, McIntosh S, Clauson KA, Cook RL. The Florida Mobile Health Adherence Project for People Living With HIV (FL-mAPP): Longitudinal Assessment of Feasibility, Acceptability, and Clinical Outcomes. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e14557. [PMID: 31913127 PMCID: PMC6996722 DOI: 10.2196/14557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background For people living with HIV (PLWH), antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial to attain better health outcomes. Although research has leveraged consumer health information technologies to enhance ART adherence, no study has evaluated feasibility and clinical outcomes associated with the usage of a commercially available, regularly updated mobile health (mHealth) app for improving ART adherence among PLWH. Objective This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical outcomes of Care4Today, an existing, free, biprogrammatic mHealth app for improving ART adherence among PLWH. Methods The Florida mHealth Application Adherence Project (FL-mAPP) was a 90-day longitudinal pilot study conducted in 3 public HIV clinics in Florida, United States. After obtaining informed consent, 132 participants completed a survey and then were given the option to try an existing mHealth app to help with ART adherence. Of these, 33.3% (44/132) declined, 31.1% (41/132) agreed but never used the app, and 35.6% (47/132) used the app. All were asked to complete follow-up surveys at 30 days and 90 days after enrollment. Usage data were used to assess feasibility. Clinical outcomes of self-reported ART adherence and chart-obtained HIV viral load and CD4+ T-cell counts were compared among those who used the platform (users) versus those who did not (nonusers). Participants and HIV care providers also provided responses to open-ended questions about what they liked and did not like about the app; comments were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Of 132 participants, 47 (35.6%) and 85 (64.4%) were categorized as users and nonusers, respectively. Among users, a Kaplan-Meier plot showed that 25 persons (53%) continued using the app after the 90-day follow-up. At 30-day follow-up, 13 (81.3%) of those who used the mHealth app reported ≥95% ART adherence, compared with 17 (58.6%) nonusers (P=.12). Overall, 39 (82%) users liked or somewhat liked using the platform. Participants’ favorite features were medication reminders, ability to create custom reminders, and adherence reports. Conclusions This longitudinal study found that a commercially available medication adherence mHealth app was a feasible and acceptable intervention to improve ART adherence among PLWH and engaged in clinical care across 3 public HIV clinics in the state of Florida. Overall, participants liked the Care4Today app and thought the medication reminders were their favorite feature. Generally, self-reports of ART adherence were better among users than nonusers, both at 30- and 90-day follow-ups. Further clinical research needs to address user fatigue for improving app usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Escobar-Viera
- Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Zhi Zhou
- College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Jamie P Morano
- Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Robert Lucero
- College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | | | | | - Kevin A Clauson
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Robert L Cook
- Southern HIV and Alcohol Research Consortium Center for Translational HIV Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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14
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Soares YKDC, Araújo TMED. Evidences on the effectiveness of text messages in the adherence to antiretroviral therapy in adults. Rev Gaucha Enferm 2020; 41:e20190242. [DOI: 10.1590/1983-1447.2020.20190242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the evidence available in the literature on the effectiveness of text messages in the adherence to antiretroviral therapy in adults. Method: Integrative review. The search for primary studies was carried out in MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, LILACS, and SCOPUS and the sample consisted of 18 studies, in April 2019, with no time delimitation. Results: The synthesis of the evidences indicated that, of the 18 analyzed articles, 11 showed an increase in the adherence rates to antiretroviral therapy and an increase in CD4, after using text messages. Conclusion: Text messages are an important tool for health education and the synthesis of knowledge can help nurses to obtain increasingly substantive adherence rates in relation to antiretroviral therapy.
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15
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Wang Z, Zhu Y, Cui L, Qu B. Electronic Health Interventions to Improve Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in People Living With HIV: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2019; 7:e14404. [PMID: 31621641 PMCID: PMC6913542 DOI: 10.2196/14404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Electronic health (eHealth) is increasingly used for self-management and service delivery of HIV-related diseases. With the publication of studies increasingly focusing on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, this makes it possible to quantitatively and systematically assess the effectiveness and feasibility of eHealth interventions. Objective The purpose of this review was to explore the effectiveness of eHealth interventions on improving ART adherence in people living with HIV. The effects of different intervention characteristics, participant characteristics, and study characteristics were also assessed. Methods We systematically searched MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and 3 conference abstract databases using search terms related to HIV, ART, adherence, and eHealth interventions. We independently screened the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the study quality and then compared the information in pairs. Articles published in English that used randomized controlled trials to assess eHealth interventions to improve ART adherence of people living with HIV were identified. We extracted the data including study characteristics, participant characteristics, intervention characteristics, and outcome measures. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias and study overall quality. Odds ratios, Cohen d, and their 95% CIs were estimated using random-effects models. We also performed multiple subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses to define any sources of heterogeneity. Results Among 3941 articles identified, a total of 19 studies (including 21 trials) met the inclusion criteria. We found 8 trials from high-income countries and 13 trials from low- and middle-income countries. Furthermore, at baseline, the health status of participants in 14 trials was healthy. Of the trials included, 7 of 21 used personality content, 12 of 21 used a 2-way communication strategy, and 7 of 21 used medical content. In the pooled analysis of 3937 participants (mean age: 35 years; 47.16%, 1857/3937 females), eHealth interventions significantly improved the ART adherence of people living with HIV (pooled Cohen d=0.25; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.46; P=.01). The interventions were also correlated with improved biochemical outcomes reported by 11 trials (pooled Cohen d=0.25; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.38; P<.001). The effect was sensitive to sample size (Q=5.56; P=.02) and study duration (Q=8.89; P=.003), but it could not be explained by other moderators. The primary meta-analysis result was stable in the 3 sensitivity analyses. Conclusions Some of the eHealth interventions may be used as an effective method to increase the ART adherence of people living with HIV. Considering that most of the trials included a small sample size and were conducted for a short duration, these results should be interpreted with caution. Future studies need to determine the features of eHealth interventions to better improve ART adherence along with long-term effectiveness of interventions, effectiveness of real-time adherence monitoring, enhancement of study design, and influences on biochemical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wang
- School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yaxin Zhu
- School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Liyuan Cui
- School of Medical Informatics, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bo Qu
- School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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16
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Ames HMR, Glenton C, Lewin S, Tamrat T, Akama E, Leon N. Clients' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication accessible via mobile devices for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health: a qualitative evidence synthesis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 10:CD013447. [PMID: 31608981 PMCID: PMC6791116 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Governments and health systems are increasingly using mobile devices to communicate with patients and the public. Targeted digital client communication is when the health system transmits information to particular individuals or groups of people, based on their health or demographic status. Common types of targeted client communication are text messages that remind people to go to appointments or take their medicines. Other types include phone calls, interactive voice response, or multimedia messages that offer healthcare information, advice, monitoring, and support. OBJECTIVES To explore clients' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication via mobile devices on topics related to reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, or adolescent health (RMNCAH). SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE (OvidSP), MEDLINE In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (OvidSP), Embase (Ovid), World Health Organization Global Health Library, and POPLINE databases for eligible studies from inception to 3-6 July 2017 dependant on the database (See appendix 2). SELECTION CRITERIA We included studies that used qualitative methods for data collection and analysis; that explored clinets' perceptions and experiences of targeted digital communication via mobile device in the areas of RMNCAH; and were from any setting globally. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used maximum variation purposive sampling for data synthesis, employing a three-step sampling frame. We conducted a framework thematic analysis using the Supporting the Use of Research Evidence (SURE) framework as our starting point. We assessed our confidence in the findings using the GRADE-CERQual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) approach. We used a matrix approach to explore whether potential implementation barriers identified in our synthesis had been addressed in the trials included in the related Cochrane Reviews of effectiveness. MAIN RESULTS We included 35 studies, from a wide range of countries on six continents. Nineteen studies were conducted in low- and middle-income settings and sixteen in high-income settings. Some of the studies explored the views of people who had experienced the interventions, whereas others were hypothetical in nature, asking what people felt they would like from a digital health intervention. The studies covered a range of digital targeted client communication, for example medication or appointment reminders, prenatal health information, support for smoking cessation while pregnant, or general sexual health information.Our synthesis showed that clients' experiences of these types of programmes were mixed. Some felt that these programmes provided them with feelings of support and connectedness, as they felt that someone was taking the time to send them messages (moderate confidence in the evidence). They also described sharing the messages with their friends and family (moderate confidence).However, clients also pointed to problems when using these programmes. Some clients had poor access to cell networks and to the internet (high confidence). Others had no phone, had lost or broken their phone, could not afford airtime, or had changed their phone number (moderate confidence). Some clients, particularly women and teenagers, had their access to phones controlled by others (moderate confidence). The cost of messages could also be a problem, and many thought that messages should be free of charge (high confidence). Language issues as well as skills in reading, writing, and using mobile phones could also be a problem (moderate confidence).Clients dealing with stigmatised or personal health conditions such as HIV, family planning, or abortion care were also concerned about privacy and confidentiality (high confidence). Some clients suggested strategies to deal with these issues, such as using neutral language and tailoring the content, timing, and frequency of messages (high confidence).Clients wanted messages at a time and frequency that was convenient for them (moderate confidence). They had preferences for different delivery channels (e.g. short message service (SMS) or interactive voice response) (moderate confidence). They also had preferences about message content, including new knowledge, reminders, solutions, and suggestions about health issues (moderate confidence). Clients' views about who sent the digital health communication could influence their views of the programme (moderate confidence).For an overview of the findings and our confidence in the evidence, please see the 'Summary of qualitative findings' tables.Our matrix shows that many of the trials assessing these types of programmes did not try to address the problems we identified, although this may have been a reporting issue. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Our synthesis identified several factors that can influence the successful implementation of targeted client communication programmes using mobile devices. These include barriers to use that have equity implications. Programme planners should take these factors into account when designing and implementing programmes. Future trial authors also need to actively address these factors and to report their efforts in their trial publications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather MR Ames
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
| | - Claire Glenton
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
| | - Simon Lewin
- Norwegian Institute of Public HealthPostboks 222 SkøyenOsloNorway0213
- South African Medical Research CouncilHealth Systems Research UnitPO Box 19070Cape TownSouth Africa7505
| | - Tigest Tamrat
- World Health OrganizationDepartment of Reproductive Health and Research20 Avenue AppiaGenevaSwitzerlandCH‐1211
| | - Eliud Akama
- University of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Natalie Leon
- South African Medical Research CouncilHealth Systems Research UnitPO Box 19070Cape TownSouth Africa7505
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Lima ICVD, Galvão MTG, Pedrosa SC, Farias OO, Silva CAC, Cunha GHD. Instant messaging application for the care of people living with HIV/aids. Rev Bras Enferm 2019; 72:1161-1166. [PMID: 31531636 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2017-0698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess a specific instant messaging application as a tool of care for people living with HIV/aids, based on analysis of the interactions between nurse and patients. METHOD Descriptive, quantitative study with 102 patients from two outpatient infectious disease clinics of Fortaleza, Ceará. During four months, participants received a message every 15 days, totaling eight messages, regarding: adherence to antiretroviral therapy; physical activity; social support; self-esteem; anxiety/depression; eating habits; alcohol and drugs; and sexuality. RESULTS There were 816 interactions, especially for dialogs about performing physical activity (27.87%), sharing of signs and symptoms (18.03%), report of engagement with treatment (9.84%) and requests of information on the intake of medicine (9.84%). Most participants showed satisfaction with the follow-up, with willingness to continue receiving messages (90.58%). CONCLUSION The use of this application is a viable strategy to improve care for people with HIV by promoting instant communication.
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Yang X, Kovarik CL. A systematic review of mobile health interventions in China: Identifying gaps in care. J Telemed Telecare 2019; 27:3-22. [PMID: 31319759 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x19856746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mobile health has a promising future in the healthcare system in most developed countries. China's rapidly developing mobile technology infrastructure offers an unprecedented opportunity for wide adoption of mobile health interventions in the delivery of effective and timely healthcare services. However, there is little data on the current extent of the mobile health landscape in China. The aim of this study was to systematically review the existing mobile health initiatives in China, characterise the technology used, disease categories targeted, location of the end user (urban versus rural), and examine the potential effects of mobile health on health system strengthening in China. Furthermore, we identified gaps in development and evaluation of the effectiveness of mobile health interventions. METHODS A systematic review of the literature published from 18 December 2015 - 3 April 2019 was conducted and yielded 2863 articles from English and Chinese retrieval database and trial registries, including PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge of Infrastructure and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. Studies were included if they used mobile health to support patient healthcare outcomes. RESULTS A total of 1129 full-text articles were assessed and 338 were included in this study. The review found that most studies targeted client education and behaviour change via applications (apps) (65.4%), including WeChat, and text messaging (short text messages) (19.8%) to improve patient medical treatment outcomes such as compliance and appointment reminders. The most common disease-specific mobile health interventions focused primarily on chronic disease management and behaviour change in cardiology (13.3%), endocrinology/diabetes (12.1%), behavioural health (11.8%), oncology (11.2%) and neurology (6.8%). The mobile health interventions related to nutrition (0.6%) and chronic respiratory diseases (1.6%) are underrepresented in mobile health in comparison to the burden of disease in China. The majority (90.0%) of the mobile health interventions were conducted exclusively in urban areas, with few opportunities reaching rural populations. CONCLUSIONS Overall, mobile health has a promising future in China, with recent rapid growth in initiatives. The majority are focused on education and behaviour change in the realm of chronic diseases and target patients in urban areas. The imbalance in mobile health between the urban and rural areas, as well as between population disease spectrum and health service delivery, pose substantial dilemmas. However, mobile health may be redirected to correct this imbalance, possibly improving access to healthcare services, and filling the gaps in order to improve health equity for the underserved populations in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshi Yang
- Department of Social Medicine, China Medical University, P.R. China.,Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carrie L Kovarik
- Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, USA
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Sales ROD, Silva RMD. mHealth in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections STIs. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2019; 25:4315-4325. [PMID: 33175040 DOI: 10.1590/1413-812320202511.11022019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze in the literature how the applications were developed and how they influence the prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). PubMed, CAPES Periodicals and Bireme databases were searched using the descriptors sexually transmitted diseases and mHealth combined by the Boolean connector AND. The search considered studies published between 2013 to 2017 available online in Portuguese and English. The results of the studies showed formative research was the most used method and focus group was the most used technique for data collection in the development of an application. This technique aims at the exchange of experience and allows discussion about issues inherent to infections. The applications were built with methodological rigor with the participation of users and with instructional resources that influence the management of the prevention and control of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Oliveira de Sales
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Fortaleza. Av. Washington Soares 1321, Edson Queiroz. 60811-905 Fortaleza CE Brasil.
| | - Raimunda Magalhães da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Fortaleza. Av. Washington Soares 1321, Edson Queiroz. 60811-905 Fortaleza CE Brasil.
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20
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Zhai P, Li Q, Gillani AH, Hayat K, Shi L, Wang S, Peng F, Xu S, Du Q, Cao Z, Morisky DE, Fang Y. The impact of short message services and personal consultation by pharmacy students on medication adherence and blood pressure control: study protocol for a cluster randomized trial. Patient Prefer Adherence 2019; 13:627-636. [PMID: 31118586 PMCID: PMC6503648 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s197858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Hypertension prevalence is mounting at a great pace in the People's Republic of China and poses a serious threat to health care systems. Medication nonadherence is one of the key factors in controlling high blood pressure. Our study uses two-arm cluster randomized controlled trial to investigate whether personal consultation by postgraduate pharmacy students and short message services (SMS) is effective in improving medication adherence and blood pressure control. Patients and methods: The trial will involve 384 treated patients in 8 community health care centers (CHCs). The 8 CHCs will be randomly assigned to intervention and control group in a ratio of 1:1. Patients in the intervention group will receive a personal consultation which identifies the barriers to medication adherence and SMS reminders which will be sent at 3-day intervals while patients in the control group will receive standard pharmaceutical care. Personal consultation by pharmacy students will be delivered at months 0 and 3. SMS messages will include educational information about normal blood pressure, complications of hypertension, salt intake, healthy diet, smoking cessation, regular exercise, weight control, antihypertensive medication schedule and treatment. Both groups will be followed for 6 months in order to compare their medication adherence and blood pressure at months 0, 3 and 6. The primary clinical outcome is the change in mean blood pressure and medication adherence measured at baseline, months 3 and 6. Secondary outcome is the proportion of patients reaching controlled blood pressure at months 3 and 6. Discussion: Pharmacy students led consultation will be conducted in the process of physical examination and SMS reminders which is at low cost, may be a feasible way to address the high prevalence of hypertension in the People's Republic of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Zhai
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ali Hassan Gillani
- Department of Pharmacy, Yusra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veternary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siyi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Peng
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sen Xu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Du
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zeyu Cao
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
| | - Donald E Morisky
- Department of Community Health Sciences, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA90095-1772, USA
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Yu FangXi'an Jiaotong University, No.76 Yanta West Road, Xi’an710061, Shaanxi Province, People’s Republic of ChinaTel +86 298 265 5132Fax +86 298 265 5424Email
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Guo Y, Xu Z, Qiao J, Hong YA, Zhang H, Zeng C, Cai W, Li L, Liu C. Development and Feasibility Testing of an mHealth (Text Message and WeChat) Intervention to Improve the Medication Adherence and Quality of Life of People Living with HIV in China: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2018; 6:e10274. [PMID: 30181109 PMCID: PMC6231726 DOI: 10.2196/10274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most people living with HIV (PLWH) reside in middle- and low-income countries with limited access to health services. Thus, cost-effective interventions that can reach a large number of PLWH are urgently needed. Objective The objective of our study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an mHealth intervention among PLWH in China. Methods Based on previous formative research, we designed an mHealth intervention program that included sending weekly reminders to participants via text messages (short message service, SMS) and articles on HIV self-management three times a week via a popular social media app WeChat. A total of 62 PLWH recruited from an HIV outpatient clinic were randomly assigned to intervention or control group. The intervention lasted for 3 months, and all participants were assessed for their medication adherence, presence of depression, quality of life (QoL), and CD4 (cluster of differentiation 4) counts. Upon completing the intervention, we interviewed 31 participants to further assess the feasibility and acceptability of the study. Results At baseline, the intervention and control groups did not differ in terms of demographic characteristics or any of the major outcome measures. About 85% (53/62) of the participants completed the intervention, and they provided valuable feedback on the design and content of the intervention. Participants preferred WeChat as the platform for receiving information and interactive communication for ease of access. Furthermore, they made specific recommendations about building trust, interactive features, and personalized feedback. In the follow-up assessment, the intervention and control groups did not differ in terms of major outcome measures. Conclusions This pilot study represents one of the first efforts to develop a text messaging (SMS)- and WeChat-based intervention that focused on improving the medication adherence and QoL of PLWH in China. Our data indicates that an mHealth intervention is feasible and acceptable to this population. The data collected through this pilot study will inform the future designs and implementations of mHealth interventions in this vulnerable population. We recommend more innovative mHealth interventions with rigorous designs for the PLWH in middle- and low-income countries. Trial Registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1800017987; http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=30448 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/71zC7Pdzs) Registered Report Ientifier RR1-10.2196/
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Guo
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Sun Yat-sen Center for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhimeng Xu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Qiao
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Y Alicia Hong
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Hanxi Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengbo Zeng
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiping Cai
- Department of Infectious Disease, Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linghua Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Eighth People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Quintana Y, Gonzalez Martorell EA, Fahy D, Safran C. A Systematic Review on Promoting Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV-infected Patients Using Mobile Phone Technology. Appl Clin Inform 2018; 9:450-466. [PMID: 29925099 DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1660516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is paramount to successful long-term suppression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). For poorly adherent patients with HIV, barriers to remaining adherent may be overcome by the implementation of targeted interventions delivered via mobile devices. This systematic review is focused specifically on mobile phone technologies to deliver adherence interventions in HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) populations. METHODS This review (PROSPERO #CRD42017065131) systematically extracted data from published literature from five databases on mobile phone interventions to improve adherence to ART for HIV. The reported studies had been conducted between 2007 and 2017. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane method ranking each criterion as low, high, or unclear risk of bias. RESULTS Of the 835 articles returned, we identified 26 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), retrospective and prospective cohort trials, or mixed method studies with a comparison group that fit criteria for inclusion. No standard measure of adherence was consistent throughout the examined studies, and assessments by self-report, pill counting, and medication event monitoring system (MEMS) were utilized. The studies reported mixed results, with 17 reporting significant improvements to adherence, 3 reporting improvements without supplying p-values, and 6 reporting no significant change or a reduction in adherence. CONCLUSION The mixed nature of the results exemplifies the need for more comprehensive approaches and larger scale trials to confirm results observed in limited cohort sizes. To better retain satisfactory adherence within the HIV population, and especially in low-resource settings, we recommend that future interventions incorporate multiple strategies: mobile-based reminders, social support structures, and personalized content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri Quintana
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | - Darren Fahy
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Charles Safran
- Division of Clinical Informatics, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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Real-time monitoring through the use of technology to enhance performances throughout HIV cascades. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2017. [PMID: 28650346 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000397] [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
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Controlling the HIV epidemic requires strong linkages across a 'cascade' of prevention, testing, and treatment services. Information and communications technology (ICT) offers the potential to monitor and improve the performance of this HIV cascade in real time. We assessed recent (<18 months) peer-reviewed publications regarding uses of ICT to improve performance through expanded and targeted reach, improved clinical service delivery, and reduced loss to follow-up. RECENT FINDINGS Research on ICT has tended to focus on a specific 'silo' of the HIV cascade rather than on tracking individuals or program performance across the cascade. Numerous innovations have been described, including use of social media to expand reach and improve programmatic targeting; technology in healthcare settings to strengthen coordination, guide clinical decision-making and improve clinical interactions; and telephone-based follow-up to improve treatment retention and adherence. With exceptions, publications have tended to be descriptive rather than evaluative, and the evidence-base for the effectiveness of ICT-driven interventions remains mixed. SUMMARY There is widespread recognition of the potential for ICT to improve HIV cascade performance, but with significant challenges. Successful implementation of real-time cascade monitoring will depend upon stakeholder engagement, compatibility with existing workflows, appropriate resource allocation, and managing expectations.
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Muessig KE, LeGrand S, Horvath KJ, Bauermeister JA, Hightow-Weidman LB. Recent mobile health interventions to support medication adherence among HIV-positive MSM. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2017; 12:432-441. [PMID: 28639990 PMCID: PMC5762120 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We describe recent mobile health (mHealth) interventions supporting antiretroviral therapy (ART) medication adherence among HIV-positive MSM. RECENT FINDINGS Keyword searches (1 January 2016-13 May 2017) identified 721 citations. Seven publications reporting on six studies met inclusion criteria. Five studies focused on MSM. Interventions primarily employed text messaging (n = 4), whereas two focused on smartphone apps and one on social media. Three studies measured intervention impact on adherence and found increased ART use intentions (n = 1), self-reported adherence (n = 1), and viral suppression (n = 1, no control group). Other mHealth interventions for HIV-positive MSM focused on status disclosure and reducing sexual risk. SUMMARY mHealth interventions to support ART adherence among MSM show acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy. No recent mHealth interventions for MSM measured impact on viral suppression compared with a control condition despite earlier (pre-2015) evidence for efficacy. Studies are underway that include multiple features designed to improve adherence within complex smartphone or internet-based platforms. Areas for future growth include overcoming measurement and engagement challenges, developing tools for coordinating patient and provider adherence data, testing combination interventions, and adapting efficacious interventions for new languages and geographic settings.
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