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Liu L, Ruan Y, Chen S, Tang H, Liu J, Jiang Y, Pei H, Huang T, Lan G, Xie Y. Willingness to Use Long-Acting Injectable Cabotegravir and Associated Factors Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Guangxi, China. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:2795-2806. [PMID: 38849704 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02886-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Cabotegravir (CAB-LA), the first long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), has been approved for use in the USA and is not currently on the market in China. However, willingness to use CAB-LA and associated factors among men who have sex with men (MSM) have not yet been evaluated in China. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Guangxi, China, in 2022 recruiting 1,006 MSM. Their mean age was 30.2 years, 74.2% had college or above education, and 48.6% had a monthly income between 3,000 and 5,999 Chinese yuan (CNY). Most (73.4%) had previously heard of PrEP while few (8.3%) had ever used this type of preventative medication. Willingness to use CAB-LA was 79.8% and was positively associated with eight variables: younger age, being married to a woman, having a low monthly income, having six or more male partners in the past six months, having only regular male partners in the past month, having a high perceived risk of HIV infection, and history of using PrEP. Ten other variables were not significantly associated with willingness to use CAB-LA. Among 894 participants who were willing to use or did not definitely reject using CAB-LA, the main concerns about CAB-LA were its side effects (90.2%), efficacy (63.6%), and high cost (58.2%). Only 14.7% were willing to pay more than 1,200 CNY (~US$180) every two months to use CAB-LA. The preferred injection places were centers for disease control facilities, hospitals, and social organizations. Many (89.0%) said that they would recommend CAB-LA to their male sexual partners. We conclude that willingness to use CAB-LA was high among MSM in Guangxi. However, implementation of CAB-LA faces tough challenges due to its high cost and the low use of PrEP. Peer education may play a large role in the implementation of CAB-LA in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yuhua Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Beijing, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Shiwen Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Hongyang Tang
- Division of AIDS Control and Prevention, Nanning Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Junhui Liu
- Division of AIDS Control and Prevention, Nanning Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Hengyan Pei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Tengda Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Guanghua Lan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Major Infectious Disease Prevention Control and Biosafety Emergency Response, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
- Division of AIDS Control and Prevention, Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Yihong Xie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, 22, Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China.
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Khumalo PN, Mkhonta SS, Kindandi K, Matse S, Dlamini PB, Tukei V, Machekano R, Woelk G. Uptake of and intention to use oral pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among pregnant and post-natal women in Eswatini: a cross-sectional survey. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1253384. [PMID: 37965589 PMCID: PMC10641516 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1253384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In Eswatini, HIV incidence among women of childbearing age is 1.45%. Eswatini introduced oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention in 2016 and requires that all HIV-negative pregnant and post-natal women (PPW) visiting health care facilities be offered PrEP. Methods Between September-November 2021, we conducted a survey among HIV-negative PPW from 16 purposively selected healthcare facilities in the Hhohho and Shiselweni regions in Eswatini. We interviewed consenting HIV-negative PPW using a structured questionnaire to collect data on PrEP knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and practices, as well as information on partner HIV status and stigma. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine predictors of PrEP use and intention, adjusted for significant covariates. Results Of 1,484 PPW women approached, 1,149 consented and were interviewed, of whom 704 (61.3%) were post-partum and 445 (38.7%) pregnant. The median age was 25 years [Interquartile Range (IQR) = 21-30 years], with 533 (46.4%) 18-24 years old. Among the 1,149 women, 930 (80.7%) had ever heard about PrEP; 635 (55.3%) had knowledge about PrEP; 183 (15.9%) were currently using PrEP; and 285 (24.8%) had ever used PrEP. Increased odds of PrEP use were associated having HIV-positive male partner (aOR:7.76, 95%CI 3.53- 17.04); positive attitudes to PrEP (aOR:1.56, 95%CI: 1.02-2.40); and high self-efficacy (aOR:1.49, 95%CI:1.13-1.98). Among 864 women who never used PrEP, 569 (65.3%) intended to use PrEP in the future. Odds of intention to use PrEP were higher among women with low levels of education (aOR:2.23, 95% CI: 1.32-3.77); who ever heard about PrEP (aOR:1.69, 95%CI: 1.12-2.56); and had high self-efficacy (aOR:1.57, 95%CI: 1.31-1.87). Regarding stigma, among all women, 759 (66%) either agreed or strongly agreed that people would think they have HIV if they were to use PrEP; 658 (57.3%) reported they would be labelled as having multiple sex partners; 468 (40.7%) reported that their partner would think they are having risky sex with other people. Of 102 women who had discontinued PrEP, a majority stopped due to side effects 32 (35.2%). Conclusion Only about 50% of women had knowledge of PrEP, and PrEP uptake among PPW was low, though intention to use appeared high. More efforts to reduce stigma and promote PrEP use, including adequate information on side effects, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philisiwe Ntombenhle Khumalo
- Strategic Information and Evaluation/Clinical Services Delivery Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Siphiwesihle Sibonisiwe Mkhonta
- Strategic Information and Evaluation/Clinical Services Delivery Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Kikanda Kindandi
- Strategic Information and Evaluation/Clinical Services Delivery Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Sindy Matse
- Eswatini National AIDS Program, Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Phinda Brian Dlamini
- Strategic Information and Evaluation/Clinical Services Delivery Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Vincent Tukei
- Strategic Information and Evaluation/Clinical Services Delivery Department, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Rhoderick Machekano
- Research, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Godfrey Woelk
- Research, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States
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Sethi AK, Haldar P, Rai SK, Kant S, Rajan S, Kumar P, Mishra JK, Singh B. Low awareness but high acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among men who have sex with men and transgender persons in Delhi, India. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:763-776. [PMID: 37269245 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231174936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Background: HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is part of India's HIV prevention policy. We aimed to determine awareness of and willingness-to-use PrEP among men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) and transgender-persons (TG) in Delhi, India.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at five purposively selected targeted-intervention projects in Delhi. Participants included self-identified MSM/TG aged ≥18 years, with negative/unknown HIV serostatus. A structured interview schedule, developed using formative research, was used. Primary outcomes were awareness of, and willingness-to-use PrEP. Socio-demographic and behaviour variables included age, living situation, education, anal-sex, condom-use and experiences of physical-violence. Determinants of outcome were identified in univariable logistic regression; variables associated at p < .25 were included in multivariable regression models.Results: Of 400 (224 MSM, 176 TG), mean ± SD age 25.7 ± 7.2 years, 14.5% (95% CI 11.0, 18.0) were aware of PrEP, while 63.3% (95% CI: 58.6, 68.1) reported willingness-to-use PrEP. PrEP-awareness was independently associated with formal-education (adjusted odds ratio; AOR = 1.20), professional occupation (AOR = 5.45) and condom-use (AOR = 3.07). Willingness-to-use PrEP was higher if participants had recent anal-sex (AOR = 2.29), had used condoms during anal-sex (AOR = 2.09), or recently experienced physical-violence (AOR = 3.65).Conclusions: PrEP awareness was low, but most were willing to use PrEP, implying that communication is key to PrEP awareness and uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adhish Kumar Sethi
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Partha Haldar
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Rai
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shashi Kant
- Centre for Community Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Shobini Rajan
- National AIDS Control Organization, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Bhawani Singh
- National AIDS Control Organization, New Delhi, India
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Jenkins WD, Phillips G, Rodriguez CA, White M, Agosto S, Luckey GS. Behaviors associated with HIV transmission risk among rural sexual and gender minority and majority residents. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1452-1464. [PMID: 36803272 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2179592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Multiple rural states and communities experience elevated rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), often associated with diminished healthcare access and increased drug use. Though a substantial proportion of rural populations are sexual and gender minorities (SGM), little is known of this group regarding substance use, healthcare utilization, and HIV transmission behaviors. During May-July 2021, we surveyed 398 individuals across 22 rural Illinois counties. Participants included cisgender heterosexual males (CHm) and females (CHf) (n = 110); cisgender non-heterosexual males and females (C-MSM and C-WSW; n = 264); and transgender individuals (TG; n = 24). C-MSM participants were more likely to report daily-to-weekly alcohol and illicit drug use prescription medication misuse (versus CHf; aOR = 5.64 [2.37-13.41], 4.42 [1.56-12.53], and 29.13 [3.80-223.20], respectively), and C-MSM participants more frequently reported traveling to meet with romantic/sex partners. Further, more C-MSM and TG than C-WSW reported healthcare avoidance and denial due to their orientation/identity (p < 0.001 and p = 0.011, respectively); 47.6% of C-MSM and 58.3% of TG had not informed their provider about their orientation/identity; and only 8.6% of C-MSM reported ever receiving a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) recommendation. More work is needed to explore the substance use and sexual behaviors of rural SGM, as well as their healthcare interactions, to better target health and PrEP engagement campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiley D Jenkins
- Department of Population Science and Policy, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Gregory Phillips
- Department of Medical Social Services and Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Christofer A Rodriguez
- Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Stempel College, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Megan White
- Department of Population Science and Policy, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Stacy Agosto
- Behavioral Health, Shawnee Health Service, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Georgia S Luckey
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL, USA
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Moyo PL, Nunu WN. Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Accessibility, Knowledge, Barriers, and Facilitators Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231207481. [PMID: 37876122 PMCID: PMC10599119 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231207481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Great strides have been made globally toward ending HIV and AIDS as a threat by 2030, although the rate of new HIV infections among men who have sex with men remains very high. Due to their risk of getting HIV and AIDS, utilization of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can potentially reduce the risk of HIV transmission among this population. This study sought to analyze the accessibility, knowledge, and potential barriers and facilitators to assessing PrEP by men who have sex with men. The quantitative method was conducted on 65 men who have sex with men through questionnaires loaded on Kobo Collect. Chi-square test, odds ratios, and logistic regression were used to associate different demographic characteristics with knowledge and significance of barriers in PrEP access using STATA 15. A hotspot map of PrEP and locations was created using QGIS. About 84% of respondents accessed pills from friendly facilities. The remaining accessed them from public hospitals, namely Mpilo and United Bulawayo Hospitals. Over 90% of the respondents were found to be highly knowledgeable. Notably, barriers included lack of information, fear of side effects, pills not accessible, pill taste, odor and size, stigma, and lack of protection from other sexually transmitted infections. Facilitators were educated about PrEP, the existence of friendly health facilities, making pills available at all times, partner support, increased number of friendly health facilities and support groups. Maximizing the potential of PrEP as an efficient HIV-prevention intervention among this population requires ongoing efforts to remove barriers and promote facilitators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perez Livias Moyo
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science & Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Wilfred Njabulo Nunu
- Office of the Executive Dean, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science & Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
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Moyo PL, Nunu WN. Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Uptake and Acceptability Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Scoping Review of the Literature. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231201729. [PMID: 37776162 PMCID: PMC10541771 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231201729] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the global effort to end the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic as a global threat by 2030, the rate of new HIV infections worldwide remains unacceptably high among men who have sex with men, hence the need to use pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of HIV infection. This population has an increased risk of getting HIV; thus, it is imperative to assess the uptake and acceptability of PrEP. This study investigated the willingness, availability, accessibility, and knowledge and identified barriers and facilitators to using PrEP among this population. A scoping literature review search was conducted on research papers published in English and focused on men who have sex with men and their use of PrEP. These were independently screened and coded. Of about 1,202 literature sources, 55 were included in the study. Findings reported that the uptake and acceptability of PrEP were influenced by knowledge and perception of being high-risk. Generally, PrEP uptake and understanding were high in North America, Latin America, and Europe and low in Asia and Africa. Low uptake and acceptability have been largely attributed to fear of side effects, societal stigma, cost, and perception of not being at risk. Noted facilitators to PrEP use include education, availability of free pills, support groups, and friendly health care facilities. Health intervention programs to increase the use of PrEP must be backed by appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perez Livias Moyo
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science & Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Wilfred Njabulo Nunu
- Office of the Executive Dean, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science & Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
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Chen Y, Li Y, Fu L, Zhou X, Wu X, Wang B, Peng X, Sun Y, Liu Q, Lin YF, Fan Y, Jiang H, Meng X, Zou H. Knowledge of Human Mpox (Monkeypox) and Attitude towards Mpox Vaccination among Male Sex Workers in China: A Cross-Sectional Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020285. [PMID: 36851163 PMCID: PMC9966706 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Re-emerging human mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is spreading around the world. According to existing studies, the current mpox pandemic mainly affects men who have sex with men (MSM), including male sex workers (MSW). Our study aimed to assess mpox knowledge and attitude towards mpox vaccination among MSW in China. METHODS A web-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in August 2022. We collected participants' socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge with 15 knowledge items related to mpox. Modified Bloom's cut-off points of 80% (total score > 12) was used to indicate good knowledge. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess factors of mpox knowledge and attitude towards mpox vaccination. RESULTS A total of 154 MSW were recruited (age: median = 22, interquartile range, IQR = 12). Of the 154 MSW, 49.4% had good knowledge of mpox, and 63.0% were willing to be vaccinated against mpox. We found that good knowledge was associated with being single [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.46, 95% confident interval (CI) (1.22-4.87)], being unemployed [5.01, 1.21-20.70] and willingness to be vaccinated [2.51, 1.14-5.54]. Willingness to get vaccinated was related to age [1.06, 1.00-1.12], chronic diseases history [8.53, 1.01-71.68], and agreement with "priority for high-risk groups if mpox vaccine is in short supply" [2.57, 1.01-6.54]. CONCLUSIONS We found that MSW had suboptimal mpox knowledge and a high willingness to be vaccinated against mpox. MSW who are single and willing to be vaccinated may have good knowledge of mpox. These findings underscore the necessity of providing health education on mpox among MSW. When the mpox vaccine is in short supply, priority should be given to high-risk groups, such as MSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Chen
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yuwei Li
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Leiwen Fu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Xinyi Zhou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Xinsheng Wu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Bingyi Wang
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Xin Peng
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yinghui Sun
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yi-Fan Lin
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yinguang Fan
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hongbo Jiang
- School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaojun Meng
- Wuxi Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi 214023, China
- Correspondence: (X.M.); (H.Z.); Tel.: +86-755-23260106 (H.Z.)
| | - Huachun Zou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
- Correspondence: (X.M.); (H.Z.); Tel.: +86-755-23260106 (H.Z.)
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Wray TB, Chan PA, Klausner JD, Ward LM, Ocean EMS. Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men Who Are Not on Oral PrEP may be Less Interested in Available Injectable Products than in Oral PrEP: Examining Individual-Level Determinants of Interest and Barriers Across Products. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3794-3805. [PMID: 35583574 PMCID: PMC9912751 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03708-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Approval of the first injectable PrEP product (cabotegravir) provides an exciting addition to oral PrEP that could encourage those not currently on PrEP to use it. However, few studies have explored interest in injectable cabotegravir among those at increased risk who are not currently on PrEP. We conducted an online survey with 327 gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) with limited PrEP history to explore their interest and intentions to use oral and injectable PrEP (cabotegravir), and examine barriers and individual-level predictors of both product types. Results showed that 17% of participants who reported being uninterested/neutral about oral PrEP expressed interest in injectable PrEP. Slightly more racial/ethnic minority GBM who were uninterested/neutral for oral PrEP expressed interest in injectable PrEP than White GBM (23% vs. 14%). Determinants were similar across PrEP types. Findings can directly inform interventions encouraging use of both PrEP products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B Wray
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, 02912, Providence, RI, United States.
| | - Philip A Chan
- Department of Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lori M Ward
- Department of Population Health Science, John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Erik M S Ocean
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, 02912, Providence, RI, United States
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Gutierrez JI, Vlahov D, Dubov A, Altice FL. Preferences for Long-Acting and Alternative Modalities for PrEP among Military Men Who Have Sex with Men: Segmentation Results of an Adaptive Choice-Based Conjoint Analysis Study. J Urban Health 2022; 99:277-292. [PMID: 35318573 PMCID: PMC9033922 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-022-00615-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention within the U.S. military is low. Implementing preference-based alternative modalities of PrEP delivery, however, can be an innovative strategy to address the specific barriers to PrEP uptake among military MSM. We sought to identify population-based, segment-specific preferences for longer-acting and alternative PrEP delivery modalities to guide patient-centered strategies to optimize uptake within military-serving healthcare systems. HIV-negative military men who have sex with men (MSM) completed an anonymous, adaptive choice-based conjoint (ACBC) analysis survey consisting of five key attributes of interest (dosing method, provider type, visit location, lab work evaluation location, and dispensing venue). Relative importance and part-worth utility scores were generated using Hierarchical Bayes (HB) estimation, and cluster ensemble analysis grouped participants into "phenotype" segments by preference similarity. The randomized first-choice model was then used to examine changes in program interest rates among segments through market simulation. The 429 participants were segmented into five preference groups. The dosing method attribute was found to be the most important to nearly all segments. Simulations revealed that PrEP program interest among two segments with low interest levels increased when smartphone, civilian-based, and long-acting injectable PrEP options were involved. Findings also suggested a need for clinics to be responsive and sensitive to sexual practices, risk perception, and functional PrEP knowledge. Responsiveness to segment-specific preferences in the design of military PrEP programs and acting on the importance of clinical relationships within the context of PrEP engagement within a military setting may contribute to increasing PrEP uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose I Gutierrez
- Yale School of Nursing, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange, CT, 06477, USA.
- National Clinician Scholars Program, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St., San Francisco, CA, 94118, USA.
| | - David Vlahov
- Yale School of Nursing, 400 West Campus Drive, Orange, CT, 06477, USA
- Department of Epidemiology-Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Alex Dubov
- Loma Linda University, Griggs Hall 11065, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Department of Epidemiology-Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
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Daniels J, Peters RPH, Medina-Marino A, Bongo C, Stephenson R. A skills-based sero-status HIV disclosure intervention for sexual minority men in South Africa: A protocol for intervention adaptation and pilot randomized controlled trial (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e36845. [PMID: 35576574 PMCID: PMC9152729 DOI: 10.2196/36845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) living with HIV have low antiretroviral treatment adherence in South Africa due to limited skills in managing disclosure and prevention behaviors with sexual and romantic partners. As a result, there is a high HIV transmission risk within HIV-discordant partnerships, but an existing intervention may address these outcomes, if adapted effectively. Healthy Relationships (HR) is a behavioral intervention that was originally delivered in groups and in person over 5 sessions to develop coping skills for managing HIV-related stress and sexually risky situations, enhance decision-making skills for HIV disclosure to partners, and establish and maintain safer sex practices with partners. HR effectively improves prevention behaviors but has yet to be tailored to a non-US context. Objective We aim to adapt HR into a new culturally grounded intervention entitled Speaking Out & Allying Relationships for GBMSM and then assess its feasibility in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods The study will have 2 aims. For aim 1—adaptation—we will use a human-centered design approach. Initial intervention tailoring will involve integrating Undetectable=Untransmittable and pre-exposure prophylaxis education, developing intervention content for a videoconference format, and designing role-plays and movies for skill building based on preliminary data. Afterward, interviews and surveys will be administered to GBMSM to assess intervention preferences, and a focus group will be conducted with health care providers and information technology experts to assess the intervention’s design. Finally, a usability test will be performed to determine functionality and content understanding. Participants will be GBMSM living with HIV (n=15) who are in a relationship and health care providers and information technology (n=7) experts working in HIV care and programming with this population. For aim 2, we will examine the feasibility of the adapted intervention by using a pilot randomized control design. There will be 60 individuals per arm. Feasibility surveys and interviews will be conducted with the intervention arm, and behavioral and biomedical assessments for relationship and treatment adherence outcomes will be collected for both arms. All participants will be GBMSM living with HIV who are in a relationship with an HIV-negative or unknown status partner. Results Intervention adaptation began in August 2021. Initial tailoring and the refining of GBMSM intervention preferences were completed in December 2021. Usability and feasibility assessments are due to be completed by March 2022 and February 2024, respectively. Conclusions GBMSM need efficacious interventions that tackle partnership dynamics, HIV prevention, and treatment outcomes for antiretroviral treatment adherence and viral suppression in South Africa. Harnessing everyday technology use for social networking (eg, videoconferences), Undetectable=Untransmittable education, and pre-exposure prophylaxis to update an existing intervention for South African GBMSM has the potential to strengthen relationship communication about HIV treatment and prevention and, in turn, improve outcomes. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/36845
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Daniels
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Remco P H Peters
- Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andrew Medina-Marino
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, East London, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Cikizwa Bongo
- Foundation for Professional Development, East London, South Africa
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Thepthien BO, Srivanichakorn S, Udomsubpayakul U, Sein Win ZZK, Zaw AMM. HIV risk behavior and testing among MS M in Bangkok 2015-2019: a short report. AIDS Care 2021; 34:869-877. [PMID: 34749547 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.2001418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Thailand have high HIV prevalence. This analysis used three years of data from the Behavioral Surveillance Survey (BSS) to examine the behaviors and biomedical interventions among MSM in Bangkok. Percent MSM with an HIV or STI test in the past 12 months decreased from 50.8% to 29.8%, and 42.2% to 33.0%, respectively. The frequency of HIV/STI testing was higher among those who had university-level education, as well as among those who reported higher AIDS knowledge, and had utilized prevention services. Additionally, awareness of PrEP peaked in 2017 (74.1%). The study found an increasing trend of men who had sex without a condom the last time they had anal sex with a man, and/or with multiple partners. Nearly two-thirds of the sample were reached by HIV prevention interventions. One-third had correct AIDS knowledge. These findings suggest that, after an increase of sex behavior risk, a decrease in PrEP awareness, and unknown HIV status, HIV prevalence among MSM in Bangkok may have begun to increase again. Intensified prevention interventions are urgently needed to reduce HIV behavioral risk for MSM since that is a major driver of the HIV epidemic in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang-On Thepthien
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | | | - Umaporn Udomsubpayakul
- Section for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Zu Zu Kyaw Sein Win
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Aye Myat Myat Zaw
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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12
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Grov C, Westmoreland DA, D’Angelo AB, Pantalone DW. How Has HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Changed Sex? A Review of Research in a New Era of Bio-behavioral HIV Prevention. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2021; 58:891-913. [PMID: 34180743 PMCID: PMC9729849 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.1936440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2012, the U.S. FDA approved the first drug for use as HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is nearly 99% effective when taken as prescribed. Although the manifest function of PrEP is to prevent HIV infection in the event of exposure, the drug has also had a significant impact on various facets of sexuality. In this review, we focus on research that emerged in the near decade since PrEP's approval, with a specific focus on the ways in which different elements of sex and sexuality have been impacted by gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), cisgender women, and transgender individuals. We highlight evidence showing how PrEP has enhanced sexual self-esteem, improved sexual pleasure, reduced sexual anxiety, and has increased sexual agency for those taking it. For many, PrEP also serves as a gateway to improve routine health and increase sexual health-care utilization. Additionally, we review the question of whether PrEP is associated with increased sexual risk taking (i.e. risk compensation), and note that, although some data are mixed, PrEP is not intended as an intervention to reduce condomless anal sex or STIs: it aims to prevent HIV. Finally, our review highlights that, although the volume of research on PrEP among GBMSM is robust, it is underdeveloped for cisgender women and transgender populations and insufficient for inclusion in such a review for cisgender heterosexual men was. PrEP research with these populations is an important direction for future research. Finally, from 2012 to 2019, a single PrEP formulation and delivery method was FDA approved (oral emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate). As additional drug formulations (ie.g., emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) and delivery methods (e.g., microbiocides, vaginal ring, injectable) come to market, it will be important to examine how these, too, impact the spectrum of sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | | | - Alexa B. D’Angelo
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | - David W. Pantalone
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA
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Matson M, Nery-Hurwit M, Crosby S, Greene GJ, Macapagal K. Awareness and Knowledge of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents Assigned Male at Birth in the United States. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1701-1711. [PMID: 33982212 PMCID: PMC8919433 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01904-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents assigned male at birth are at increased risk for HIV infection. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill taken to prevent HIV, which the United States Food and Drug Administration approved for minors under age 18 years weighing at least 77.5 lb in 2018. A lack of awareness and knowledge of PrEP are barriers to uptake among adults and adolescents, but SGM adolescents' awareness and knowledge about PrEP remain underexplored and no studies have assessed SGM adolescents' informational needs. We collected data on 59 SGM adolescents' (ages 14-18 years) awareness, knowledge, and questions about PrEP in an online survey and six online focus groups. Although a majority of SGM adolescents (83.1%) were aware of PrEP before the study, many wanted more information about side effects and how to navigate potential barriers to PrEP initiation. Findings can inform public health efforts to promote PrEP knowledge and uptake among SGM adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Matson
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mara Nery-Hurwit
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shariell Crosby
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - George J Greene
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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14
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Gordián-Arroyo A, Garofalo R, Kuhns LM, Pearson C, Bruce J, Batey DS, Radix A, Belkind U, Hidalgo MA, Hirshfield S, Schrimshaw EW, Schnall R. Awareness, Willingness, and Perceived Efficacy of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis among Adolescent Sexual Minority Males. J Urban Health 2020; 97:749-757. [PMID: 32789625 PMCID: PMC7560632 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00447-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Despite the approval of PrEP for adolescents by the FDA in 2018, little is known about the awareness and attitudes about PrEP use among adolescent sexual minority males, who are at the greatest risk for HIV. We analyzed baseline data from the MyPEEPS Mobile study, a multi-site randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of a mobile behavioral HIV prevention intervention. A substantial proportion (68.2%) of study participants (ages 13-18) had previously heard about PrEP, and an overwhelming majority (90.8%) reported willingness to take PrEP, to prevent HIV. On the other hand, only about one third (34.6%) of participants indicated that taking a daily HIV pill would be "very" or "completely" effective in preventing HIV when having sex without a condom. These findings suggest that high awareness and willingness to use PrEP across various adolescent subgroups present opportunities for increased PrEP advocacy among this young age group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Josh Bruce
- Birmingham AIDS Outreach, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - D Scott Batey
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Uri Belkind
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marco A Hidalgo
- Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California/Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Department of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Eric W Schrimshaw
- University of Central Florida, College of Medicine, Orlando, FL, USA
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15
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Herder T, Agardh A, Björkman P, Månsson F. Interest in Taking HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Is Associated with Behavioral Risk Indicators and Self-Perceived HIV Risk Among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending HIV Testing Venues in Sweden. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2165-2177. [PMID: 32495243 PMCID: PMC7316853 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01740-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
This study explored factors associated with interest in taking PrEP among men who have sex with men (MSM) attending HIV testing venues in Sweden. Data from 658 HIV-negative respondents, surveyed by a questionnaire at six sites, were analyzed descriptively and by univariable and multivariable logistic regression. A total of 453 (68.8%) of the respondents expressed interest in taking PrEP. Reporting self-perceived risk of HIV acquisition as moderate or high, reporting ≥ 5 partners for condomless anal intercourse during the past year, and reporting hard drug use during the past year were independently associated with interest in taking PrEP. However, an aggregated variable of self-reported rectal gonorrhea, rectal chlamydia, or syphilis infection during the past year was not associated with interest in taking PrEP. Overall, Swedish MSM were well-informed regarding PrEP, and interest in taking PrEP was positively associated with sexual risk indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Herder
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Department of Clinical Sciences, Malmö, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28, Malmö, Sweden.
| | - Anette Agardh
- Division of Social Medicine and Global Health, Department of Clinical Sciences, Malmö, Lund University, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 214 28, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Per Björkman
- Clinical Infection Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Månsson
- Clinical Infection Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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16
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Kecojevic A, Basch CH, Garcia P. Readability analysis of online health information on preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Public Health 2020; 182:53-55. [PMID: 32171091 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES When considering PreExposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a HIV prevention method, many rely on information available online. Limited research has examined the quality, including readability, of PrEP information on the Internet. The current study evaluates the readability of PrEP information online employing six commonly used readability tests. STUDY DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study. METHODS Using the Google Chrome browser, a search for articles was conducted using two terms: "pre-exposure prophylaxis" and "Truvada." The URLs of the first 50 English language websites for each term were recorded to create the overall study sample of 100 unique websites. Using six established readability scales, we determined the readability scores for each examined website. Websites were stratified by .com, .org, and .gov URL extensions to compare readability metrics. RESULTS Mean Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) was 9.5 (SD = 2.2), mean Gunning Fog Index (GFI) was 11.1 (SD = 2.7), mean Coleman-Liau Index (CLI) was 11.3 (SD = 2.0), while mean Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) Grade Level was 12.1 (SD = 1.8). Using Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease (FRE), one article was found easy to read, while 23 were found of average difficulty to read. Mean New Dale-Chall (NDS) score was 7.3 (SD = 1.3), or grade 9-10. Mean reading levels were significantly different among the commercial, organization, and government sites, however, no category was at the recommended sixth-grade level. CONCLUSIONS PrEP information online surpasses the reading ability of most U.S. adults. Improving the readability of PrEP information online may help to increase uptake of PrEP among populations at risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kecojevic
- Department of Public Health, William Paterson University New Jersey, Wayne, NJ, USA.
| | - C H Basch
- Department of Public Health, William Paterson University New Jersey, Wayne, NJ, USA
| | - P Garcia
- Department of Public Health, William Paterson University New Jersey, Wayne, NJ, USA
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17
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Tan RKJ, Teo AKJ, Kaur N, Harrison-Quintana J, I-Cheng Chen M, Wong CS. Cost and anonymity as factors for the effective implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis: an observational study among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Singapore. Sex Health 2019; 15:533-541. [PMID: 30249316 DOI: 10.1071/sh18059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is currently offered by several public and private clinics at unsubsidised prices in Singapore, but to date, no information is available on the effect of these services. This study sought to assess the knowledge and uptake of, and willingness to use PrEP among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Singapore. METHODS Recruitment was conducted through Grindr®, a geosocial networking application for GBMSM. Results were quantitatively analysed through descriptive statistics and multivariate Poisson regression models, while open-ended responses were qualitatively coded and categorised. RESULTS Of the 1339 participants who responded, 1098 participants who indicated their knowledge and use of PrEP were included in the analytic sample. Overall, 15.0% (n=154) had taken PrEP, 66.2% (n=678) had heard of but not taken PrEP, while 18.8% (n=193) had never heard of PrEP. Of those who had ever taken PrEP, 59.6% (n=90) had obtained PrEP from overseas or other unofficial sources. Of those who had heard of but never taken PrEP, 73.3% (n=486) reported that they would consider taking PrEP. Those who had taken PrEP were older and had higher educational attainment. CONCLUSIONS The gap between the willingness to use PrEP and its uptake may be attributed to the cost of PrEP and issues of anonymity at healthcare settings in Singapore. National financing schemes are needed to expand access to PrEP if it is to make a meaningful effect to the Singapore HIV/AIDS response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayner Kay Jin Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, 117549 Singapore
| | - Alvin Kuo Jing Teo
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, 117549 Singapore
| | - Nashwinder Kaur
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442 Singapore
| | | | - Mark I-Cheng Chen
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, #10-01, 117549 Singapore
| | - Chen Seong Wong
- National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, 308442 Singapore
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Fearon E, Phillips A, Mtetwa S, Chabata ST, Mushati P, Cambiano V, Busza J, Napierala S, Hensen B, Baral S, Weir SS, Rice B, Cowan FM, Hargreaves JR. How Can Programs Better Support Female Sex Workers to Avoid HIV Infection in Zimbabwe? A Prevention Cascade Analysis. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 81:24-35. [PMID: 30964804 PMCID: PMC6467580 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND "HIV prevention cascades" have been proposed to support programs by identifying gaps in demand for, access to, and capability to adhere to HIV prevention tools, but there are few empirical examples to guide development. We apply a prevention cascade framework to examine prevention coverage and factors associated with condoms and/or PrEP adherence among female sex workers. SETTING Seven sites across Zimbabwe. METHODS Seven respondent-driven sampling surveys from the intervention sites of a pragmatic cluster-randomized trial in Zimbabwe in 2016 were analyzed, and 611/1439 women testing HIV-negative included. We operationalized key components of an HIV prevention cascade including demand, supply, and capability to adhere to 2 tools for HIV prevention: condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We used adjusted logistic regression to identify determinants of adherence to condoms and PrEP in turn, examining the effect of adherence to one tool on adherence to the other. RESULTS There were 343/611, 54.7%, women reporting adherence to condoms and/or PrEP, leaving almost half uncovered. Although women were aware that condoms prevented HIV and reported good access to them, only 45·5% reported full adherence to condom use. For PrEP, a new technology, there were gaps along all 3 domains of demand, supply, and adherence. Alcohol use decreased adherence to PrEP and condoms. Younger and newer entrants to sex work were less likely to take PrEP every day. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevention programming among female sex workers in Zimbabwe could consider increasing awareness of PrEP alongside supply, alcohol use interventions, and approaches to engaging younger women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Fearon
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Phillips
- Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sibongile Mtetwa
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sungai T. Chabata
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Phillis Mushati
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Valentina Cambiano
- Institute for Global Health, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sue Napierala
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, San Francisco, CA
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Baral
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sharon S. Weir
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC; and
| | - Brian Rice
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M. Cowan
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - James R. Hargreaves
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Laroche H, Lions C, Zaegel-Faucher O, Tamalet C, Poizot-Martin I. Unsupervised PrEP in routine practice: a new challenge? Int J STD AIDS 2019; 30:715-717. [PMID: 30975069 DOI: 10.1177/0956462419828872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the prevention of HIV infection with 300 mg daily tenofovir co-formulated with 200 mg emtricitabine is recommended as one prevention option for people who are at substantial risk of acquiring an HIV infection. We report the case of a 28-year-old man who has sex with men and who was referred to our unit for a primary HIV infection with positive p18, p24 and gp160 bands on Western blot analysis but with a low HIV plasma viral load. Although HIV misdiagnosis should always be considered in cases of atypical seroconversion pattern with a low viral burden, unsupervised PrEP should be systematically investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Laroche
- 1 Service d'Immuno-hématologie Clinique, Aix Marseille Univ, APHM Sainte-Marguerite, Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Lions
- 1 Service d'Immuno-hématologie Clinique, Aix Marseille Univ, APHM Sainte-Marguerite, Marseille, France
| | - Olivia Zaegel-Faucher
- 1 Service d'Immuno-hématologie Clinique, Aix Marseille Univ, APHM Sainte-Marguerite, Marseille, France
| | - Catherine Tamalet
- 2 IHU Méditerranée Infection, Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, APHM Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Poizot-Martin
- 1 Service d'Immuno-hématologie Clinique, Aix Marseille Univ, APHM Sainte-Marguerite, Marseille, France
- 3 Aix Marseille Univ, APHM, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Hôpital Sainte-Marguerite, Service d'Immuno-hématologie Clinique, Marseille, France
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20
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Biskupiak A, Smith S, Kushalnagar P. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Knowledge and Perceived Effectiveness to Prevent HIV Among Deaf Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Men. LGBT Health 2018; 5:469-476. [PMID: 30383466 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2018.0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: There have been recent advances to the adoption of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as an effective human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) preventive treatment among men who have sex with men, but PrEP services and resources are often not accessible to those who are deaf and use American Sign Language (ASL). This article investigates PrEP knowledge among deaf gay, bisexual, and queer (GBQ) men and the contribution of social support to their perceptions regarding the effectiveness of PrEP at preventing HIV. Methods: An online health survey in ASL and English included questions about sexual orientation, HIV testing, PrEP knowledge and perceived effectiveness at preventing HIV, coming out to healthcare providers, and social support. We gathered data from 121 deaf GBQ men recruited from diverse cities in the United States, with 87% self-identifying as gay. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationships between self-reported level of social support and perceived effectiveness of PrEP at preventing HIV after controlling for sociodemographic and health-related variables. Results: There was a significant relationship between meeting new lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) friends online and PrEP knowledge (χ2 = 14.93; p < 0.001). After controlling for sociodemographic and health-related variables, those who discussed LGBT-related issues online and/or on a social networking site regularly were threefold more likely to perceive PrEP as being effective at preventing HIV than those who did not engage in online discussions (odds ratio = 3.12; 95% confidence interval: 1.12-8.75). Conclusion: For deaf GBQ men, PrEP knowledge might be attained through meeting and making new LGBTQ friends online. Active engagement in online discussions about LGBT-related issues might enhance perceptions regarding the effectiveness of PrEP to prevent HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Biskupiak
- Deaf Health Communication and Quality of Life Center, Gallaudet University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Scott Smith
- National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York
| | - Poorna Kushalnagar
- Deaf Health Communication and Quality of Life Center, Gallaudet University, Washington, District of Columbia.,Department of Psychology, Gallaudet University, Washington, District of Columbia
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21
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Ajayi AI, Ismail KO, Adeniyi OV, Akpan W. Awareness and use of pre-exposure and postexposure prophylaxes among Nigerian university students: Findings from a cross-sectional survey. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e12226. [PMID: 30200145 PMCID: PMC6133481 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000012226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent advances in biomedical preventive strategies, young adults-especially adolescent girls- continue to be disproportionately at risk of acquiring HIV. To avert this trend, it is critical that access to HIV preventive strategies, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis be expanded, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where young adults are known to engage in risky sexual practices. This study examined awareness levels and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) among Nigerian university students.A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 800 students selected using stratified random sampling at 2 Nigerian universities. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis on 784 complete responses.The levels of awareness of PrEP and PEP were 18.9% and 25.4%, respectively. Ever tested for human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] (AOR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.04-2.42) and knowledge of partner's HIV status (AOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.25-2.79) were the significant determinants of awareness to PrEP. In contrast, only ever tested for HIV (AOR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.02-2.19), knowledge of partner's HIV status (AOR: 1.55; 95% CI: 1.07-2.24), ever used condoms (AOR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.04-2.62), and nude exchanges (AOR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.13-2.31) were independent determinants of awareness of PEP. Only a few students had seen (5.6%) or used (1.5%) any prophylaxes.The study findings indicate a low level of awareness and use of PrEP and PEP. To ensure no one is left behind in the goal of elimination of new HIV infections, intervention to expand access to these preventive strategies is needed in the study settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Idowu Ajayi
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Oladele Vincent Adeniyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Wilson Akpan
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
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