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Murungi T, Kunihira I, Oyella P, Mugerwa M, Gift P, Aceng MJ, Abolo L, Puleh SS. Knowledge and perceptions of religious leaders toward HIV prevention among young people in a resource-limited setting: A qualitative study. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3442966. [PMID: 38766076 PMCID: PMC11100868 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3442966/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background Currently, 410,000 new HIV infections among youth occur worldwide, which is a significant public health issue. Members of the clergy can be trustworthy allies in the reduction of HIV infections among the youth. However, little is known regarding their knowledge as well as the perceptions they hold towards HIV prevention among young people. Thus, we explored the knowledge and perceptions of religious leaders regarding HIV prevention among young people (15-24 years) in Lira district. Methods This was a cross-sectional qualitative study conducted among 20 religious leaders in March 2021 in Lira district. Religious leaders were sampled purposively and recruited from modern religions (beliefs influenced by Christianity or Islam) in Lira district. Guides for key informant interviews were utilized to gather information. Each interview was audio recorded, transcribed, and entered into NVivo version 12 software, and the data was then ready for analysis. The main themes were determined using thematic analysis. Results Although a few individuals had some misconceptions, the majority of participants had good knowledge about the transmission and prevention of HIV. Participants knew awareness creation, abstinence, and faithfulness in marriage as HIV prevention strategies and held positive perceptions. Perceived barriers to HIV prevention involvement were lack of knowledge and training, and inadequate resources whereas motivating factors were; being respected, and trusted, and having easy access to young people. Conclusion In conclusion, religious leaders show limited HIV prevention knowledge due to religious beliefs, but understand the importance of measures like abstinence. Despite challenges, their involvement is crucial. Addressing knowledge gaps and providing support is vital. Future efforts should emphasize both behavioral measures and interventions like condom use, Post Exposure Prophylaxis, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.
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Heath G, Kaur K, Farrow C, Ross JDC, Clarke R. Barriers to engagement with testing for sexually transmitted infections within a UK-based young adult Black Caribbean community: a qualitative study. Sex Health 2024; 21:SH23166. [PMID: 38432685 DOI: 10.1071/sh23166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Black Caribbean population have a disproportionately high burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared with other ethnic groups. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to engagement with STI testing within a UK-based young adult Black Caribbean community. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 14 young adults from the Black Caribbean community and six sexual healthcare professionals. Data were analysed thematically. A focus group of five young adults was conducted to refine themes. RESULTS Data analysis generated three themes: (1) culturally embedded stigma; (2) historically embedded mistrust; and (3) lack of knowledge. Perceived as 'dirty', particularly for females, infection with STIs was stigmatised by religious conceptions of 'purity' and shame. This presented challenges in terms of cultural acceptability of talking about STI testing with partners, friends, and family. Legacies of colonialism, medical racism and malpractice compromised young people's trust in medical intervention and confidentiality of data management. A lack of knowledge related to STIs and their treatment, and in how to access and perform STI tests further served as a barrier. Culturally tailored interventions targeting these factors and delivered by radio, podcasts and social media were highlighted as having potential to improve engagement with STI testing. DISCUSSION Engagement with STI testing by young adults from the Black Caribbean community is impacted by historically and culturally embedded teachings, practices and beliefs inherited through generations. Targeting these factors within culturally tailored interventions may be effective for increasing STI-testing, and thus reducing rates of STI-infection in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Heath
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kiranpal Kaur
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claire Farrow
- School of Psychology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan D C Ross
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca Clarke
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Aduloju-Ajijola N, Oyerinde IA, Gaul ZJ, Gaskins S, Sutton MY, Cody SL, Johnson K, Mugoya GCT, Payne-Foster P. HIV Knowledge among African Americans Living with HIV in the Rural South: Implications for Improving HIV Prevention and Care Outcomes. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:364-370. [PMID: 36725808 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01524-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examines the HIV knowledge of people living with HIV (PLWH) and its implications for improved healthcare outcomes. METHODS The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional study, and a total of 41 PLWH were recruited from a larger faith-based anti-stigma study. Data was collected using a semi-structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SAS. In addition, a literature review was conducted using search engines to gauge existing literature from 2013 to 2022 in areas of HIV knowledge and healthcare outcomes among PLWH. RESULTS The 41 PLWH enrolled consisted of 51% males and 49% females. Sixteen (39%) were aged ≥ 51 years, 17 (41%) had been living with HIV for > 10 years, 15 (37%) had < high school diploma, and 100% were currently in HIV care. HIV knowledge scores were below average for 20 (49%) of the PLWH. Substantial knowledge deficits were noted in areas of HIV transmission and risk reduction strategies. Lower scores were not significantly associated with the participant's gender, education level, or length of time being HIV-infected. The results of the literature review showed limited research in this area. CONCLUSIONS The study and literature review results show that HIV knowledge and health literacy may contribute to racial disparities in retention in care leading to poor health outcomes. Healthcare providers and health facilities in rural areas should be equipped with culturally tailored HIV educational tools to strengthen ongoing care for PLWH, foster patient-provider relationships, and eliminate internalized stigma detrimental to improved healthcare outcomes among PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ifeoluwa Abosede Oyerinde
- Department of Community Medicine and Population Health Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | | | - Susan Gaskins
- Capstone College of Nursing, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Madeline Y Sutton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shameka L Cody
- Capstone College of Nursing, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Karen Johnson
- School of Social Work, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - George C T Mugoya
- College of Human Environmental Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Pamela Payne-Foster
- Department of Community Medicine and Population Health Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
- Department of Community Medicine and Population Health Sciences, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa Campus, 211 Peter Bryce Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA.
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Pichon LC, Jewell EN, Williams Stubbs A, Jones D, Campbell B, Kimble KM, Stewart GM, Hurd-Sawyer L, Carroll L, Powell TW. An Engaged Community of Faith to Decrease HIV Stigma in the U.S. South. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2100. [PMID: 36767467 PMCID: PMC9915988 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Community members from a city in the U.S. Deep South identified root causes of HIV racial disparities, including stigma. This meeting report describes how we developed and implemented a conference series to address HIV stigma. We used community feedback and bidirectional learning to host two meetings in observance of National HIV Testing Day (June 2021) and National Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (August 2021). We established a 10-member organizing committee workgroup that met monthly to plan the Faith Summit in honor of National Black HIV Awareness Day (February 2022). Lessons learned include (a) the effectiveness of different community engagement strategies, including participatory evaluative approaches, and (b) strategies to maintain engagement and increase participation, such as reliance on personal and professional networks and prompting the community about forthcoming interventions. Sustaining a conference series to end HIV stigma requires commitment and inclusive participation. This collaborative project offers additional evidence that faith communities can be a part of the solution to ending the HIV epidemic and related health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latrice C. Pichon
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Erin N. Jewell
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | - Andrea Williams Stubbs
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lacretia Carroll
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Terrinieka W. Powell
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Pichon LC, Teti M, McGoy S, Murry VM, Juarez PD. Engaging Black men who have sex with men (MSM) in the South in identifying strategies to increase PrEP uptake. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1491. [PMID: 36476363 PMCID: PMC9727972 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08914-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Promotion, uptake, and adherence of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is paramount to ending the HIV epidemic among young Black men who have sex with men in the South. The purpose of this study was to explore strategies needed for and barriers to PrEP uptake needed to achieve HIV prevention goals identified in the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services initiative to reduce new HIV infections in the United States by 90 percent by 2030. METHOD Young adults (n = 25) between the ages of 15-34 were recruited from community-based organizations in Memphis to participate in four focus group discussions. Discussion topics included motivations, barriers, and facilitators to PrEP use. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS All (100%) of participants self-identified as HIV-negative, Black (96%), men who have sex with men (96%), and currently prescribed PrEP/Truvada (60%). Themes identified for increasing uptake included 1) trusted peers, 2) relatable healthcare provider (e.g., Historically Black College and University (HBCU) trained, LGBTQ), and 3) use of social media. Mislabeling of PrEP as promiscuity promoting and limitations with PrEP marketing (e.g., solely LGBTQ) were recognized as barriers that perpetuated stigma. CONCLUSION Findings suggest the importance of increasing awareness among health professions students matriculating at HBCUs of their perceived role as relatable healthcare providers by Black MSM; working closely with couples; and crafting of PrEP messaging that is non-stigmatizing. Findings will inform public health interventions for young Black MSM and facilitate HIV prevention efforts with other groups disproportionally affected by HIV in the South.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latrice C. Pichon
- grid.56061.340000 0000 9560 654XSchool of Public Health, Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Memphis, 3825 Desoto Ave 209 Robison Hall, Memphis, TN 38152 USA
| | - Michelle Teti
- grid.134936.a0000 0001 2162 3504Department of Public Health, The University of Missouri, 806 Lewis Hall, Columbia, MO 65211 USA
| | - Shanell McGoy
- grid.416951.e0000 0004 0437 4464Formerly Tennessee Department of Health, 710 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243 USA
| | - Velma McBride Murry
- grid.412807.80000 0004 1936 9916Departments of Health Policy Human and Organizational Development, Vanderbilt University Medical Center & Peabody College, PMB 90 230 Appleton Place, Nashville, TN 37203 USA
| | - Paul D. Juarez
- grid.259870.10000 0001 0286 752XDepartment of Family & Community Medicine, Meharry Medical College, 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37208 USA
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Teizazu H, Hirsch JS, Parker RG, Wilson PA. Framing HIV and AIDS: how leaders of black religious institutions in New York City interpret and address sex and sexuality in their HIV interventions. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:904-919. [PMID: 33810778 PMCID: PMC8486886 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1898676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study explored how leaders of Black churches active in the fight against HIV conceptualised sex and sexuality when describing HIV interventions within their institutions. We analysed interviews with pastors and identified three frames through which leaders understood and communicated about sex and sexuality: (1) an evasive frame, in which participants avoided discussing behaviours and populations that have historically been disparaged within the church by emphasising involuntary risk exposure; (2) an agentic frame, which recognised sexual behaviour that differed from heteronormative conduct; and, (3) a pluralist frame, which allowed individuals to maintain their own beliefs about appropriate sexual conduct. Participants used frames to engage in a range of HIV interventions while upholding stigmatising beliefs about sexual behaviour and identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hawi Teizazu
- Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Reif S, Wilson E, Cooper H, Hunter G, McAllaster C. Identification and Reporting of Gender Identity in HIV Surveillance Data in the Deep South. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2022; 19:1357-1364. [PMID: 35075373 PMCID: PMC8771604 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-021-00684-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Although studies have identified high prevalence of HIV among individuals who are transgender, HIV surveillance data regarding gender identity is incomplete, resulting in uncertainty regarding the gender identity, including transgender and other diverse gender identities, of individuals diagnosed with HIV. This information is critical to planning strategies for HIV prevention and care. Methods From August 2018 to March 2019, interviews were conducted with HIV surveillance leadership (including Surveillance Directors, Epidemiologists, and HIV/STI Prevention Staff) at offices of epidemiology from eight US Deep South states regarding their practices related to gender identity documentation in HIV surveillance data and the barriers encountered in these documentation processes as well as their recommendations for improving gender identity data collection. Results Interview findings indicated significant barriers to collection of accurate gender identity information in HIV surveillance data including lack of standardized data systems for collecting gender identity; difficulty obtaining gender identity information from HIV testing sites, laboratories, and medical databases; and need for enhanced cultural sensitivity and gender identity knowledge at all levels of the data collection process. Recommendations from the state HIV surveillance staff, leaders, and epidemiologists are included in the findings. Conclusions and Policy Implications Effective, well-coordinated strategies are needed to improve gender identity information in HIV surveillance reporting. Recommendations include standardizing and enhancing data collection strategies, providing cultural sensitivity training at all levels of HIV testing/reporting, and developing formal guidance and providing technical assistance that targets and educates laboratories and medical organizations to implement systems of data collection that routinely and safely capture gender identity data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Reif
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Elena Wilson
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Haley Cooper
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Genevieve Hunter
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, USA
| | - Carolyn McAllaster
- Colin W. Brown Clinical Professor Emerita of Law, Duke University, Durham, USA
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Pratt MC, Jeffcoat S, Hill SV, Gill E, Elopre L, Simpson T, Lanzi R, Matthews LT. "We Feel Like Everybody's Going to Judge us": Black Adolescent Girls' and Young Women's Perspectives on Barriers to and Opportunities for Improving Sexual Health Care, Including PrEP, in the Southern U.S. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2022; 21:23259582221107327. [PMID: 35699978 PMCID: PMC9201301 DOI: 10.1177/23259582221107327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Black adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are disproportionately affected by
HIV in the southern U.S.; however, PrEP prescriptions to Black AGYW remain
scarce. We conducted in-depth interviews (IDIs) with Black AGYW ages 14-24 in
Alabama to explore opportunities for and barriers to sexual health care
including PrEP prescription. Twelve AGYW participated in IDIs with median age 20
(range 19-24). All reported condomless sex, 1-3 sexual partners in the past 3
months, and 6 reported prior STI. Themes included: 1) Stigma related to sex
contributes to inadequate discussions with educators, healthcare providers, and
parents about sexual health; 2) Intersecting stigmas around race and gender
impact Black women's care-seeking behavior; 3) Many AGYW are aware of PrEP but
don't perceive it as an option for them. Multifaceted interventions utilizing
the perspectives, voices, and experiences of Black cisgender AGYW are needed to
curb the HIV epidemic in Alabama and the U.S. South.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline C Pratt
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Samantha V Hill
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Gill
- School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Latesha Elopre
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Tina Simpson
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Robin Lanzi
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lynn T Matthews
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, AL, USA
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African American Clergy Recommendations to Enhance the Federal Plan to End the HIV Epidemic: A Qualitative Study. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:100-111. [PMID: 34417672 PMCID: PMC8379056 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
African Americans in the southern United States continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV. Although faith-based organizations (FBOs) play important roles in the social fabric of African American communities, few HIV screening, care, and PrEP promotion efforts harness the power of FBOs. We conducted 11 focus groups among 57 prominent African American clergy from Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama. We explored clergy knowledge about the Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America (EHE); normative recommendations for how clergy can contribute to EHE; and how clergy can enhance the HIV care continua and PrEP. We explored how clergy have responded to the COVID-19 crisis, and lessons learned from pandemic experiences that are relevant for HIV programs. Clergy reported a moral obligation to participate in the response to the HIV epidemic and were willing to support efforts to expand HIV screening, treatment, PrEP and HIV care. Few clergy were familiar with EHE, U = U and TasP. Many suggested developing culturally tailored messages and were willing to lend their voices to social marketing efforts to destigmatize HIV and promote uptake of biomedical interventions. Nearly all clergy believed technical assistance with biomedical HIV prevention and care interventions would enhance their ability to create partnerships with local community health centers. Partnering with FBOs presents important and unique opportunities to reduce HIV disparities. Clergy want to participate in the EHE movement and need federal resources and technical assistance to support their efforts to bridge community activities with biomedical prevention and care programs related to HIV. The COVID-19 pandemic presents opportunities to build important infrastructure related to these goals.
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Williams MS, Poteat T, Bender M, Ugwu P, Burns PA. Revitalizing HIV Prevention Programs: Recommendations From Those Most Impacted by the HIV in the Deep South. Am J Health Promot 2021; 36:155-164. [PMID: 34409888 DOI: 10.1177/08901171211041097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The incidence of new HIV infections is disproportionately high among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) in Mississippi. Community-based organizations received funding through the ACCELERATE! initiative to implement interventions aimed at increasing BMSM's access to HIV prevention, treatment and care interventions. APPROACH We conducted a mixed methods evaluation of the ACCELERATE! initiative to assess its impact. We also explored factors that act as barriers to and facilitators of BMSM's engagement in HIV prevention interventions. SETTING Interviews were conducted between July 2018 and February 2020. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-six BMSM and 13 non-grantee key informants who worked in the field of HIV in Mississippi participated. METHOD The qualitative data from the interview transcripts was analyzed using an iterative, inductive coding process. RESULTS We identified 10 key recommendations that were most common across all participants and that were aligned with UNAIDS Global AIDS Strategy strategic priorities. Several recommendations address the reduction of HIV- and LGBT-stigma. Two of the most common recommendations were to increase representation of the target population in health promotion program leadership and to include HIV with other Black health issues in community-based health education programs rather than singling it out. Another recommendation called for programs aimed at addressing underlying factors associated with HIV-risk behaviors, such as mental illness. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that HIV education interventions in the Deep South need to be revitalized to enhance their reach and effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S Williams
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Tonia Poteat
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Melverta Bender
- Office of STD/HIV, Mississippi State Department of Health, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Precious Ugwu
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Paul A Burns
- Department of Population Health Science, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
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Cody SL. Influence of Spirituality, HIV Stigma and Education on HIV Knowledge in Rural African American Congregants in the Deep South: Additional Findings from Project FAITHH. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE, SCIENCE AND THE HUMANITIES 2021; 11:259-274. [PMID: 36818217 PMCID: PMC9930515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
HIV incidence has shifted racially and geographically in the United States and now represents higher proportions of African Americans living in the Rural South. Lower levels of HIV knowledge may be the culprit behind the increasing HIV rates observed in the Rural South. The purpose of this study was to investigate the individual and joint correlates of HIV knowledge in a sample of rural African Americans. Baseline data from a faith-based anti-stigma intervention (Project FAITHH, N= 210) was used to assess associations between sociodemographic characteristics, spirituality, stigma, and HIV knowledge scores. Associations were examined with recursive partitioning. Statistical significance was determined at P< 0.05 with a two-sided test. Recursive partitioning revealed five distinct groups based on the data. HIV knowledge scores were highest among participants who attended some college (P < 0.001) with lower levels of individual stigma (P < 0.001). HIV knowledge scores were lowest among less educated individuals (P < 0.001) who had lower levels of perceived community stigma (P = 0.002). Future interventions designed to improve HIV knowledge in rural African Americans should consider tailoring content to those who have the greatest deficits in HIV knowledge, which may be based on perceived community stigma and education levels.
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