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Nkenfou CN, Nguefack-Tsague G, Nanfack AJ, Moudourou SA, Ngoufack MN, Yatchou LG, Elong EL, Kameni JJ, Tiga A, Kamgaing R, Kamgaing N, Fokam J, Ndjolo A. Strategic HIV Case Findings among Infants at Different Entry Points of Health Facilities in Cameroon: Optimizing the Elimination of Mother-To-Child Transmission in Low- and- Middle-Income Countries. Viruses 2024; 16:752. [PMID: 38793633 PMCID: PMC11125675 DOI: 10.3390/v16050752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV case finding is an essential component for ending AIDS, but there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of such a strategy in the pediatric population. We sought to determine HIV positivity rates among children according to entry points in Cameroon. METHODS A facility-based survey was conducted from January 2015 to December 2019 among mother-child couples at various entry points of health facilities in six regions of Cameroon. A questionnaire was administered to parents/guardians. Children were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Positivity rates were compared between entry points. Associations were quantified using the unadjusted positivity ratio (PR) for univariate analyses and the adjusted positivity ratio (aPR) for multiple Poisson regression analyses with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). p-values < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS Overall, 24,097 children were enrolled. Among them, 75.91% were tested through the HIV prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) program, followed by outpatient (13.27%) and immunization (6.27%) services. In total, PMTCT, immunization, and outpatient services accounted for 95.39% of children. The overall positivity was 5.71%, with significant differences (p < 0.001) between entry points. Univariate analysis showed that inpatient service (PR = 1.45; 95% CI: [1.08, 1.94]; p = 0.014), infant welfare (PR = 0.43; 95% CI: [0.28, 0.66]; p < 0.001), immunization (PR = 0.56; 95% CI: [0.45, 0.70]; p < 0.001), and PMTCT (PR = 0.41; 95% CI: [0.37, 0.46]; p < 0.001) were associated with HIV transmission. After adjusting for other covariates, only PMTCT was associated with transmission (aPR = 0.66; 95% CI: [0.51, 0.86]; p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS While PMTCT accounts for most tested children, high HIV positivity rates were found among children presenting at inpatient, nutrition, and outpatient services and HIV care units. Thus, systematic HIV testing should be proposed for all sick children presenting at the hospital who have escaped the PMTCT cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Nguefeu Nkenfou
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
- Higher Teacher Training College, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon
| | - Georges Nguefack-Tsague
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon;
| | - Aubin Joseph Nanfack
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Sylvie Agnes Moudourou
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | | | - Leaticia-Grace Yatchou
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Elise Lobe Elong
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Joel-Josephine Kameni
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Aline Tiga
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Rachel Kamgaing
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Nelly Kamgaing
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon;
| | - Joseph Fokam
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea P.O. Box 63, Cameroon
| | - Alexis Ndjolo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon; (A.J.N.); (S.A.M.); (L.-G.Y.); (E.L.E.); (J.-J.K.); (A.T.); (R.K.); (N.K.); (A.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé P.O. Box 3077, Cameroon;
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Rujumba J, King RL, Namale-Matovu J, Wavamunno P, Amone A, Gabagaya G, Rukundo G, Fowler MG, Homsy J, Seeley J, Musoke P. 'When I receive ARVs through my group, my heart settles': Participants' perceptions and experiences of Friends for Life Circles for Option B+ in Kampala and Mityana Districts, Uganda. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001326. [PMID: 37934754 PMCID: PMC10629658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The Friends for Life Circles (FLC) was a parallel randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of a group peer support intervention to support long-term adherence to Option B+ in Kampala and Mityana districts in Uganda. We explored FLC participants' experiences and perceptions of the intervention on adherence to Option B+ for PMTCT and potential implications for strengthening the PMTCT program. We collected data from six focus group discussions with lactating women enrolled in the FLC intervention, and from 14 key informant interviews with health workers, district and national level stakeholders, as well as male partners of FLC participants. Data were analysed using a content thematic approach in a continuous and iterative process. Women described the FLC intervention as acceptable and beneficial in enhancing their understanding of HIV and the need for ART. The FLC helped women, especially those newly diagnosed with HIV infection to come to terms with their diagnosis and overcome the fear of death linked to testing HIV positive, and provided opportunities to enhance ART initiation, resumption and adherence. The FLC provided safe spaces for women, to learn about ART, and to receive support from peers including adherence reminders through home visits and 'coded' reminder messages. Receiving ART from support groups protected members from stigma and long lines at health facilities. Fear of stigma, health system challenges, the high cost of caring for animals and lack of money to save in groups were key challenges noted. The FLC support groups were crucial in providing needed support for women to initiate, resume and adhere to lifelong ART for Option B+. It is important that women who test HIV positive and start ART for life receive psychosocial support from peers and health workers to improve chances of preventing HIV transmission from mothers to children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Rujumba
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel L. King
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Joyce Namale-Matovu
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Priscilla Wavamunno
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alexander Amone
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Gabagaya
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gordon Rukundo
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mary Glenn Fowler
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Jaco Homsy
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Janet Seeley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa Musoke
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
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3
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Wagner GJ, Gwokyalya V, Akena D, Nakigudde J, McBain R, Faherty L, Ngo V, Nakku J, Kyohangirwe L, Banegura A, Beyeza-Kashesya J, Wanyenze RK. Stressors and Maladaptive Coping Mechanisms Associated with Elevated Perinatal Depressive Symptoms and Suicidality Among Women Living with HIV in Uganda. Int J Behav Med 2023; 30:743-752. [PMID: 36127627 PMCID: PMC10084842 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-022-10124-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal depression is highly prevalent among women living with HIV and contributes to nonadherence to the PMTCT (prevention of mother-to-child transmission) care continuum. We examined correlates of elevated depressive symptoms and suicidality in this population. METHOD Baseline data from 391 Ugandan women enrolled in a cluster randomized controlled trial of a depression care intervention were analyzed. Adult women with confirmed sero-positive HIV status were eligible if their gestation period was ≤ 32 weeks, and they had a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score ≥ 5. Correlates of elevated depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 > 9) and moderate-to-severe suicidal ideation (more than half of the days in the prior 2 weeks) were assessed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models, controlling for clustering within study sites by using a random effects specification (with study site as the random effect), as well as age and education. RESULTS The mean PHQ-9 score was 12.7 (SD = 5.1); 267 (68.3%) participants had elevated depressive symptoms, and 51 (13.0%) reported moderate-to-severe suicidality. In multiple logistic regression analysis, perceived provider stigma of childbearing [OR (95% CI) = 1.81 (1.16, 2.84)], greater use of negative problem-solving [OR (95% CI) = 1.09 (1.04, 1.15)], and lower general social support [OR (95% CI) = 0.50 (0.30, 0.82)] were correlated with elevated depression symptoms, while moderate-to-severe suicidal ideation was correlated with greater experience of physical interpersonal violence (IPV) and greater use of negative problem-solving. CONCLUSIONS Programs aimed at improving provider support for the childbearing needs of persons living with HIV, supporting women who are experiencing IPV, and helping women to develop effective problem-solving skills and social supports may reduce symptoms of perinatal depression and help optimize PMTCT care outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03892915 (registered March 21, 2019).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Laura Faherty
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Ngo
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York City, NY, USA
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4
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Nuoh RD, Nyarko KM, Noora CL, Addo-Lartey A, Nortey P, Nuolabong C, Lartey M, Kenu E. Barriers to early infant diagnosis of HIV in the Wa Municipality and Lawra District of Upper West Region, Ghana. Ghana Med J 2021; 54:83-90. [PMID: 33536673 PMCID: PMC7837354 DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v54i2s.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective We identified socio-demographic, health system and psycho-social barriers to Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) of HIV in the Upper West Region of Ghana. Design An unmatched case control study of 96 cases and 96 controls was conducted in the ART centers in Lawra district and Wa Municipality between December 2014 and April 2015. Setting A public health facility Participants We defined a case as an HIV positive mother with an exposed infant who received EID service between January 2011 and December 2014. A control was defined as HIV Positive Mother with an exposed infant who did not receive EID services between January 2011 and December 2014. Main outcome EID by dry blood spot Deoxyribonucleic acid Polymerase chain reaction. Results A total of 192 mother-infant pairs were assessed. The mean age of infants at testing for cases was 17.3±14.9 weeks. Mother-to-child-transmission-rate was 2.3%. Factors associated with EID testing included: mother being formally employed (cOR=2.0: 95%CI:1.1–3.8), maternal formal education (cOR=2.0, 95%CI: 1.1–3.6) and maternal independent source of income (cOR 2.2, 95%CI 1.2–4.1). After adjusting for confounders, maternal independent income source was associated with EID testing (aOR 2.2, 95%CI 1.2–4.1). Median turn-around time of EID result was 11 weeks (IQR 4–27 weeks). Conclusion Women need to be empowered to gain an independent source of income. This can help maximize the benefits of e-MTCT and increase EID in the Upper West Region of Ghana. Funding This work was funded by the authors
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert D Nuoh
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kofi M Nyarko
- Namibia Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Charles L Noora
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adolphina Addo-Lartey
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Priscillia Nortey
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Culbert Nuolabong
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Margaret Lartey
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ernest Kenu
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana Legon, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
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5
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Alamdo AG, King EJ. Retention in Care and Health Outcomes of HIV-Exposed Infants in a Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) Cohort in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2021; 13:171-179. [PMID: 33603493 PMCID: PMC7882432 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s286347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Currently, a high number of mother-infant cohorts do not complete the full cascade of prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services in Ethiopia. This study examined the level of HIV-exposed infants discharged negative and rate of loss to follow-up (LTFU) in a mother-infant cohort in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted in selected public health facilities of Addis Ababa. Data were abstracted from infant and mother registration cards and mother-infant cohort follow-up charts. The proportion of HIV-exposed infants discharged negative was examined. LTFU was then analyzed and a Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to estimate Cumulative probability of LTFU among the different groups. Cox proportional hazard model was used to determine significant factors associated with LTFU. RESULTS Three hundred fifty six mother-infant pairs were included in this study. The LTFU rate at the end of follow-up period was of 13.2% (95% CI= 9.83-17.6%) and an overall HIV transmission rate of 0.61% was observed. Younger women (AHR=0.90, 95% CI = 0.83-0.97) and those who were newly diagnosed at the time of entry to PMTCT (AHR=0.35, 95% CI = 0.18-0.68) were less likely to complete PMTCT. CONCLUSION High retention to PMTCT services and low mother-to-child HIV transmission rate was observed. To successfully achieve the PMTCT program outcomes, more emphasis should be given to younger women and to those newly enrolled in the PMTCT program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andamlak Gizaw Alamdo
- Department of Public Health, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Elizabeth J King
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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6
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Kassaw MW, Abebe AM, Abate BB, Getu MA, Kassie AM. Mortality and Loss to Follow-Up Among HIV-Exposed Infants After Option B + Guideline Implementation in Amhara Regional State Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:591963. [PMID: 34858894 PMCID: PMC8631536 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.591963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV program (PMTCT) is a comprehensive approach that aimed for the wellbeing of all HIV-infected women, to prevent new HIV infection among infants born to HIV-positive mothers, and providing management for HIV-positive women and infants. Nevertheless, there was considerably high attrition within the prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs that was merely because of loss to follow-up (LTFU) followed by mortality. In resource-limited countries, one-third of infected children die before 1 year, and more than half of them die before 2 years. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence or incidence of mortality and LTFU among infants born from HIV-positive mothers in the Amhara regional state referral hospitals, Ethiopia. Methods: This study was conducted in five Amhara regional state referral hospitals' prevention of mother-to-child transmission departments. A simple random sampling technique with proportional allocation was used to assess the outcomes of 221 exposed infants. A retrospective cohort design was used in selecting the 221 exposed infants' document from the referral hospitals of the region, Amhara. The exposed infants' profiles were documented between January 1, 2014 and May 30, 2017. Results: This study described attritions (death and loss-to-follow-up) of exposed babies in PMTCT departments of Amhara regional state referral hospitals in Ethiopia. In this study, low LTFU with zero death was reported. Residence, immunization status of babies, and place of delivery were independent factors of LTFU. Conclusions: The cumulative incidence of mortality in this study was zero. This assured that the recommended option is substantial for the elimination of HIV-caused death in 2030 as per WHO plan. However, the cumulative incidence of LTFU was not zero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesfin Wudu Kassaw
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldiya, Ethiopia
| | - Ayele Mamo Abebe
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Biruk Beletew Abate
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldiya, Ethiopia
| | - Mikiyas Amare Getu
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldiya, Ethiopia
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7
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Kassaw MW, Abebe AM, Abate BB, Tlaye KG, Kassie AM. Mother-to-child HIV transmission and its associations among exposed infants after Option B+ guidelines implementation in the Amhara regional state referral hospitals, Ethiopia. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 95:268-275. [PMID: 32247052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been a global public health priority. In 2013, the World Health Organization recommended antiretroviral therapy administration to all HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women regardless of the CD4 cell count or clinical stage, referred to 'Option B+'. Ethiopia has had a high prevalence of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The prevalence of transmission in breastfeeding mothers was 24% in 2012 and increased to more than 30% in 2015. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HIV transmission and its associations among infants born to HIV-positive mothers who had enrolled with the five Amhara regional state referral hospitals' prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission departments, Ethiopia. METHODS The study used a retrospective single cohort design, and simple random sampling with proportional allocation to select the medical records of 217 exposed infants. The data collected from each hospital were documented from January 1, 2014 to May 30, 2017. The cumulative incidence and prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants in the region were presented using figures and tables. RESULTS The prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants at enrollment to the program was 2.3% (five cases) (95% CI, 0.5-4.6%), whereas the prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants on completion of the program was 3.7% (8) (95% CI, 1.4-6.5%). The cumulative incidence of transmission on completing the program was 1.6% (3) (95% CI, 0.0-3.2%). CONCLUSIONS In contrast to the expected outcome of the World Health Organization's 'Option B+' guidelines regarding HIV transmission, this study found the cumulative incidence of HIV transmission on completing the program and the overall prevalence of HIV infection to be high. Although some studies have reported significant reductions in mother-to-child transmission of HIV, there are still considerable challenges in preventing this transmission in the Amhara region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesfin Wudu Kassaw
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayele Mamo Abebe
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, PO Box 400, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia.
| | - Biruk Beletew Abate
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Kenean Getaneh Tlaye
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayelign Mengesha Kassie
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
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8
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Price JT, Vwalika B, Rittenhouse KJ, Mwape H, Winston J, Freeman BL, Sindano N, Stringer EM, Kasaro MP, Chi BH, Stringer JS. Adverse birth outcomes and their clinical phenotypes in an urban Zambian cohort. Gates Open Res 2020; 3:1533. [PMID: 32161903 PMCID: PMC7047437 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13046.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Few cohort studies of pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa use rigorous gestational age dating and clinical phenotyping. As a result, incidence and risk factors of adverse birth outcomes are inadequately characterized. Methods: The Zambian Preterm Birth Prevention Study (ZAPPS) is a prospective observational cohort established to investigate adverse birth outcomes at a referral hospital in urban Lusaka. This report describes ZAPPS phase I, enrolled August 2015 to September 2017. Women were followed through pregnancy and 42 days postpartum. At delivery, study staff assessed neonatal vital status, birthweight, and sex, and assigned a delivery phenotype. Primary outcomes were: (1) preterm birth (PTB; delivery <37 weeks), (2) small-for-gestational-age (SGA; <10 th percentile weight-for-age at birth), and (3) stillbirth (SB; delivery of an infant without signs of life). Results: ZAPPS phase I enrolled 1450 women with median age 27 years (IQR 23-32). Most participants (68%) were multiparous, of whom 41% reported a prior PTB and 14% reported a prior stillbirth. Twins were present in 3% of pregnancies, 3% of women had short cervix (<25mm), 24% of women were HIV seropositive, and 5% were syphilis seropositive. Of 1216 (84%) retained at delivery, 15% were preterm, 18% small-for-gestational-age, and 4% stillborn. PTB risk was higher with prior PTB (aRR 1.88; 95%CI 1.32-2.68), short cervix (aRR 2.62; 95%CI 1.68-4.09), twins (aRR 5.22; 95%CI 3.67-7.43), and antenatal hypertension (aRR 2.04; 95%CI 1.43-2.91). SGA risk was higher with twins (aRR 2.75; 95%CI 1.81-4.18) and antenatal hypertension (aRR 1.62; 95%CI 1.16-2.26). SB risk was higher with short cervix (aRR 6.42; 95%CI 2.56-16.1). Conclusio ns: This study confirms high rates of PTB, SGA, and SB among pregnant women in Lusaka, Zambia. Accurate gestational age dating and careful ascertainment of delivery data are critical to understanding the scope of adverse birth outcomes in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan T Price
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia.,UNC Global Projects - Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bellington Vwalika
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Katelyn J Rittenhouse
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Winston
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bethany L Freeman
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth M Stringer
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Benjamin H Chi
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey Sa Stringer
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Price JT, Vwalika B, Rittenhouse KJ, Mwape H, Winston J, Freeman BL, Sindano N, Stringer EM, Kasaro MP, Chi BH, Stringer JS. Adverse birth outcomes and their clinical phenotypes in an urban Zambian cohort. Gates Open Res 2020; 3:1533. [PMID: 32161903 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13046.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Few cohort studies of pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa use rigorous gestational age dating and clinical phenotyping. As a result, incidence and risk factors of adverse birth outcomes are inadequately characterized. Methods: The Zambian Preterm Birth Prevention Study (ZAPPS) is a prospective observational cohort established to investigate adverse birth outcomes at a referral hospital in urban Lusaka. This report describes ZAPPS phase I, enrolled August 2015 to September 2017. Women were followed through pregnancy and 42 days postpartum. At delivery, study staff assessed neonatal vital status, birthweight, and sex, and assigned a delivery phenotype. Primary outcomes were: (1) preterm birth (PTB; delivery <37 weeks), (2) small-for-gestational-age (SGA; <10 th percentile weight-for-age at birth), and (3) stillbirth (SB; delivery of an infant without signs of life). Results: ZAPPS phase I enrolled 1450 women with median age 27 years (IQR 23-32). Most participants (68%) were multiparous, of whom 41% reported a prior PTB and 14% reported a prior stillbirth. Twins were present in 3% of pregnancies, 3% of women had short cervix (<25mm), 24% of women were HIV seropositive, and 5% were syphilis seropositive. Of 1216 (84%) retained at delivery, 15% were preterm, 18% small-for-gestational-age, and 4% stillborn. PTB risk was higher with prior PTB (aRR 1.88; 95%CI 1.32-2.68), short cervix (aRR 2.62; 95%CI 1.68-4.09), twins (aRR 5.22; 95%CI 3.67-7.43), and antenatal hypertension (aRR 2.04; 95%CI 1.43-2.91). SGA risk was higher with twins (aRR 2.75; 95%CI 1.81-4.18) and antenatal hypertension (aRR 1.62; 95%CI 1.16-2.26). SB risk was higher with short cervix (aRR 6.42; 95%CI 2.56-16.1). Conclusio ns: This study confirms high rates of PTB, SGA, and SB among pregnant women in Lusaka, Zambia. Accurate gestational age dating and careful ascertainment of delivery data are critical to understanding the scope of adverse birth outcomes in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan T Price
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia.,UNC Global Projects - Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Bellington Vwalika
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Zambia School of Medicine, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Katelyn J Rittenhouse
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Winston
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bethany L Freeman
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth M Stringer
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Benjamin H Chi
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey Sa Stringer
- Division of Global Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Tsehay AK. Factors associated with HIV-positive sero-status among exposed infants attending care at health facilities in Bahir Dar administration, Ethiopia: Evidence from medical records. COGENT MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/2331205x.2019.1623754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Asmamaw Ketemaw Tsehay
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
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11
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Nyati-Jokomo Z, Chitsike I, Mbizvo E, January J. 'If nurses were in our shoes would they breastfeed their own babies?' A qualitative inquiry on challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers on the PMTCT programme in a rural community in Zimbabwe. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:191. [PMID: 31146725 PMCID: PMC6543664 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2336-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV programme in Zimbabwe has had remarkable success despite the country's economic challenges. The aim of this study was to explore the challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers on the PMTCT programme. METHOD Narratives from 15 women (age range 19-35 years) were collected at two rural health facilities in Zimbabwe through in-depth interviews over a period of 6 months. Thematic analysis was used to describe breastfeeding mothers' experiences and challenges of being on the PMTCT programme. RESULTS The findings suggest that breastfeeding women on the PMTCT programme face challenges that include internal, external and institutional stigma and discrimination. Women reported a sense of powerlessness in decision making on following through with the PMTCT programme and were ambivalent regarding disclosure of their HIV status to their partners and significant others. CONCLUSION HIV and AIDS programmes should pay attention to women's readiness for interventions. There is need to understand women's life experiences to ensure informed and targeted programming for PMTCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibusiso Nyati-Jokomo
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Inam Chitsike
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Elizabeth Mbizvo
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
| | - James January
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, PO Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
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12
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Lentoor AG. The Association of Home Environment and Caregiver Factors With Neurocognitive Function in Pre-school- and School-Aged Perinatally Acquired HIV-Positive Children on cART in South Africa. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:77. [PMID: 30972309 PMCID: PMC6443980 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Children with perinatally acquired HIV in low resource settings are at risk for neurocognitive impairments not only due to the direct effects of HIV on the brain and in utero ART exposure but also due to factors associated with their environment. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the association between home environment and caregiver factors and the neurocognitive function of pre-school- and-school-aged HIV-positive South African children from low resource rural communities. Materials and Methods: The Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence-III was administered to assess the neurocognitive functioning of 152 purposively sampled perinatally acquired HIV-positive children on cART, aged 3 years to 7 years 6 months (mean age 63.13 months). The primary caregivers (n = 152) completed the Home Screening Questionnaire to assess the quality of the home-environment of the children. Results :The results showed that unfavorable environment, caregiver type, and quality of stimulation in the home were negatively associated with the neurocognitive development of perinatally HIV-positive children on cART. Most of the HIV-positive children (n = 95) were under the care of an extended relative. Older HIV-positive boys, reared by biological mothers, who also lived in suboptimal and poor quality home-environments had poorer neurocognitive function when compared to HIV-positive children reared by non-biological (extended relatives) caregivers, [F (2,149) = 14.42, p < 0.001]. Conclusion: The child's early home environment is associated with general neurocognitive development, which highlights the need for early psychosocial interventions that can promote better cognitive outcomes among children living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio G Lentoor
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Medicine, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
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13
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Mutsaka-Makuvaza MJ, Matsena-Zingoni Z, Tshuma C, Ray S, Zhou XN, Webster B, Midzi N. Reinfection of urogenital schistosomiasis in pre-school children in a highly endemic district in Northern Zimbabwe: a 12 months compliance study. Infect Dis Poverty 2018; 7:102. [PMID: 30268157 PMCID: PMC6162945 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-018-0483-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In light of the shift to aiming for schistosomiasis elimination, the following are needed: data on reinfection patterns, participation, and sample submission adherence of all high-risk age groups to intervention strategies. This study was conducted to assess prevalence, reinfections along with consecutive participation, sample submission adherence, and effect of treatment on schistosomiasis prevalence in children aged five years and below in an endemic district in Zimbabwe, over one year. Methods The study was conducted from February 2016–February 2017 in Madziwa area, Shamva district. Following community mobilisation, mothers brought their children aged 5 years and below for recruitment at baseline and also urine sample collection at baseline, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months follow up surveys. At each time point, urine was tested for urogenital schistosomiasis by urine filtration and children found positive received treatment. Schistosoma haematobium prevalence, reinfections as well as children participation, and urine sample submission at each visit were assessed at each time point for one year. Results Of the 535 children recruited from the five communities, 169 (31.6%) participated consecutively at all survey points. The highest mean number of samples submitted was 2.9 among communities and survey points. S. haematobium prevalence significantly reduced from 13.3% at baseline to 2.8% at 12 months for all participants and from 24.9% at baseline to 1.8% at 12 months (P < 0.001) for participants coming at all- time points. Among the communities, the highest baseline prevalence was found in Chihuri for both the participants coming consecutively (38.5%, 10/26) and all participants (20.4%, 21/103). Reinfections were significantly high at 9 months follow up survey (P = 0.021) and in Mupfure (P = 0.003). New infections significantly decreased over time (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of acquiring schistosomiasis was high in some communities (P < 0.05). Conclusions S. haematobium infections and reinfections are seasonal and depend on micro-geographical settings. The risk of being infected with schistosomes in pre-school aged children increases with increasing age. Sustained treatment of infected individuals in a community reduces prevalence overtime. Participation compliance at consecutive visits and sample submission adherence are important for effective operational control interventions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40249-018-0483-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masceline Jenipher Mutsaka-Makuvaza
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.,National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, P.O. Box CY573, Causeway, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Zvifadzo Matsena-Zingoni
- National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, P.O. Box CY573, Causeway, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, 27 St Andrews' Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
| | - Cremance Tshuma
- Mashonaland Central Provincial Health Office, Ministry of health and Child Care, Bindura, Zimbabwe
| | - Sunanda Ray
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bonnie Webster
- Parasites and Vectors Division, National History Museum, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Midzi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, P. O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.
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Endalamaw A, Demsie A, Eshetie S, Habtewold TD. A systematic review and meta-analysis of vertical transmission route of HIV in Ethiopia. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:283. [PMID: 29929480 PMCID: PMC6013937 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of mother-to-child transmission rate of HIV is high and risk factors are common in Ethiopia. This systematic review and meta-analysis intended to provide the pooled estimation of mother-to-child transmission rate and its risk factors in Ethiopia. METHODS We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Web of Science electronic databases for all available references. We included observational studies including case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. The search was further limited to studies conducted in Ethiopia and publish in English. Heterogeneity was checked using the I2 statistic. Egger's test and the funnel plot were used to assess publication bias. A meta-analysis using a weighted inverse variance random-effects model was performed. RESULTS A total of 18 studies with 6253 individuals were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Of these, 14 studies with 4624 individuals were used to estimate the prevalence. The estimated pooled prevalence of mother-to-child transmission of HIV was 11.4% (95% CI = 9.1-13.7). The pooled adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of mother-to-child transmission of HIV for the infants from rural area was 3.8 (95% CI = 1.4 to 6.3), infants delivered at home was 3.2 (95% CI = 1.2 to 5.2), infant didn't take antiretroviral prophylaxis was 5.8 (95% CI = 1.5 to 10.3), mother didn't take antiretroviral prophylaxis was 6.1 (95% CI = 2.5 to 9.6), mothers didn't receive PMTCT intervention was 5.1 (95% CI = 1.6, 8.6), and on mixed feeding was 4.3 (95% CI = 1.8 to 6.7). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that mother-to-child transmission rate of HIV was high in Ethiopia. Being from the rural residence, home delivery, not taking antiretroviral prophylaxis, the absence of PMTCT intervention, and mixed infant feeding practices increased the risk of HIV transmission. TRIAL REGISTRATION It is registered in the Prospero database: (PROSPERO 2017: CRD42017078232 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Endalamaw
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.BOX: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Amare Demsie
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.BOX: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Setegn Eshetie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfa Dejenie Habtewold
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Centre, Groningen, The Netherlands.,University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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15
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Changing times? Gender roles and relationships in maternal, newborn and child health in Malawi. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2017; 17:321. [PMID: 28946847 PMCID: PMC5613316 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-017-1523-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For years, Malawi remained at the bottom of league tables on maternal, neonatal and child health. Although maternal mortality ratios have reduced and significant progress has been made in reducing neonatal morality, many challenges in achieving universal access to maternal, newborn and child health care still exist in Malawi. In Malawi, there is still minimal, though increasing, male involvement in ANC/PMTCT/MNCH services, but little understanding of why this is the case. The aim of this paper is to explore the role and involvement of men in MNCH services, as part of the broader understanding of those community system factors. Methods This paper draws on the qualitative data collected in two districts in Malawi to explore the role and involvement of men across the MNCH continuum of care, with a focus on understanding the community systems barriers and enablers to male involvement. A total of 85 IDIs and 20 FGDs were conducted from August 2014 to January 2015. Semi-structure interview guides were used to guide the discussion and a thematic analysis approach was used for data analysis. Results Policy changes and community and health care provider initiatives stimulated men to get involved in the health of their female partners and children. The informal bylaws, the health care provider strategies and NGO initiatives created an enabling environment to support ANC and delivery service utilisation in Malawi. However, traditional gender roles in the home and the male ‘unfriendly’ health facility environments still present challenges to male involvement. Conclusion Traditional notions of men as decision makers and socio-cultural views on maternal health present challenges to male involvement in MNCH programs. Health care provider initiatives need to be sensitive and mindful of gender roles and relations by, for example, creating gender inclusive programs and spaces that aim at reducing perceptions of barriers to male involvement in MNCH services so that programs and spaces that are aimed at involving men are designed to welcome men as full partners in the overall goals for improving maternal, neonatal and child health outcomes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12884-017-1523-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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16
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Decker S, Rempis E, Schnack A, Braun V, Rubaihayo J, Busingye P, Tumwesigye NM, Harms G, Theuring S. Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV: Postpartum adherence to Option B+ until 18 months in Western Uganda. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179448. [PMID: 28662036 PMCID: PMC5491007 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2012, the WHO recommends Option B+ for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. This approach entails the initiation of lifelong antiretroviral therapy in all HIV-positive pregnant women, also implying protection during breastfeeding for 12 months or longer. Research on long-term adherence to Option B+ throughout breastfeeding is scarce to date. Therefore, we conducted a prospective observational cohort study in Fort Portal, Western Uganda, to assess adherence to Option B+ until 18 months postpartum. In 2013, we recruited 67 HIV-positive, Option B+ enrolled women six weeks after giving birth and scheduled them for follow-up study visits after six, twelve and 18 months. Two adherence measures, self-reported drug intake and amount of drug refill visits, were combined to define adherence, and were assessed together with feeding information at all study visits. At six months postpartum, 51% of the enrolled women were considered to be adherent. Until twelve and 18 months postpartum, adherence for the respective follow-up interval decreased to 19% and 20.5% respectively. No woman was completely adherent until 18 months. At the same time, 76.5% of the women breastfed for ≥12 months. Drug adherence was associated with younger age (p<0.01), lower travel costs (p = 0.02), and lower number of previous deliveries (p = 0.04). Long-term adherence to Option B+ seems to be challenging. Considering that in our cohort, prolonged breastfeeding until ≥12 months was widely applied while postpartum adherence until the end of breastfeeding was poor, a potential risk of postpartum vertical transmission needs to be taken seriously into account for Option B+ implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Decker
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eva Rempis
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexandra Schnack
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vera Braun
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - John Rubaihayo
- Public Health Department, Mountains of the Moon University, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | | | | | - Gundel Harms
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefanie Theuring
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité- Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- * E-mail:
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17
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Musomba R, Mubiru F, Nakalema S, Mackline H, Kalule I, Kiragga AN, Ratanshi RP, Castelnuovo B. Describing Point of Entry into Care and Being Lost to Program in a Cohort of HIV Positive Pregnant Women in a Large Urban Centre in Uganda. AIDS Res Treat 2017; 2017:3527563. [PMID: 28469942 PMCID: PMC5392405 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3527563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. We aim to describe the time of entry into care and factors associated with being lost to program (LTP) in pregnant women on Option B Plus in an integrated HIV and antenatal care (ANC) clinic in Uganda. Methods. We included all pregnant women enrolled into the integrated HIV-ANC clinic from January 2012 to 31st July 2014, while the follow up period extended up to October 30th 2015. LTP was defined as being out of care for ≥3 months. Results. Overall 856 women were included. Only 36.4% (86/236) of the women were enrolled in the first trimester. Overall 69 (8.1%) were LTP. In the multivariate analysis older women (HR: 0.80 per five-year increase, CI: 0.64-1.0, and P = 0.060) and women on ART at the time of pregnancy (0.58, CI: 0.34-0.98, and P = 0.040) were more likely not to be LTP. Among women already on ART at the time of pregnancy no factor was associated with LTP. Conclusion. Our results suggest the need for interventions to enhance prompt linkage of HIV positive women to HIV services for ART initiation and for increased retention particularly in young and ART naive women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Musomba
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frank Mubiru
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Shadia Nakalema
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hope Mackline
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Kalule
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes N. Kiragga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rosalind Parkes Ratanshi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
- Cambridge Institute of Public Health, Cambridge, UK
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
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18
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Obai G, Mubeezi R, Makumbi F. Rate and associated factors of non-retention of mother-baby pairs in HIV care in the elimination of mother-to-child transmission programme, Gulu-Uganda: a cohort study. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:48. [PMID: 28100207 PMCID: PMC5241946 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-1998-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor retention in HIV care of mother-baby pairs remains a public health challenge in the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (eMTCT) of HIV. We determined the rate of non-retention and time to non-retention of mother-baby pairs and associated factors in Gulu district, Northern Uganda. Methods Mother-baby pairs enrolled into the eMTCT programme at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital (GRRH) and Lacor Hospital (LH) were retrospectively followed for 18 months. The primary outcomes were the rate of non-retention and time to non-retention of mother-baby pairs in HIV care. Data were abstracted from the antiretroviral treatment and early infant diagnosis (EID) registers, and mother/baby appointment books at the health facilities. Additional data on possible reasons for non-retention were obtained from cross-sectional interviews of mothers. Time to non-retention was calculated as the duration between enrolment of mother-baby pair into care and the date when the mother and/or baby missed a scheduled visit and did not return within 30 days. Factors associated with time to non-retention were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. The measures of association were expressed as hazards ratio (HR) with 95% confidence intervals. Alpha was set at 0.05. The adjusted analysis includes variables with p <0.2 in the bivariable analysis or considered potential confounders. The Analysis used Stata version 12. Results A total of 410 mother-baby pairs were enrolled in this study. Overall, non-retention by 18 month was 30.5%; higher at GRRH (34.7%) than LH (25.8%), p = 0.049. Non-retention was higher among pairs where the infant had no EID, adjusted (adj) HR = 5.81; 95% CI (2.55, 13.24), non-disclosure of mother’s HIV status, adj.HR = 1.86; 95% CI (1.22, 2.85), and lack of privacy during counselling session, adj.HR = 1.86; 95% CI (1.26, 2.85). Non-retention was about 60% lower [adj.HR = 0.43; 95% CI (0.20, 0.92)] among pairs where the mothers understood and appreciated the importance of adhering to all clinic appointments together with the baby. Conclusion Nearly a third of mother-baby pairs are not retained in HIV care. Lack of EID services, poor quality service, non-disclosure of mother’s HIV status, and understanding the importance of adhering to all appointments together with the baby, were associated with time to non-retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Obai
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, Uganda.
| | - Ruth Mubeezi
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fredrick Makumbi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University School of Public Health, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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19
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Zhou DT, Oektedalen O, Shawarira-Bote S, Stray-Pedersen B. Changes in coronary heart disease risk profiles of HIV patients in Zimbabwe over 9 months: a follow-up study. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2016; 8:165-174. [PMID: 27822124 PMCID: PMC5087756 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s113206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Dyslipidemia, hypertension, inflammation, and coronary heart disease (CHD) are adverse events in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients even if they are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Yet, data on CHD risk induced by HIV or ART in sub-Saharan Africa are limited. The aim of this longitudinal study was to describe changes in CHD risk profiles measured by lipids, inflammatory markers, and Framingham scores among HIV-positive patients previously reported from Harare, Zimbabwe. Patients were grouped into ART-experienced patients (n=147) and ART-naïve patients (n=23) and followed up for 9 months. Generalized least squares random-effects modeling was applied to explain changes in total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein, TC/HDL ratio, myeloperoxidase, highly sensitive C-reactive protein, and Framingham scores over the 9-month period. Independent variables included age, sex, monthly earning, body mass index, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure, duration of HIV diagnosis, duration of ART, viral load, and CD4 count. In ART-experienced patients, there was a substantial decrease in TC over time, ART-negative patients showed a significant increase in TC and HDL over time, and the increase in TC was associated with high viral load and low duration of HIV diagnosis, while increase in HDL was associated with young age, low body mass index, and low SBP. Framingham risk scores increased with time in ART-positive patients, and the change was positively correlated with age, sex, high SBP, and low HDL. There was no association between calculated CHD risk (TC/HDL ratio or Framingham score) and changes in levels of inflammatory markers (myeloperoxidase and highly sensitive C-reactive protein) in any of the patient groups. In conclusion, ART-experienced HIV-positive patients show changes in lipid values over time that makes it necessary to include lipid monitoring in order to reduce any risk of long-term CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danai Tavonga Zhou
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo
| | - Olav Oektedalen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Babill Stray-Pedersen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University in Oslo and Womens Clinic, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Abstract
PURPOSE The Hlabisa pregnancy cohort was established to evaluate the effectiveness of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) guideline revisions. The objectives of the Hlabisa pregnancy cohort are to: (1) provide cohort-level information on maternal health up to 6 weeks postpartum in a high HIV prevalence setting; and to (2) evaluate aspects of PMTCT care that have policy relevance. PARTICIPANTS The pregnancy cohort is located in primary health clinics in the Hlabisa subdistrict of rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Baseline data collection between 2010 and 2014 has been completed with the enrolment of 25 608 pregnancies; age ranged from 15-49 years. Pregnant women were assessed during routine antenatal visits: first visit, follow-up 1 week later, 32 weeks (HIV test), infant delivery and 6 weeks postpartum. Demographic, pregnancy, clinical, laboratory and HIV data were collected through Department of Health interviews, laboratory tests and routine data linkage. Treatment data for HIV-infected pregnant women were linked to the Africa Centre Hlabisa HIV Treatment and Care Programme for detailed antiretroviral therapy (ART) history and laboratory tests. FINDINGS TO DATE The proportion of women initiated on ART post-2013 were higher (n=437; 100%) than pre-2013 (n=768; 84.2%). The proportion of women in care at 6 weeks (73.8%) was also higher post-2013 relative to earlier years (58.5%). The majority of HIV-infected pregnant women were either on lifelong ART or ART prophylaxis; pre-2013, ∼ 9.6% of women were not on any ART. Pregnancy viral load monitoring was inadequate. FUTURE PLANS This cohort will be used to: (1) determine HIV acquisition risk during pregnancy and postpartum; (2) determine the effect of HIV and ART on birth outcomes; (3) examine the effect of pregnancy on virological response to ART; and (4) characterise the effect of sequential pregnancies on access to clinical care, response to prolonged ART and birth outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terusha Chetty
- Wellcome Trust Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Claire Thorne
- UCL Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Frank Tanser
- Wellcome Trust Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Wellcome Trust Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Institute of Public Health, Medical School, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Coutsoudis
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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21
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A meta-analysis assessing all-cause mortality in HIV-exposed uninfected compared with HIV-unexposed uninfected infants and children. AIDS 2016; 30:2351-60. [PMID: 27456985 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Conduct a meta-analysis examining differential all-cause mortality rates between HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) infants and children as compared with their HIV-unexposed uninfected (HUU) counterparts. DESIGN Meta-analysis summarizing the difference in mortality between HEU and HUU infants and children. Reviewed studies comparing children in the two groups for all-cause mortality, in any setting, from 1994 to 2016 from six databases. METHODS Meta-analyses were done estimating overall mortality comparing the two groups, stratified by duration of follow-up time from birth (0-12, 12-24 and >24 months) and by year enrollment ended in each study: less than 2002 compared with at least 2002, when single-dose nevirapine for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) commenced in low-income and middle-income countries. RESULTS Included 22 studies, for a total of 29 212 study participants [n = 8840 (30.3%) HEU; n = 20 372 (37.7%) HUU]. Random effects models showed HEU had a more than 70% increased risk of mortality vs. HUU. Stratifying by age showed that HEU vs. HUU had a significant 60-70% increased risk of death at every age strata. There was a significant 70% increase in the risk of mortality between groups before the implementation of PMTCT, which remained after 2002 [risk ratio: 1.46; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14-1.87], when the availability of PMTCT services was widespread, suggesting that prenatal antiretroviral therapy, and healthier mothers, does not fully eliminate this increased risk in mortality. CONCLUSION We show a consistent increase risk of mortality for HEU vs. HUU infants and children. Longitudinal research is needed to elucidate underlying mechanisms, such as maternal and infant health status and breast feeding practices, which may help explain these differences in mortality.
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le Roux SM, Abrams EJ, Nguyen K, Myer L. Clinical outcomes of HIV-exposed, HIV-uninfected children in sub-Saharan Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2016; 21:829-45. [PMID: 27125333 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV-exposed but HIV-uninfected (HEU) children are widely considered at increased risk of mortality and morbidity. Recent advances in prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) strategies, incorporating life-long universal maternal antiretroviral therapy (ART, "Option B+") with extended breastfeeding, may improve HEU child health substantially. We critically reviewed reports of mortality/morbidity among HEU and HIV-unexposed (HU) children in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We searched Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Academic Search Premier, Global Health & Psychosocial Instruments databases, conference abstracts, and reference lists for longitudinal studies from sub-Saharan Africa reporting mortality and clinical morbidity among HIV-uninfected children aged ≤10 years, by maternal HIV status. Studies were appraised by Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and ACROBAT-NRSI. Due to substantial heterogeneity of study designs, populations and results (I(2) = 75%), data were not synthesised. RESULTS We included 37 reports (28 studies, 11 164 HEU children); methodological and reporting quality were variable. Most reports came from settings without universal access to maternal ART (n = 35). Results were conflicting, with some studies indicating increased risk of mortality, hospitalisation and/or under-nutrition among HEU children, while others found no evidence of increased risk. In subanalyses, improved maternal health, ART use and breastfeeding were strongly protective for all outcomes. Only 39% (11/28) of studies adjusted for major confounders. Reports from settings using universal maternal ART with breastfeeding (n = 2) found no differences in growth or development but did not report mortality or infectious morbidity. CONCLUSIONS The existing literature provides little insight into HEU child health under recently adopted PMTCT strategies. There is a need for robust comparative data on HEU and HIV-unexposed child health outcomes under Option B+; optimising breastfeeding practices and increasing maternal use of ART should be urgent public health priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanzi M le Roux
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Centre for Infectious Diseases & Epidemiology Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kelly Nguyen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Epidemiology Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Centre for Infectious Diseases & Epidemiology Research, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Geldsetzer P, Yapa HMN, Vaikath M, Ogbuoji O, Fox MP, Essajee SM, Negussie EK, Bärnighausen T. A systematic review of interventions to improve postpartum retention of women in PMTCT and ART care. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20679. [PMID: 27118443 PMCID: PMC4846797 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The World Health Organization recommends lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV. Effective transitioning from maternal and child health to ART services, and long-term retention in ART care postpartum is crucial to the successful implementation of lifelong ART for pregnant women. This systematic review aims to determine which interventions improve (1) retention within prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) programmes after birth, (2) transitioning from PMTCT to general ART programmes in the postpartum period, and (3) retention of postpartum women in general ART programmes. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, the regional World Health Organization databases and conference abstracts for data published between 2002 and 2015. The quality of all included studies was assessed using the GRADE criteria. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION After screening 8324 records, we identified ten studies for inclusion in this review, all of which were from sub-Saharan Africa except for one from the United Kingdom. Two randomized trials found that phone calls and/or text messages improved early (six to ten weeks) postpartum retention in PMTCT. One cluster-randomized trial and three cohort studies found an inconsistent impact of different levels of integration between antenatal care/PMTCT and ART care on postpartum retention. The inconsistent results of the four identified studies on care integration are likely due to low study quality, and heterogeneity in intervention design and outcome measures. Several randomized trials on postpartum retention in HIV care are currently under way. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the evidence base for interventions to improve postpartum retention in HIV care is weak. Nevertheless, there is some evidence that phone-based interventions can improve retention in PMTCT in the first one to three months postpartum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Geldsetzer
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA;
| | - H Manisha N Yapa
- Africa Centre for Population Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Mtubatuba, South Africa
| | - Maria Vaikath
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Osondu Ogbuoji
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew P Fox
- Center for Global Health & Development, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Till Bärnighausen
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Africa Centre for Population Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Mtubatuba, South Africa
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Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV Infection and Its Determinants among Exposed Infants on Care and Follow-Up in Dire Dawa City, Eastern Ethiopia. AIDS Res Treat 2016; 2016:3262746. [PMID: 26989507 PMCID: PMC4771871 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3262746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the scale-up for prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services, rates of HIV infection among exposed infants have significantly declined. However, current achievements fell short of achieving the target sets. We investigated mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV infection and its determinants among HIV-exposed infants on care at Dilchora Referral Hospital in Dire Dawa City Administration. A retrospective institutional cohort study was conducted by reviewing follow-up records of HIV-exposed infants who were enrolled into care. Infants' HIV serostatus was the outcome measure of the study. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were employed to identify significant determinants. Of the 382 HIV-exposed infants enrolled into care, 60 (15.7%) became HIV positive. Rural residence (AOR: 3.29; 95% CI: 1.40, 7.22), home delivery (AOR: 3.35; 95% CI: 1.58, 8.38), infant not receiving ARV prophylaxis at birth (AOR: 5.83; 95% CI: 2.84, 11.94), mixed feeding practices (AOR: 42.21; 95% CI: 8.31, 214.38), and mother-child pairs neither receiving ARV (AOR: 4.42; 95% CI: 2.01, 9.82) were significant independent determinants of MTCT of HIV infection. Our findings suggest additional efforts to intensify scale-up of PMTCT services in rural setting and improve institutional delivery and postnatal care for HIV positive mothers and proper follow-up for HIV-exposed infants.
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Rawizza HE, Chang CA, Chaplin B, Ahmed IA, Meloni ST, Oyebode T, Banigbe B, Sagay AS, Adewole IF, Okonkwo P, Kanki PJ. Loss to Follow-Up within the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission Care Cascade in a Large ART Program in Nigeria. Curr HIV Res 2016; 13:201-9. [PMID: 25986371 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x1303150506183256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2013 WHO guidelines incorporated simplified and more effective antiretroviral regimens for the purposes of preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV. With ideal implementation of these recommendations, perinatal HIV transmission could be reduced to less than 2%. However, loss to follow-up (LTFU) has the potential to erode the success of programs and a number of studies report high rates of LTFU within the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) care cascade. We evaluated the timing and magnitude of LTFU in a large programmatic PMTCT cohort in Nigeria in order to focus future efforts to reduce loss in this high burden setting. METHODS From 2004-2014, the APIN/Harvard PEPFAR program supported antenatal HIV screening for nearly one million pregnant women and provided PMTCT care to over 30,000 women. The care cascade for women enrolling in the PMTCT program includes antenatal, delivery, and infant follow-up services through 12-18 months of life. In this retrospective cohort analysis, we examined data collected between 2004-2014 from 31 clinical sites in Nigeria and assessed the numbers of mothers and infants enrolled and LTFU at various points along the care cascade. RESULTS Among 31,504 women (median age 30, IQR: 27-34) entering PMTCT care during the antenatal period, 20,679 (66%) completed the entire cascade of services including antenatal, delivery, and at least one infant follow-up visit. The median gestational age at presentation for antenatal care services was 23 weeks (IQR: 17-29). The median infant age at last follow-up visit was 12 months (IQR: 5-18). The greatest loss in the PMTCT care cascade occurred prior to delivery care (21%), with a further 16% lost prior to first infant visit. Of the 38,223 women who entered at any point along the PMTCT cascade, an HIV DNA PCR was available for 20,202 (53%) of their infants. Among infants for whom DNA PCR results were available, the rate of HIV transmission for infants whose mothers received any antenatal and/or delivery care was 2.8% versus 20.0% if their mother received none. CONCLUSION In this large cohort analysis, the proportion of women LTFU in the PMTCT care cascade was lower than that reported in previous cohort analyses. Nevertheless, this proportion remains unacceptably high and inhibits the program from maximally achieving the goals of PMTCT care. We also provide the largest analysis to date on rates of perinatal HIV transmission, with low rates among women receiving NNRTI- or PI-based regimens, approaching that reported in clinical trials. However, among mothers who received any antenatal care, infant outcomes were unknown for 48%, and women presented later in pregnancy than that recommended by current guidelines. Implementation research to evaluate ways to improve integration of services, particularly transitions from antenatal to delivery and pediatric care, are critically needed to reduce LTFU within PMTCT programs and achieve the ultimate goal of eliminating pediatric HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly E Rawizza
- Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, USA; 2Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, USA.
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Tracing defaulters in HIV prevention of mother-to-child transmission programmes through community health workers: results from a rural setting in Zimbabwe. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20022. [PMID: 26462714 PMCID: PMC4604210 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.1.20022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction High retention in care is paramount to reduce vertical human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes but remains low in many sub-Saharan African countries. We aimed to assess the effects of community health worker–based defaulter tracing (CHW-DT) on retention in care and mother-to-child HIV transmission, an innovative approach that has not been evaluated to date. Methods We analyzed patient records of 1878 HIV-positive pregnant women and their newborns in a rural PMTCT programme in the Tsholotsho district of Zimbabwe between 2010 and 2013 in a retrospective cohort study. Using binomial regression, we compared vertical HIV transmission rates at six weeks post-partum, and retention rates during the perinatal PMTCT period (at delivery, nevirapine [NVP] initiation at three days post-partum, cotrimoxazole (CTX) initiation at six weeks post-partum, and HIV testing at six weeks post-partum) before and after the introduction of CHW-DT in the project. Results Median maternal age was 27 years (inter-quartile range [IQR] 23 to 32) and median CD4 count was 394 cells/µL3 (IQR 257 to 563). The covariate-adjusted rate ratio (aRR) for perinatal HIV transmission was 0.72 (95% confidence intervals [95% CI] 0.27 to 1.96, p=0.504), comparing patient outcomes after and before the intervention. Among fully retained patients, 11 (1.9%) newborns tested HIV positive. ARRs for retention in care were 1.01 (95% CI 0.96 to 1.06, p=0.730) at delivery; 1.35 (95% CI 1.28 to 1.42, p<0.001) at NVP initiation; 1.78 (95% CI 1.58 to 2.01, p<0.001) at CTX initiation; and 2.54 (95% CI 2.20 to 2.93, p<0.001) at infant HIV testing. Cumulative retention after and before the intervention was 496 (85.7%) and 1083 (87.3%) until delivery; 480 (82.9%) and 1005 (81.0%) until NVP initiation; 303 (52.3%) and 517 (41.7%) until CTX initiation; 272 (47.0%) and 427 (34.4%) until infant HIV testing; and 172 (29.7%) and 405 (32.6%) until HIV test result collection. Conclusions The CHW-DT intervention did not reduce perinatal HIV transmission significantly. Retention improved moderately during the post-natal period, but cumulative retention decreased rapidly even after the intervention. We showed that transmission in resource-limited settings can be as low as in resource-rich countries if patients are fully retained in care. This requires structural changes to the regular PMTCT services, in which community health workers can, at best, play a complementary role.
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Sidze LK, Faye A, Tetang SN, Penda I, Guemkam G, Ateba FN, Ndongo JA, Nguefack F, Texier G, Tchendjou P, Kfutwah A, Warszawski J, Tejiokem MC. Different factors associated with loss to follow-up of infants born to HIV-infected or uninfected mothers: observations from the ANRS 12140-PEDIACAM study in Cameroon. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:228. [PMID: 25886161 PMCID: PMC4358721 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1555-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Loss to follow-up (LTFU) is a cause of potential bias in clinical studies. Differing LTFU between study groups may affect internal validity and generalizability of the results. Understanding reasons for LTFU could help improve follow-up in clinical studies and thereby contribute to goals for prevention, treatment, or research being achieved. We explored factors associated with LTFU of mother-child pairs after inclusion in the ANRS 12140-Pediacam study. Methods From November 2007 to October 2010, 4104 infants including 2053 born to HIV-infected mothers and 2051 born to HIV-uninfected mothers matched individually on gender and study site were enrolled during the first week of life in three referral hospitals in Cameroon and scheduled for visits at 6, 10 and 14 weeks of age. Visits were designated 1, 2 and 3, in chronological order, irrespective of the child’s age at the time of the visit. Mother-child pairs were considered lost to follow-up if they never returned for a clinical visit within the first six months after inclusion. Uni- and multivariable logistic regression were adjusted on matching variables to identify factors associated with LTFU according to maternal HIV status. Results LTFU among HIV-unexposed infants was four times higher than among HIV-exposed infants (36.7% vs 9.8%, p < 0.001). Emergency caesarean section (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) = 2.46 95% Confidence Interval (CI) [1.47-4.13]), young maternal age (aOR = 2.29, 95% CI [1.18-4.46]), and absence of antiretroviral treatment for prophylaxis (aOR = 3.45, 95% CI [2.30-5.19]) were independently associated with LTFU among HIV-exposed infants. Factors associated with LTFU among HIV-unexposed infants included young maternal age (aOR = 1.96, 95% CI [1.36-2.81]), low maternal education level (aOR = 2.77, 95% CI [1.95-3.95]) and housewife/unemployed mothers (aOR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.16-2.11]). Conclusion Failure to return for at least one scheduled clinical visit is a problem especially among HIV-unexposed infants included in studies involving HIV-exposed infants. Factors associated with this type of LTFU included maternal characteristics, socio-economic status, quality of antenatal care and obstetrical context of delivery. Enhanced counselling in antenatal and intrapartum services is required for mothers at high risk of failure to return for follow-up visits. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1555-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Kamgue Sidze
- Service d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Membre du Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun. .,ISPED, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux II, France.
| | - Albert Faye
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Pédiatrie Générale, Hôpital Robert Debré, Paris, France. .,Université Paris 7 Denis Diderot, Paris Sorbonne Cité, Paris, France.
| | | | - Ida Penda
- Hôpital de Jour, Hôpital Laquintinie, Douala, Cameroun. .,Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Douala, Douala, Cameroun.
| | - Georgette Guemkam
- Centre Mère et Enfant de la Fondation Chantal Biya, Yaoundé, Cameroun.
| | | | | | - Félicité Nguefack
- Centre Mère et Enfant de la Fondation Chantal Biya, Yaoundé, Cameroun. .,Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences Biomédicales, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroun.
| | - Gaëtan Texier
- Service d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Membre du Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun. .,SESSTIM (UMR 912), Université Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France.
| | - Patrice Tchendjou
- Service d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Membre du Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun. .,ISPED, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux II, France.
| | - Anfumbom Kfutwah
- Service de Virologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Membre du Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun.
| | - Josiane Warszawski
- Equipe 4 (VIH et IST) - INSERM U1018 (CESP), Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France. .,Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France. .,Université de Paris Sud 11, Paris, France.
| | - Mathurin Cyrille Tejiokem
- Service d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Membre du Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun. .,Equipe 4 (VIH et IST) - INSERM U1018 (CESP), Le Kremlin Bicêtre, Paris, France.
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Psaros C, Remmert JE, Bangsberg DR, Safren SA, Smit JA. Adherence to HIV care after pregnancy among women in sub-Saharan Africa: falling off the cliff of the treatment cascade. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2015; 12:1-5. [PMID: 25620530 PMCID: PMC4370783 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-014-0252-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Increased access to testing and treatment means HIV can be managed as a chronic illness, though successful management requires continued engagement with the health care system. Most of the global HIV burden is in sub-Saharan Africa where rates of new infections are consistently higher in women versus men. Pregnancy is often the point at which an HIV diagnosis is made. While preventing mother to child transmission (PMTCT) interventions significantly reduce the rate of vertical transmission of HIV, women must administer ARVs to their infants, adhere to breastfeeding recommendations, and test their infants for HIV after childbirth. Some women will be expected to remain on the ARVs initiated during pregnancy, while others are expected to engage in routine testing so treatment can be reinitiated when appropriate. The postpartum period presents many barriers to sustained treatment adherence and engagement in care. While some studies have examined adherence to postpartum PMTCT guidelines, few have focused on continued engagement in care by the mother, and very few examine adherence beyond the 6-week postpartum visit. Here, we attempt to identify gaps in the research literature and make recommendations on how to address barriers to ongoing postpartum HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Psaros
- Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, 7th Floor, Boston, MA, 02140, USA,
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29
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Cluster randomized trial on the effect of mother support groups on retention-in-care and PMTCT outcomes in Zimbabwe: study design, challenges, and national relevance. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2014; 67 Suppl 2:S145-9. [PMID: 25310121 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) elimination goals are hampered by low rates of retention and antiretroviral treatment adherence. The Eliminating Pediatric AIDS in Zimbabwe (EPAZ) project is assessing whether mother support groups (MSGs) increase rates of retention-in-care of HIV-positive mothers and their exposed infants, increase male participation, and improve other maternal and infant health outcomes. EPAZ is a cluster randomized study involving 30 rural facilities in 2 health districts in Mutare province in eastern Zimbabwe. Facilities were randomly assigned to either the standard-of-care or intervention arms. We established MSGs for HIV-positive mothers at the 15 health facilities in the intervention arm. MSGs met every 2 weeks and were led by an HIV-positive mother who was appointed as MSG coordinator (MSG-C). MSG-Cs contacted nonattending patient-members of support groups by cell phone. If members still do not attend, MSG-Cs inform a health worker who initiates further outreach actions that are standard within the health system. At least 10 HIV-positive mothers are enrolled per facility. Enrollment started in July 2014. The primary outcome measure is retention-in-care of HIV-exposed infants at 12 months of age. Secondary outcome measures are: retention-in-care of HIV-positive mothers at 12 months postpartum, male participation, and other maternal and child health indicators. The study relies on routine health system data supplemented by additional data using tools created for the study. If shown to improve PMTCT retention outcomes, facility-based MSGs have the potential to be scaled up throughout the Zimbabwe National PMTCT program and could be considered in other country programs.
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Ditekemena J, Matendo R, Colebunders R, Koole O, Bielen G, Nkuna M, Engmann C, Tshefu A, Ryder R. Health Outcomes of Infants in a PMTCT Program in Kinshasa. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2014; 14:449-54. [PMID: 24639467 DOI: 10.1177/2325957413516495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective follow-up of mother-infant pairs is critical for ensuring the success of preventing mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programs. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with health outcomes of exposed infants in a PMTCT program in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Data were collected from January 2005 through December 2008 in 2 maternities in Kinshasa, DRC. The exposed infant's health status was used as outcome. Multiple logistic regressions were used to identify the determinants of infant outcomes. A total of 309 mother-infant pairs were included in this study. Younger maternal age, breast-feeding but weaning before the age of 6 months, and HIV testing of the child and a mother who is not sick were associated with better infant health outcome. The follow-up of mother-infant pairs in PMTCT programs remains critical and challenging. There is a need for innovative and efficient strategies to improve retention of mother-infant pairs in PMTCT programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Ditekemena
- Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Richard Matendo
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | | | - Olivier Koole
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gabrielle Bielen
- Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Michel Nkuna
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Cyril Engmann
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Antoinette Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
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Bisio F, Masini G, Blasi Vacca E, Calzi A, Cardinale F, Bruzzone B, Bruzzi P, Viscoli C. Effectiveness of a project to prevent HIV vertical transmission in the Republic of Congo. J Antimicrob Chemother 2013; 68:1862-71. [PMID: 23587655 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of a prevention programme against the vertical transmission of HIV in a resource-limited setting and to investigate variables associated with compliance. PATIENTS AND METHODS The Kento-Mwana project (2005-2008) provided counselling, serological and biomolecular testing and prophylaxis/therapy to HIV-positive pregnant women and their children attending four antenatal clinics in Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo. Expected and actual rates of vertical transmission of HIV were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed in order to identify variables associated with non-compliance. RESULTS The observed transmission rate in the group who completed follow-up was 5/290 (1.7%, 95% CI 0.6%-4.1%). The overall estimated transmission rate in the target population, computed taking into account the expected vertical transmission of HIV among drop-outs, was 67-115/638 (10.5%-18.0%). A comparison between this rate and the expected transmission rate in the absence of intervention (25%-40%) showed that the programme was able to prevent approximately 50% of vertical transmissions. Older age (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.16-0.66, P = 0.002), telephone availability (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24-0.72, P = 0.002) and occupation (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.29-1.10, P = 0.092) were associated with better compliance. CONCLUSIONS Despite the vast majority of women accepting counselling and testing, many of them refused prophylaxis or dropped out, thus reducing the effectiveness of the intervention from an ideal 2% to a still important but less impressive median transmission rate of 15% (range 10.5%-18%). Promoting participation and compliance, rather than increasing the potency of antiretroviral regimens, is crucial for preventing the vertical transmission of HIV in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Bisio
- Infectious Diseases Unit, University of Genoa and IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Largo R. Benzi, 10, 16132 Genova, Italy
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Sawe F, Lockman S. To B or not to B? That is the question, for global mother-to-child HIV-1 transmission prevention programs. Clin Infect Dis 2012. [PMID: 23204036 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cis862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Recent advances in pharmacovigilance of antiretroviral therapy in HIV-infected and exposed children. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2012; 7:305-16. [PMID: 22678488 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0b013e328354da1d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has greatly improved the survival of HIV-infected children. However, ART is associated with immediate and long-term adverse events. Pharmacovigilance systems, although imperfect, have been developed in many high-income countries (HICs), but coverage in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is poor and uneven. This review covers the recent advances in the understanding of adverse events following perinatal ART exposure, including surveillance from birth cohorts; we also describe the adverse events of antiretroviral drugs among HIV-infected children, focussing particularly on those relevant to LMICs, where more than 90% of HIV-infected children live. RECENT FINDINGS ART is largely safe in both HIV-infected and HIV-exposed uninfected children, in whom no significant increase in birth defects has been noted. Among HIV-infected children, toxicity to some drugs may be less frequent than in adults, possibly related to immature immune systems in younger children. As per WHO guidelines, many countries are moving from stavudine-based to zidovudine-based or abacavir-based fixed-dose combination (with nevirapine/lamivudine) paediatric mini-pills. However, reassuring data are emerging about short-term stavudine use in LMICs, as this remains an important first-line regimen for young children, as well as an alternative to zidovudine for anaemic children. Zidovudine appears to be well tolerated in young children living in nonmalarious areas, and, among African children, concerns about abacavir hypersensitivity have not been substantiated. SUMMARY Optimization of first-line ART regimens needs to take account of the toxicities in HIV-infected children, in particular as they will take ART much longer than adults and during the period of growth and development. The benefits of ART in pregnancy are clear, but long-term follow-up of ART-exposed infants in LMICs through integrated surveillance systems would be invaluable.
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Chetty T, Knight S, Giddy J, Crankshaw TL, Butler LM, Newell ML. A retrospective study of Human Immunodeficiency Virus transmission, mortality and loss to follow-up among infants in the first 18 months of life in a prevention of mother-to-child transmission programme in an urban hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. BMC Pediatr 2012; 12:146. [PMID: 22963527 PMCID: PMC3468389 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-12-146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Follow up of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-exposed infants is an important component of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programmes in order to ascertain infant outcomes post delivery. We determined HIV transmission, mortality and loss to follow-up (LTFU) of HIV-exposed infants attending a postnatal clinic in an urban hospital in Durban, South Africa. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of infants born to women in the PMTCT programme at McCord Hospital, where mothers paid a fee for service. Data were abstracted from patient records for live-born infants delivered between 1 May 2008 and 31 May 2009. The infants’ LTFU status and age was based on the date of the last visit. HIV transmission was calculated as a proportion of infants followed and tested at six weeks. Mortality rates were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier (K-M), with censoring on 15 January 2010, LTFU or death. Results Of 260 infants, 155 (59.6%) remained in care at McCord beyond 28 weeks: one died at < 28 days, three died between one to six months; 34 were LTFU within seven days, 60 were LTFU by six months. K-M mortality rate: 1.7% at six months (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.6% to 4.3%). Of 220 (83%) infants tested for HIV at six weeks, six (2.7%, 95% CI: 1.1% to 5.8%) were HIV-infected. In Cox regression analysis, late antenatal attendance (≥ 28 weeks gestation) relative to attending in the first trimester was a predictor for infant LTFU (adjusted hazards ratio = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.0 to 5.1; p = 0.044). Conclusion This urban PMTCT programme achieved low transmission rates at six weeks, but LTFU in the first six months limited our ability to examine HIV transmission up to 18 months and determinants of mortality. The LTFU of infants born to women who attended antenatal care at 28 weeks gestation or later emphasizes the need to identify late antenatal attendees for follow up care to educate and support them regarding the importance of follow up care for themselves and their infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terusha Chetty
- Africa Centre for Health and Population Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Mtubatuba, South Africa.
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Nelson BD, Kasper J, Hibberd PL, Thea DM, Herlihy JM. Developing a Career in Global Health: Considerations for Physicians-in-Training and Academic Mentors. J Grad Med Educ 2012; 4:301-6. [PMID: 23997872 PMCID: PMC3444181 DOI: 10.4300/jgme-d-11-00299.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global health is an expansive field, and global health careers are as diverse as the practice of medicine, with new paths being forged every year. Interest in global health among medical students, residents, and fellows has never been higher. As a result, a greater number of these physicians-in-training are participating in global health electives during their training. However, there is a gap between the level of trainee interest and the breadth and depth of educational opportunities that prepare them for a career in global health. OBJECTIVE Global health experiences can complement and enhance each step of traditional physician training, from medical school through residency and fellowship. Global health experiences can expose trainees to patients with diverse pathologies, improve physical exam skills by decreasing reliance on laboratory tests and imaging, enhance awareness of costs and resource allocation in resource-poor settings, and foster cultural sensitivity. The aim of this article is to describe issues faced by physicians-in-training and the faculty who mentor them as trainees pursue careers in global health. METHODS We conducted a narrative review that addresses opportunities and challenges, competing demands on learners' educational schedules, and the need for professional development for faculty mentors. CONCLUSIONS A widening gap between trainee interest and the available educational opportunities in global health may result in many medical students and residents participating in global health experiences without adequate preparation and mentorship. Without this essential support, global health training experiences may have detrimental consequences on both trainees and the communities hosting them. We discuss considerations at each training level, options for additional training, current career models in global health, and challenges and potential solutions during training and early career development.
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Kalembo FW, Zgambo M. Loss to Followup: A Major Challenge to Successful Implementation of Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV-1 Programs in Sub-Saharan Africa. ISRN AIDS 2012; 2012:589817. [PMID: 24052879 PMCID: PMC3767368 DOI: 10.5402/2012/589817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this paper was to explore how loss to followup (LFTU) has affected the successful implementation of prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV-1 (PMTCT) programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods. We conducted an electronic search from the following databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJs), and PyscINFO. Additional searches were made in WHO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, Google, and Google scholar websites for (1) peer-reviewed published research, (2) scientific and technical reports, and (3) papers presented on scientific conferences. Results. A total of 678 articles, published from 1990 to 2011, were retrieved. Only 44 articles met our inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The rates of LTFU of mother-child pairs ranged from 19% to 89.4 in the reviewed articles. Health facility factors, fear of HIV-1 test, stigma and discrimination, home deliveries and socioeconomic factors were identified as reasons for LTFU. Conclusion. There is a great loss of mother-child pairs to follow up in PMTCT programs in sub-Saharan Africa. There is need for more research studies to develop public health models of care that can help to improve followup of mother-child pairs in PMTCT programs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatch W. Kalembo
- Maternal and Child Health Department, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hang Kong Lu, Wuhan 430030, China
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Mzuzu University, Mzuzu, Malawi
| | - Maggie Zgambo
- University of North Carolina Project, Tidziwe Centre, Private Bag A-104, Lilongwe, Malawi
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Community strategies that improve care and retention along the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV cascade: a review. J Int AIDS Soc 2012; 15 Suppl 2:17394. [PMID: 22789647 PMCID: PMC3499877 DOI: 10.7448/ias.15.4.17394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction While biomedical innovations have made it possible to prevent the vertical transmission of HIV from mother to child, poor retention along the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) cascade continues to limit the impact of programmes, especially in low-resourced settings. In many of the regions with the highest burden of HIV and the greatest number of new paediatric cases, the uptake of facility-based care by pregnant women remains low. In such settings, the continuum of care for pregnant women and other women of reproductive age necessarily relies on the community. There is no recent review capturing effective, promising practices that are community-based and/or employ community-oriented groups to improve outcomes for the prevention of vertical transmission. This review summarizes those studies demonstrating that community-based and community-oriented interventions significantly influence retention and related outcomes along the PMTCT cascade. Methods Literature on retention within prevention of vertical transmission programmes available on PubMed, Psych Info and MEDLINE was searched and manuscripts reporting on key prevention of vertical transmission outcomes were identified. Short-listed studies that captured significant PMTCT outcome improvements resulting from community-based interventions or facility-based employment of community cohorts (e.g. lay counsellors, community volunteers, etc.) were selected for review. Results The initial search (using terms “HIV” and “PMTCT”) yielded 430 articles. These results were further narrowed using terminology relevant to community prevention of vertical transmission strategies addressing retention: “community,” “PMTCT cascade,” “retention,” “loss to follow up” and “early infant diagnosis.” Nine of these reported statistically significant improvements in key prevention of vertical transmission outcomes while meeting other review criteria. Short-listed articles reflect diverse study designs and a variety of effective interventions. Two interventions occurred exclusively in the community and four effectively employed community groups within facilities. The remaining three integrated community- and facility-based components. The outcomes of the included studies focus on knowledge (n=3) and retention along the PMTCT cascade (n=6). Conclusions This review captures an array of promising community-based and community-oriented interventions that demonstratively improve key prevention of vertical transmission outcomes. Though the strategies captured here show that such interventions work, the limited number of rigorous studies identified make it clear that expansion of community approaches and complementary reporting and related research are sorely needed.
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