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Hull SJ, Duan X, Brant AR, Ye PP, Lotke PS, Huang JC, Coleman ME, Nalls P, Scott RK. Understanding Psychosocial Determinants of PrEP Uptake Among Cisgender Women Experiencing Heightened HIV Risk: Implications for Multi-Level Communication Intervention. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 38:3264-3275. [PMID: 36398676 PMCID: PMC10192462 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2022.2145781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective daily pill that decreases the likelihood of HIV acquisition by up to 92% among individuals at risk for HIV. PrEP can be discretely used, autonomously controlled, and in place at the time of risk exposure, making it an especially promising method for HIV prevention for cisgender women (CGW). But, PrEP is underutilized by CGW relative to the demonstrable need. We apply the Integrative Model of Behavioral Prediction to identify the critical psychosocial factors that shape CGW's intentions to use PrEP and their relevant underlying beliefs. We surveyed (N = 294) community- and clinic-recruited PrEP eligible CGW to understand the relative importance of attitudes, norms, and efficacy in shaping PrEP intentions. We utilized structural equation modeling to identify the relevant paths. We inspected the summary statistics in relation to three message three selection criteria. We identified beliefs that demonstrated (1) an association with intention, (2) substantial room to move the population, (3) practicality as a target for change through communication intervention. Results show that PrEP awareness was low. When women learned about PrEP, they voiced positive intentions to use it. There were significant and positive direct effects of SE (0.316***), attitudes (0.201**), and subjective norms (0.249***) on intention to initiate PrEP. We illustrate the strategic identification of beliefs within the relevant paths using the 3 belief selection criteria. We also discuss implications for social and structural communication interventions to support women's HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xuejing Duan
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, The George Washington University
| | | | - Peggy Peng Ye
- Women’s and Infants’ Services Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Georgetown University School of Medicine
| | - Pamela S. Lotke
- Women’s and Infants’ Services Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, Georgetown University School of Medicine
| | - Jim C. Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University
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Arnold T, Whiteley L, Elwy RA, Ward LM, Konkle-Parker DJ, Brock JB, Giorlando KK, Barnett AP, Sims-Gomillia C, Craker LK, Lockwood KR, Leigland A, Brown LK. Mapping Implementation Science with Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (MIS-ERIC): Strategies to Improve PrEP Use among Black Cisgender Women Living in Mississippi. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:2744-2761. [PMID: 36396922 PMCID: PMC9672575 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01452-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black women are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic. Strategies to increase Black women's use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are needed. METHODS Interviews were conducted in Mississippi (MS) with Black, cisgender women at risk for HIV, and community healthcare clinic (CHC) staff who work directly with this population. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and select appropriate implementation strategies to increase PrEP care. RESULTS Twenty Black women and twelve CHC staff were interviewed. PrEP use barriers resulted from low HIV risk awareness, lack of PrEP knowledge, and structural and stigma-related barriers. Methods for PrEP education and motivation included normalizing PrEP in public communications, providing education at places where women congregate, and tailoring PrEP content with Black women as educators. The Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) project provides a way for implementation scientists to select strategies that are consistent within research and practice across studies. Strategies from the ERIC project were selected to address implementation barriers. CONCLUSIONS Tailoring PrEP implementation protocols to increase Black women's access, engagement, and adherence to PrEP is needed. This is one of the first implementation studies to incorporate these four implementation concepts into a single study: (1) implementation outcomes, (2) i-PARIHS, (3) ERIC's strategy list, and (4) operationalizing the strategies using the Proctor et al., guidelines. Results provide an in-depth comprehensive list of implementation strategies to increase PrEP uptake for Black women in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Arnold
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA.
| | - Laura Whiteley
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rani A Elwy
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Lori M Ward
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Deborah J Konkle-Parker
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - James B Brock
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | | | - Andrew P Barnett
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
| | - Courtney Sims-Gomillia
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Lacey K Craker
- Division of Prevention Science and Community Health, University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Khadijra R Lockwood
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Avery Leigland
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
| | - Larry K Brown
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
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Scott RK, Hull SJ, Huang JC, Ye PP, Lotke P, Beverley J, Moriarty P, Balaji D, Ward A, Holiday J, Brant AR, Elion R, Visconti AJ, Coleman M. Intention to Initiate HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Cisgender Women in a High HIV Prevalence U.S. City. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:541-550. [PMID: 37479630 PMCID: PMC10552685 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.05.009] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to identify the individual, interpersonal, community, health-system, and structural factors that influence HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) initiation among cisgender women seeking sexual and reproductive health care in a high HIV prevalence community to inform future clinic-based PrEP interventions. METHODS We collected anonymous, tablet-based questionnaires from a convenience sample of cisgender women in family planning and sexual health clinics in the District of Columbia. The survey used the lens of the socio-ecological model to measure individual, interpersonal, community, institutional, and structural factors surrounding intention to initiate PrEP. The survey queried demographics, behavioral exposure to HIV, perceived risk of HIV acquisition, a priori awareness of PrEP, intention to initiate PrEP, and factors influencing intention to initiate PrEP. RESULTS A total of 1437 cisgender women completed the survey. By socio-ecological level, intention to initiate PrEP was associated with positive attitudes toward PrEP (odds ratio [OR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-2.15) and higher self-efficacy (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.02-1.72) on the individual level, perceived future utilization of PrEP among peers and low fear of shame/stigma (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.33-2.04) on the community level, and having discussed PrEP with a provider (OR. 2.39; 95% CI, 1.20-4.75) on the institutional level. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the importance of multilevel, clinic-based interventions for cisgender women, which promote sex-positive and preventive PrEP messaging, peer navigation to destigmatize PrEP, and education and support for women's health medical providers in the provision of PrEP services for cisgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Scott
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland; MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
| | - Shawnika J Hull
- Rutgers University, Department of Communications, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Jim C Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Peggy P Ye
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Pamela Lotke
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | | | | | - Allison Ward
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland; MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - Ashley R Brant
- MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland
| | - Rick Elion
- DC Health, Washington, District of Columbia
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Scott RK, Deyarmond M, Marwitz S, Huang JC, Moriarty P, Visconti AJ, Beverley J, Elion R, Coleman M, Hull SJ. Implementation of an Educational Intervention to Improve HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Services for Women in an Urban Sexual Health Clinic. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:447-457. [PMID: 37713289 PMCID: PMC10623070 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0107] [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] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To test the hypothesis that implementation of a multicomponent, educational HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) intervention to promote universal PrEP services for cisgender women (subsequently "women") in sexual and reproductive health centers would improve the proportion of women screened, offered, and prescribed PrEP, we implemented a multicomponent, educational intervention in a Washington D.C. Department of Health-sponsored sexual health clinic. The clinic serves a patient population with high-potential exposure to HIV. The intervention included clinic-wide PrEP trainings, an electronic health record prompt for PrEP counseling by providers, and educational videos in the waiting room. We collected preimplementation data from March 22, 2018 to July 4, 2018, including 331 clinical encounters for 329 women. Between July 5, 2018 and July 1, 2019, there were 1733 clinical encounters for 1720 HIV-negative women. We used mixed methods to systematically assess intervention implementation using the Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation Maintenance framework. Additionally, we assessed the interventions' acceptability and feasibility among providers through semistructured interviews. The proportion of women screened by providers for PrEP (5.6% preimplementation to a mean of 89.2% of women during the implementation period, p < 0.01), offered (6.2 to 69.8%, p < 0.01), and prescribed PrEP (2.6 to 8.1%, p < 0.01) by providers increased significantly in the implementation period. Providers and clinic staff found the intervention both highly feasible and acceptable and demonstrated increased knowledge of PrEP and HIV prevention associated with the clinic-wide trainings. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of a low-cost educational intervention to increase provision of integrated PrEP services in an urban sexual health clinic serving women with high-potential exposure to HIV. ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03705663.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K. Scott
- Department of Women's and Infants' Services, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Division of Women's Health Research, MedStar Health Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Megan Deyarmond
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Shannon Marwitz
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jim C. Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Patricia Moriarty
- Division of Women's Health Research, MedStar Health Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Adam J. Visconti
- HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration, DC Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jason Beverley
- HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration, DC Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Rick Elion
- HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration, DC Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Megan Coleman
- Whitman Walker Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Shawnika J. Hull
- Department of Prevention and Community Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Keddem S, Agha A, Morawej S, Buck A, Cronholm P, Sonalkar S, Kearney M. Characterizing Twitter Content About HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for Women: Qualitative Content Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e43596. [PMID: 37166954 PMCID: PMC10214116 DOI: 10.2196/43596] [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: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV remains a persistent health problem in the United States, especially among women. Approved in 2012, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a daily pill or bimonthly injection that can be taken by individuals at increased risk of contracting HIV to reduce their risk of new infection. Women who are at risk of HIV face numerous barriers to HIV services and information, underscoring the critical need for strategies to increase awareness of evidence-based HIV prevention methods, such as HIV PrEP, among women. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify historical trends in the use of Twitter hashtags specific to women and HIV PrEP and explore content about women and PrEP shared through Twitter. METHODS This was a qualitative descriptive study using a purposive sample of tweets containing hashtags related to women and HIV PrEP from 2009 to 2022. Tweets were collected via Twitter's API. Each Twitter user profile, tweet, and related links were coded using content analysis, guided by the framework of the Health Belief Model (HBM) to generate results. We used a factor analysis to identify salient clusters of tweets. RESULTS A total of 1256 tweets from 396 unique users were relevant to our study focus of content about PrEP specifically for women (1256/2908, 43.2% of eligible tweets). We found that this sample of tweets was posted mostly by organizations. The 2 largest groups of individual users were activists and advocates (61/396, 15.4%) and personal users (54/396, 13.6%). Among individual users, most were female (100/166, 60%) and American (256/396, 64.6%). The earliest relevant tweet in our sample was posted in mid-2014 and the number of tweets significantly decreased after 2018. We found that 61% (496/820) of relevant tweets contained links to informational websites intended to provide guidance and resources or promote access to PrEP. Most tweets specifically targeted people of color, including through the use of imagery and symbolism. In addition to inclusive imagery, our factor analysis indicated that more than a third of tweets were intended to share information and promote PrEP to people of color. Less than half of tweets contained any HBM concepts, and only a few contained cues to action. Lastly, while our sample included only tweets relevant to women, we found that the tweets directed to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) audiences received the highest levels of audience engagement. CONCLUSIONS These findings point to several areas for improvement in future social media campaigns directed at women about PrEP. First, future posts would benefit from including more theoretical constructs, such as self-efficacy and cues to action. Second, organizations posting on Twitter should continue to broaden their audience and followers to reach more people. Lastly, tweets should leverage the momentum and strategies used by the LGBTQ community to reach broader audiences and destigmatize PrEP use across all communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimrit Keddem
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Aneeza Agha
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sabrina Morawej
- Center for Health Equity, Research & Promotion, Corporal Michael J Crescenz VA Medical Center, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amy Buck
- Center for Public Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Peter Cronholm
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Center for Public Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sarita Sonalkar
- Division of Family Planning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Matthew Kearney
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Rao A, Lesko C, Mhlophe H, Rucinski K, Mcingana M, Pretorius A, Mcloughlin J, Baral S, Beyrer C, Hausler H, Schwartz S. Longitudinal patterns of initiation, persistence, and cycling on preexposure prophylaxis among female sex workers and adolescent girls and young women in South Africa. AIDS 2023; 37:977-986. [PMID: 36723509 PMCID: PMC10079574 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Female sex workers (FSW) and adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) face a disproportionately high risk of HIV in South Africa. Oral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can avert new infections, but its effectiveness is linked to consistent use. Early discontinuation of PrEP in this population is high, but less is known about longitudinal patterns of PrEP use, including patterns of re-initiation and cycling. DESIGN Longitudinal descriptive analysis of routine program data. METHODS Between 2016 and 2021, 40 681 FSW and AGYW initiated PrEP at TB HIV Care, the largest PrEP provider to this population in South Africa and were included. Using survival analyses and group-based trajectory modeling, we described patterns of initiation, discontinuation, re-initiation, and cycling. RESULTS Total initiations increased over the life of the program for both FSW and AGYW. About 40% of FSW [0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.40-0.42]] and AGYW (0.38, 95% CI [0.37-0.38]) remained on PrEP at one month. FSW were more likely to restart PrEP, however <10% restarted PrEP within a year of initiation. Three latent trajectory groups of PrEP use were identified for FSW (low use, early cycling, and ongoing cycling) and two for AGYW (low use and ongoing cycling). Persistence was negatively associated with initiation among AGYW, but there was no clear relationship among FSW. Those initiating later in the program and older women had a reduced risk of discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Persistence on PrEP was low, but cycling on and off PrEP was common, with early missed visits and inconsistent, but ongoing use. A push to increase PrEP initiations needs to factor in readiness and persistence support, to achieve public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Rao
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Catherine Lesko
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Katherine Rucinski
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Stefan Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Sheree Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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7
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Burns JA, Hull SJ, Inuwa A, Moriarty P, Scott RK. Understanding Retention in the HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Cascade Among Cisgender Women. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:205-211. [PMID: 36961388 PMCID: PMC10122259 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV remains a significant public health concern in the United States, with 34,800 new cases diagnosed in 2019; of those, 18% were among women. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with daily tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine is effective and safe, reducing HIV transmission by up to 92% in women. Though studies demonstrate low rates of PrEP adherence among cisgender women prescribed oral PrEP, little is known about the factors that shape PrEP continuation among them. This study focuses on understanding the experiences of cisgender women who have initiated PrEP to gain insight into the factors that shape PrEP continuation. We conducted semi-structured interviews with (N = 20) women who had been prescribed oral PrEP. Interviews were guided by the social-ecological framework to identify multilevel factors affecting PrEP continuation; we specifically examined the experience of engagement and retention in the PrEP cascade. We recruited women who had been prescribed oral PrEP by a government-sponsored sexual health center or a hospital-based family planning clinic in Washington, DC. Factors facilitating PrEP continuation included a positive emotional experience associated with PrEP use, high perceived risk of HIV acquisition, and high-quality communication with health care providers. The most common reason for PrEP discontinuation was low perceived HIV risk (n = 11). Other factors influencing discontinuation were side effects, a negative emotional experience while using PrEP, and negative interactions with the health care system. This study underscores the importance of specific multi-level factors, including the provision of high-quality communication designed to resonate with women and shared decision making between women and their health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie A. Burns
- MedStar Health Research Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shawnika J. Hull
- Department of Communication, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Aisha Inuwa
- MedStar Health Research Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Patricia Moriarty
- MedStar Health Research Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Rachel K. Scott
- MedStar Health Research Institute, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Ayangeakaa SD, Kerr J, Combs R, Harris L, Sears J, Parker K, Sterrett-Hong E. Understanding Influences on Intention to Use Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Among African American Young Adults. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:899-910. [PMID: 35290648 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01278-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a potent medication for HIV prevention, shows promise for reducing HIV disparities. However, PrEP is not equitably utilized by all races and ethnicities in the USA. Its uptake is especially low among African Americans, who are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Understanding factors influencing low PrEP uptake among diverse priority groups of African American young adults beyond gender and sexual minority groups (e.g., cisgender heterosexual people) may increase PrEP uptake. Data were from the Afya project, a study examining the use of PrEP for HIV prevention among multiple priority groups of African American young adults at heightened HIV risk, using Theory of Reasoned Action/Theory of Planned Behavior (TRA/TPB) as a theoretical framework. Eleven focus groups (N = 63) were conducted in Louisville, Kentucky from June to November 2018 with African American young adult priority groups (18-29 years old): men who have sex with men, transgender women, and cisgender heterosexual men and women demonstrating heightened sexual risk. Data were analyzed using constructivist grounded theory techniques. PrEP awareness, knowledge, perceived HIV risk and perceived need for PrEP (behavioral beliefs) and adherence beliefs (control beliefs), opinions of others (subjective norms), and confidence in ability to adhere to PrEP (perceived behavior controls) influenced acceptability of PrEP (participants' attitudes) and, in turn, influenced intention to use PrEP either negatively or positively. Thus, understanding factors that create reticence to PrEP use provides useful insight for tailoring outreach interventions towards African American young adults to improve PrEP uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suur D Ayangeakaa
- Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Jelani Kerr
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ryan Combs
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Lesley Harris
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jeanelle Sears
- Department of Human Services, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, USA
| | | | - Emma Sterrett-Hong
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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Feijoo-Cid M, Fernández-Cano MI, Zalazar V, Moriña-Soler D, García-Sierra R, Arreciado Marañón A, Sued O. Assessing the Underestimation of HIV Risk Infection among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in Argentina. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15269. [PMID: 36429984 PMCID: PMC9690491 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to describe the discordance between the self-perceived risk and actual risk of HIV among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and its associated factors. An online, cross-sectional study was conducted with 405 men recruited from an Argentinian NGO in 2017. Risk discordance (RD) was defined as the expression of the underestimation of risk, that is, as a lower self-perception of HIV risk, as measured with the Perceived Risk of HIV Scale, than the current risk of HIV infection, as measured by the HIV Incidence Risk Index. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations between the RD and the explanatory variables. High HIV risk was detected in 251 (62%), while 106 (26.2%) showed high self-perceived risk. RD was found in 230 (56.8%) YMSM. The predictors that increased RD were consistent condom use with casual partners (aOR = 3.8 [CI 95:1.5-11.0]), the use of Growler to meet partners (aOR = 10.38 [CI 95:161-121.94]), frequenting gay bars (aOR = 1.9 [95% CI:1.1-3.5]) and using LSD (aOR = 5.44 [CI 95:1.32-30.29]). Underestimation of HIV risk in YMSM is associated with standard HIV risk behavior and modulated by psychosocial aspects. Thus, prevention campaigns aimed at YMSM should include these factors, even though clinical practice does not. Health professionals should reconsider adapting their instruments to measure the risk of HIV in YMSM. It is unknown what score should be used for targeting high-risk YMSM, so more research is needed to fill this gap. Further research is needed to assess what score should be used for targeting high-risk in YMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Feijoo-Cid
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Grup de REcerca Multidisciplinar en SAlut i Societat (GREMSAS), (2017 SGR 917), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Isabel Fernández-Cano
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Grup de REcerca Multidisciplinar en SAlut i Societat (GREMSAS), (2017 SGR 917), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Virginia Zalazar
- Dirección de Investigaciones, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires C1202ABB, Argentina
| | - David Moriña-Soler
- Department of Econometrics, Statistics and Applied Economics, Universitat de Barcelona, Riskcenter-IREA, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa García-Sierra
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Grup de REcerca Multidisciplinar en SAlut i Societat (GREMSAS), (2017 SGR 917), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Research Support Unit Metropolitana Nord, Primary Care Research Institut Jordi Gol (IDIAPJGol), 08303 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonia Arreciado Marañón
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
- Grup de REcerca Multidisciplinar en SAlut i Societat (GREMSAS), (2017 SGR 917), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Omar Sued
- Dirección de Investigaciones, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires C1202ABB, Argentina
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10
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Haider S, Friedman EE, Ott E, Moore A, Pandiani A, Desmarais C, Johnson AK. Knowledgeable, aware / interested: Young black women's perceptions of pre-exposure prophylaxis. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:671009. [PMID: 36303637 PMCID: PMC9580699 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.671009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose HIV in the United States disproportionately affects young Black women. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective HIV prevention option that has the potential to reduce HIV incidence among HIV-vulnerable populations. However, data regarding women's awareness, interest in starting, and feelings of acceptability or stigma about PrEP remains limited, particularly among adolescent and young Black women. Materials and methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 100 sexually active young Black women ages 13–24 years attending women's health clinics in Chicago, IL. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and determine more about what the PrEP needs and barriers are in this community. Associations were modeled using logistic regression and 95% confidence intervals for both bivariate and multivariable models. Results In our survey (N = 100), half of study participants (50%) expressed interest in starting PrEP in the next three months and a majority (80%) of young women were confident they could obtain PrEP. Pregnant young women were significantly more interested in starting PrEP than non-pregnant women [OR 2.3 95% CI (1.0, 5.4)], p = 0.05), however, this association did not remain significant in adjusted models. Conclusions This study provides a more complete understanding of awareness, interest in, and acceptability of PrEP among adolescent and young Black women attending women's health clinics. Findings indicate sustained interest in starting PrEP, reduced stigma, and increased awareness of PrEP among young Black women. These findings suggest that integrating PrEP into women's health clinics is a promising strategy to increase awareness and utilization of PrEP and decrease HIV transmission among youth at highest risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Haider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
- Correspondence: Sadia Haider
| | - Eleanor E. Friedman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Emily Ott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amy Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Agustina Pandiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Catherine Desmarais
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amy K. Johnson
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann / Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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11
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Scott RK, Hull SJ, Huang JC, Coleman M, Ye P, Lotke P, Beverley J, Moriarty P, Balaji D, Ward A, Holiday J, Brant AR, Cameron M, Elion R, Visconti A. Factors Associated with Intention to Initiate Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in Cisgender Women at High Behavioral Risk for HIV in Washington, D.C. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2613-2624. [PMID: 35622077 PMCID: PMC9308717 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02274-4] [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: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is underutilized by cisgender women at risk for HIV in the USA. Published research on PrEP initiation among cisgender women at risk for HIV focuses on identifying barriers and facilitators associated with intention to initiate, but few apply a behavioral theoretical lens to understand the relative importance of these diverse factors. This study provides a theoretically grounded view of the relative importance of factors associated with intention to initiate PrEP. We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional survey of 1437 cisgender women seeking care at family planning and sexual health clinics to evaluate hypothesized barriers and facilitators of PrEP initiation. We categorized cisgender women with ≥ 3 behavioral risk-factors as "high-risk" for HIV acquisition; 26.9% (N = 387) met high-risk criterion. Among cisgender women in the high-risk sample, the majority were Black and single. Perceived risk of HIV acquisition was low and 13.7% reported intention to initiate PrEP. Positive attitudes toward PrEP, self-efficacy, perceived support from medical providers and social networks, and prior discussion about PrEP with medical providers were associated with intention to initiate PrEP; stigma was negatively associated. Background characteristics (other than age), risk factors for HIV acquisition, prior awareness of PrEP, and perceived risk of HIV were not associated with uptake intention. These findings support interventions that center on the role of providers in the provision of PrEP and on social networks in destigmatization of PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Scott
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA.
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Shawnika J Hull
- Department of Communication, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jim C Huang
- Department of Business Management, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | - Peggy Ye
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Pam Lotke
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Patricia Moriarty
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Dhikshitha Balaji
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Allison Ward
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jennifer Holiday
- MedStar Health Research Institute, 6525 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD, 20782, USA
| | - Ashley R Brant
- Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Martha Cameron
- International Community of Women Living with HIV, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Adam Visconti
- MedStar Georgetown University, NW Washington, DC, USA
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12
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Skaletz-Rorowski A, Potthoff A, Nambiar S, Basilowski M, Wach J, Kayser A, Kasper A, Brockmeyer NH. Online-HIV/STI-Risikotest (ORT): Eine prospektive Querschnittsstudie unter sexuell aktiven Personen in Deutschland. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2022; 20:306-315. [PMID: 35304954 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.14674_g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adriane Skaletz-Rorowski
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Interdisziplinäre Immunologische Ambulanz, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum
| | - Anja Potthoff
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Interdisziplinäre Immunologische Ambulanz, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum
| | - Sandeep Nambiar
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Interdisziplinäre Immunologische Ambulanz, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum
| | - Miriam Basilowski
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum
| | - Janet Wach
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Gesundheitsamt Bochum
| | - Arne Kayser
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Aidshilfe Bochum e.V., Bochum
| | - Andre Kasper
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Interdisziplinäre Immunologische Ambulanz, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum
| | - Norbert H Brockmeyer
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Bochum.,Interdisziplinäre Immunologische Ambulanz, Zentrum für Sexuelle Gesundheit und Medizin, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr Universität Bochum
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13
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Persistence on oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among female sex workers in eThekwini, South Africa, 2016–2020. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265434. [PMID: 35290421 PMCID: PMC8923438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the established efficacy of PrEP to prevent HIV and the advantages of a user-controlled method, PrEP uptake and persistence by women in both trials and demonstration projects has been suboptimal. We utilized real-world data from an HIV service provider to describe persistence on oral PrEP among female sex workers (FSW) in eThekwini, South Africa. Methods We examined time from PrEP initiation to discontinuation among all FSW initiating PrEP at TB HIV Care in eThekwini between 2016–2020. We used a discrete time-to-event data setup and stacked cumulative incidence function plots, displaying the competing risks of 1) not returning for PrEP, 2) client discontinuation, and 3) provider discontinuation. We calculated hazard ratios using complementary log-log regression and sub-hazard ratios using competing risks regression. Results The number of initiations increased each year from 155 (9.3%, n = 155/1659) in 2016 to 1224 (27.5%, n = 1224/4446) in 2020. Persistence 1-month after initiation was 53% (95% CI: 51%-55%). Younger women were more likely to discontinue PrEP by not returning compared with those 25 years and older. Risk of discontinuation through non-return declined for those initiating in later years. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, a greater number of initiations and sustained persistence were observed in 2020. Conclusions Low levels of PrEP persistence were observed, consistent with data among underserved women elsewhere. Encouragingly, the proportion of women persisting increased over time, even as the number of women newly initiating PrEP and staff workload increased. Further research is needed to understand which implementation strategies the program may have enacted to facilitate these improvements and what further changes may be necessary.
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14
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Skaletz-Rorowski A, Potthoff A, Nambiar S, Basilowski M, Wach J, Kayser A, Kasper A, Brockmeyer NH. Online HIV/STI Risk Test (ORT): A prospective cross-sectional study among sexually active individuals in Germany. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2022; 20:306-314. [PMID: 35218292 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.14674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our goal was to develop and evaluate an anonymous self-administrable web-based test to determine risk for HIV/STI. METHODS The Online HIV/STI Risk Test was developed and hosted since 12/2017. 11,529 participants completed the test and 10,668 were analyzed. The test included multiple choice questions about sociodemographic data, sexuality, sexual risk behavior, HIV/STI testing. Participant data was stratified by gender and sexuality and analyzed. RESULTS 84.5 % were aged 18-39, 7.5 % < 18 and 8.1 % > 40. Males were 53.1 %, female 46.3 % and trans 0.6 %. 12.5 % were men who have sex with men (MSM). 59.1 % and 66.0 % of participants were vaccinated for hepatitis A and B respectively, but 75.1 % unvaccinated for HPV. Prior and repeated instances of HIV or other STI were higher among MSM. Yet, 61.4 % females, 70 % males and 55.4 % MSM had never tested for an STI. Although prevalence of > 3 sexual partners in the last twelve months was highest among MSM, condomless sex was greater among women. 34.5 % of males, 25.6 % of females, and 75 % of MSM engaged in anal sex respectively. CONCLUSIONS The online HIV/STI Risk Test is a useful tool to acquire data on STI risk-behavior for strategizing STI prevention, testing, and vaccination, thus improving sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriane Skaletz-Rorowski
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Anja Potthoff
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sandeep Nambiar
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Miriam Basilowski
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany
| | - Janet Wach
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Public Health Department Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Arne Kayser
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Aids Service Organization Bochum e.V., Bochum, Germany
| | - Andre Kasper
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Norbert H Brockmeyer
- WIR - Walk In Ruhr, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Bochum, Germany.,Interdisciplinary Immunological Outpatient Clinic, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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15
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Public Health Detailing to Promote HIV Pre- and Postexposure Prophylaxis Among Women's Healthcare Providers in New York City. Am J Prev Med 2021; 61:S98-S107. [PMID: 34686296 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2021.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Equitable access to HIV pre- and postexposure prophylaxis for women is essential to ending the HIV epidemic. Providers' lack of knowledge and comfort in discussing and prescribing pre-exposure prophylaxis to women persist as barriers. METHODS From May to November 2019, the New York City Health Department conducted its first public health detailing campaigns among women's healthcare providers to promote pre- and postexposure prophylaxis and the associated best practices. Over 2 campaigns (10 weeks each), trained Health Department representatives visited providers for 1-on-1 visits at select practices to promote key messages. Representatives distributed an Action Kit that addressed knowledge gaps and practice needs on providing pre-exposure prophylaxis and postexposure prophylaxis to cisgender and transgender women. Providers completed an assessment at the beginning of initial and follow-up visits, used to compare responses across visits. Statistically significant changes were evaluated by generalized linear models of bivariate outcomes, adjusted for nonindependence of providers at the same practice. RESULTS Representatives visited 1,348 providers specializing in primary care (47%), women's health (30%), adolescent health (7%), infectious disease (4%), and other (12%) at 860 sites; 1,097 providers received initial and follow-up visits. Provider report of ever prescribing pre-exposure prophylaxis increased by 12% (n=119 providers); increases were reported in measures of taking sexual history, asking about partners' HIV status, providing postexposure prophylaxis, recognizing pre-exposure prophylaxis's effectiveness, and discussing and referring for pre-exposure prophylaxis. CONCLUSIONS After public health detailing, women's healthcare providers report increased adoption of recommended practices that promote pre- and postexposure prophylaxis uptake and sexual wellness among women. Detailing may be adaptable to other regions and contexts to reach providers.
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16
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Pasipanodya EC, Stockman J, Phuntsog T, Morris S, Psaros C, Landovitz R, Amico KR, Moore DJ, Blumenthal J. "PrEP"ing for a PrEP demonstration project: understanding PrEP knowledge and attitudes among cisgender women. BMC Womens Health 2021; 21:220. [PMID: 34034719 PMCID: PMC8146684 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to implementing a pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) demonstration study, we sought to explore cisgender women's experiences with HIV prevention, PrEP knowledge and attitudes, and anticipated barriers and facilitators for PrEP uptake and adherence in Southern California. METHODS Three focus groups were held with cisgender women of mixed HIV serostatus in San Diego and Los Angeles between November 2015 and January 2016. Women were recruited through local testing sites, community-based organizations, and social media. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Twenty-two women participated in focus groups, with median age 44 (IQR 30-53) and 6 identifying as non-Hispanic Black, 7 non-Hispanic White, 8 Latina and 1 mixed race. Despite limited prior PrEP knowledge and no PrEP experience, participants expressed interest in taking PrEP. Anticipated benefits were freedom from worry about HIV and control over sexual health; however, these were tempered by concerns including the possibility of increased HIV risk behaviors and potential side effects. Cisgender women reported potential barriers to PrEP uptake and adherence barriers, like competing priorities and poor PrEP access. Conversely, PrEP facilitators included utilizing practical tools such as phone apps and pill boxes as well as receiving encouragement from loved ones and support from other cisgender women on PrEP, women living with HIV and their medical providers. CONCLUSIONS Although PrEP awareness was low, participants recognized the importance of PrEP and ways to facilitate adherence. Exploring perspectives of cisgender women is integral to developing effective interventions to support PrEP uptake and adherence for women at elevated risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamila Stockman
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Thupten Phuntsog
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sheldon Morris
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christina Psaros
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Raphael Landovitz
- UCLA Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - K Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - David J Moore
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street Suite A, San Diego, CA, USA.
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17
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Qin Y, Price C, Rutledge R, Puglisi L, Madden LM, Meyer JP. Women's Decision-Making about PrEP for HIV Prevention in Drug Treatment Contexts. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 19:2325958219900091. [PMID: 31918605 PMCID: PMC7099671 DOI: 10.1177/2325958219900091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite pre-exposure prophylaxis’s (PrEP) efficacy for HIV prevention, uptake has been
low among women with substance use disorders (SUDs) and attributed to women’s lack of
awareness. In semistructured interviews with 20 women with SUD and 15 key stakeholders at
drug treatment centers, we assessed PrEP awareness and health-related decision-making.
Women often misestimated their own HIV risk and were not aware of PrEP as a personally
relevant option. Although women possessed key decision-making skills, behavior was
ultimately shaped by their level of motivation to engage in HIV prevention. Motivation was
challenged by competing priorities, minimization of perceived risk, and anticipated
stigma. Providers were familiar but lacked experience with PrEP and were concerned about
women’s abilities to action plan in early recovery. HIV prevention for women with SUD
should focus on immediately intervenable targets such as making PrEP meaningful to women
and pursuing long-term systemic changes in policy and culture. Efforts can be facilitated
by partnering with drug treatment centers to reach women and implement PrEP
interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilu Qin
- Internal Medicine Primary Care Residency Program, HIV Training Track, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carolina Price
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ronnye Rutledge
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisa Puglisi
- Department of Medicine, Section of General Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lynn M Madden
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,APT Foundation Inc, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jaimie P Meyer
- AIDS Program, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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18
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Baldwin A, Light B, Allison WE. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV Infection in Cisgender and Transgender Women in the U.S.: A Narrative Review of the Literature. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:1713-1728. [PMID: 34075504 PMCID: PMC8213571 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01903-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Using a socioecological approach, this review describes the peer-reviewed literature on oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among both cisgender (cis women) and transgender women (trans women) in the U.S. A search of the PubMed database and HIV-related conference abstracts generated over 2,200 articles and abstracts. Of these, 103 fulfilled review inclusion criteria. Most of the existing research presents findings on individual-level factors associated with PrEP use such as willingness and perceived barriers. There was far less investigation of factors related to PrEP at more distal ecological levels. Though trans women are at greater risk of HIV infection than cisgender women, less is known about this population group with respect to PrEP despite their inclusion in many major clinical trials. Further, the literature is characterized by a persistent conflation of sex and gender which makes it difficult to accurately assess the reviewed research on HIV prevention and PrEP apart from risk group. Informed by these findings, we highlight specific opportunities to improve access to PrEP and reduce socioecological barriers to PrEP care engagement for cisgender and transgender women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleta Baldwin
- Department of Public Health, California State University, Sacramento, Solano Hall 3014, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA, 95819, USA.
| | - Brenda Light
- School of Nursing, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Waridibo E Allison
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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19
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JOHNSON LM, GREEN HD, KOCH B, STOCKMAN JK, FELSHER M, ROTH AM, WAGNER KD. Role of Social Networks and Social Norms in Future PrEP Use in a Racially Diverse Sample of At-Risk Women and Members of Their Social Networks. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:422-429. [PMID: 33196549 PMCID: PMC9276301 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in reducing the risk of HIV infection, uptake remains low among many who are most vulnerable to HIV, such as Black and Latinx women. Interventions that target social networks to encourage at-risk women to initiate PrEP are underused. DESIGN This study used an egocentric network design and sampled Black/African American and Latinx women at risk of HIV as well as people from their social networks (N = 211) in a small, western city. METHODS Multivariable generalized linear mixed effects regression models investigated individual-level and network-level characteristics associated with likely future PrEP use. RESULTS PrEP awareness was low, but once informed, 36% considered themselves likely to take it in the future. Perceived risk of HIV, perceived barriers to HIV testing, and participation in a 12-step program increased odds of anticipated PrEP use. A higher proportion of friends in one's network decreased odds of future PrEP use, whereas a higher proportion of network members who tested regularly for HIV increased odds of future PrEP use. A marginally significant interaction was detected between proportion of friends in one's network and proportion of the network perceived to test for HIV regularly (ie, testing norms). When HIV testing norms were low, a higher proportion of friends in the network decreased odds of likely PrEP use. However, this effect was reversed in contexts with strong testing norms. CONCLUSION Women who are interested in PrEP may be embedded within social and normative contexts that can foster or inhibit PrEP uptake.
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20
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Kimmel AL, Messersmith LJ, Bazzi AR, Sullivan MM, Boudreau J, Drainoni ML. Implementation of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for women of color: Perspectives from healthcare providers and staff from three clinical settings. JOURNAL OF HIV/AIDS & SOCIAL SERVICES 2021; 19:299-319. [PMID: 34456637 PMCID: PMC8386511 DOI: 10.1080/15381501.2021.1887038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Women of color (WOC) account for 83% of new HIV infections among women in the United States. While pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a safe, effective HIV prevention method for women, WOC are less likely to be prescribed PrEP than other populations. Guided by an implementation science research framework, we investigated the implementation of a PrEP initiative for WOC in a US city with high HIV incidence. Across three clinical sites, only three WOC were prescribed PrEP after one year. Analysis of qualitative interviews with clinic staff and providers identified time constraints, reluctance to prescribe PrEP, and discomfort with counseling as implementation barriers. Implementation facilitators included staff and leadership support for PrEP, alignment of PrEP services with organizational missions, and having a centralized PrEP Coordinator. By addressing these identified implementation barriers and facilitators, clinic staff and providers can ensure that WOC are provided with the full range of HIV prevention options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison L. Kimmel
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisa J. Messersmith
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Angela R. Bazzi
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Jacqueline Boudreau
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mari-Lynn Drainoni
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Evans Center for Implementation and Improvement Sciences, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, USA
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21
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Nydegger LA, Dickson-Gomez J, Ko Ko T. A Longitudinal, Qualitative Exploration of Perceived HIV Risk, Healthcare Experiences, and Social Support as Facilitators and Barriers to PrEP Adoption Among Black Women. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:582-591. [PMID: 32886220 PMCID: PMC7855297 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03015-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Black women contract HIV at much higher rates than White or Hispanic women. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an underutilized prevention tool among this population. We sought to determine participants' interest in PrEP and facilitators and barriers to PrEP adoption. This longitudinal, qualitative study included 30 Black women (Mage = 32.2) interviewed 4 times over 6 months. Most participants had never heard of PrEP and a majority expressed initial interest. Barriers to PrEP initiation included low perceived HIV risk, medical mistrust, provider experiences and knowledge, negative reactions from family and friends, low perceived efficacy to adherence, and transportation. This study demonstrated actual, rather than hypothetical, PrEP interest and attitudes among Black women, and the barriers that arose over time during the study. PrEP awareness needs to be promoted among Black women and medical providers. Future research should address individual risk perception, medical mistrust, increasing social support, and decreasing transportation barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesl A Nydegger
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, 2109 San Jacinto Blvd., Ste. 718, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
| | - Julia Dickson-Gomez
- Department of Epidemiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Thant Ko Ko
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Abrams JA, Odlum M, Tillett E, Haley D, Justman J, Hodder S, Vo L, O'Leary A, Frew PM. Strategies for increasing impact, engagement, and accessibility in HIV prevention programs: suggestions from women in urban high HIV burden counties in the Eastern United States (HPTN 064). BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1340. [PMID: 32883248 PMCID: PMC7469400 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09426-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Merely having the tools to end HIV is insufficient. Effectively ending the epidemic necessitates addressing barriers that impede engagement in biomedical and behavioral prevention and wide scale implementation and utilization of existing interventions. This qualitative study identifies suggestions for increasing access to, engagement in, and impact of HIV prevention among women living in cities in high HIV burden counties in the eastern US. METHODS Data analyzed for the current study were collected via a qualitative sub-study within the HIV Prevention Trials Network Study 064 (HPTN 064), a multisite observational cohort study designed to estimate HIV incidence among women residing in communities with elevated HIV prevalence who also reported personal or partner characteristics associated with increased risk of HIV acquisition. Focus group and interview participants in the qualitative sub-study (N = 288) were from four cities in the eastern US. RESULTS Thematic analyses revealed four themes describing women's most frequently stated ideas for improving prevention efforts: 1) Promote Multilevel Empowerment, 2) Create Engaging Program Content, 3) Build "Market Demand", and 4) Ensure Accessibility. We conducted additional analyses to identify contradictory patterns in the data, which revealed an additional three themes: 1) Address Structural Risk Factors, 2) Increase Engagement via Pleasure Promotion, 3) Expand Awareness of and Access to Prevention Resources. CONCLUSIONS Findings may be useful for enhancing women's engagement in and uptake of behavioral and biomedical HIV prevention resources, improving policy, and addressing multilevel risk factors. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00995176 , prospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine A Abrams
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, 801 Massachusetts Avenue (Crosstown Center), Rm 434, Boston, MA, 02118, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Michelle Odlum
- Columbia University School of Nursing, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily Tillett
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Danielle Haley
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, 801 Massachusetts Avenue (Crosstown Center), Rm 434, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Jessica Justman
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sally Hodder
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Linda Vo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ann O'Leary
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Paula M Frew
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Population Health & Health Equity Initiative, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
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23
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Teitelman AM, Chittamuru D, Koblin BA, Davis A, Brawner BM, Fiore D, Broomes T, Ortiz G, Lucy D, Tieu HV. Beliefs Associated with Intention to Use PrEP Among Cisgender U.S. Women at Elevated HIV Risk. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2213-2221. [PMID: 32270399 PMCID: PMC7321894 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01681-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Women comprise 19% of those newly diagnosed with HIV in the U.S. There is a wide gap between recommended use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and actual uptake among women who are eligible for PrEP. In order to identify women's beliefs and intentions about starting PrEP, a survey, informed by the reasoned action approach, was administered to 160 cisgender PrEP-eligible women, age 18-55, in Philadelphia and New York City. The mean age was 40.2 years (SD = 11.78), 44% had completed high school, 75% were unemployed, and 85% experienced financial instability in the past 3 months. Multivariate linear regression analyses identified sets of behavioral and normative beliefs associated with intention to start PrEP in the next 3 months. Behavioral beliefs reflected views about PrEP benefits such as preventing HIV, and normative beliefs reflected perceptions of support or lack thereof from others including partners, friends, mother, and children. These findings can be used to inform interventions to foster greater PrEP uptake among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Teitelman
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Fagin Hall, Room 483L, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4217, USA.
| | - Deepti Chittamuru
- Public Health Department, University of California-Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | | | - Annet Davis
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Fagin Hall, Room 483L, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4217, USA
| | - Bridgette M Brawner
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Fagin Hall, Room 483L, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4217, USA
| | - Danielle Fiore
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Fagin Hall, Room 483L, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4217, USA
| | - Tarashon Broomes
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geneva Ortiz
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Debbie Lucy
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
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Social Networks and Its Impact on Women's Awareness, Interest, and Uptake of HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Implications for Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:386-393. [PMID: 30570528 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, women represent less than 5% of all pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users. Social networks may promote and/or inhibit women's PrEP awareness, which could influence PrEP intentions. Furthermore, women experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) may have smaller, less supportive networks, which could deter or have no impact on PrEP care engagement. This study examined associations between network characteristics and women's PrEP awareness, interest, uptake, and perceived candidacy and analyzed IPV as an effect modifier. SETTING/METHODS From 2017 to 2018, data were collected from a prospective cohort study of 218 PrEP-eligible women with (n = 94) and without (n = 124) IPV experiences in Connecticut. Women completed surveys on demographics, IPV, social networks, and PrEP care continuum outcomes. RESULTS Adjusted analyses showed that PrEP awareness related to having more PrEP-aware alters. PrEP intentions related to having more alters with favorable opinions of women's potential PrEP use and a smaller network size. Viewing oneself as an appropriate PrEP candidate related to having more PrEP-aware alters and more alters with favorable opinions of women's potential PrEP use. IPV modified associations between network characteristics and PrEP care. Having members who were aware of and/or used PrEP was positively associated with PrEP care engagement for women without IPV experiences but had either no effect or the opposite effect for women experiencing IPV. CONCLUSION Improving PrEP attitudes might improve its utilization among women. Social network interventions might be one way to increase PrEP uptake among many US women but may not be as effective for women experiencing IPV.
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Brief Report: PrEP Eligibility Among At-Risk Women in the Southern United States: Associated Factors, Awareness, and Acceptability. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:527-532. [PMID: 30649036 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among women in the United States, non-Latina black women in the South have disproportionately high rates of new HIV infections but low use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Effective strategies to identify factors associated with PrEP eligibility could facilitate improved screening, offering, and uptake of PrEP among US women at risk of HIV. SETTING AND METHODS We applied 2014 CDC criteria for PrEP use to at-risk HIV-negative women enrolled in the Southern US sites (Atlanta, Chapel Hill, Birmingham/Jackson, Miami) of the Women's Interagency HIV Study from 2014 to 2015 to estimate PrEP eligibility and assess PrEP knowledge and acceptability. Factors associated with PrEP eligibility were assessed using multivariable models. RESULTS Among 225 women, 72 (32%) were PrEP-eligible; the most common PrEP indicator was condomless sex. The majority of PrEP-eligible women (88%) reported willingness to consider PrEP. Only 24 (11%) PrEP-eligible women had previously heard of PrEP, and only 1 reported previous use. Education level less than high school [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.56; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22 to 5.37], history of sexual violence (aOR 4.52; 95% CI: 1.52 to 17.76), and medium to high self-perception of HIV risk (aOR 6.76; 95% CI: 3.26 to 14.05) were significantly associated with PrEP eligibility in adjusted models. CONCLUSIONS Extremely low PrEP awareness and use despite a high proportion of eligibility and acceptability signify a critical need to enhance PrEP education and delivery for women in this region. Supplementing CDC eligibility criteria with questions about history of sexual violence and HIV risk self-assessment may enhance PrEP screening and uptake among US women.
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Tolley EE, Li S, Zangeneh SZ, Atujuna M, Musara P, Justman J, Pathak S, Bekker L, Swaminathan S, Stanton J, Farrior J, Sista N. Acceptability of a long-acting injectable HIV prevention product among US and African women: findings from a phase 2 clinical Trial (HPTN 076). J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25408. [PMID: 31651098 PMCID: PMC6813716 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25408] [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: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High HIV incidence and low adherence to daily oral PrEP among women underscore the need for more acceptable and easier to use HIV prevention products. Global demand for injectable contraception suggests that new, long-acting, injectable formulations could meet this need. We examine acceptability of a long-acting injectable PrEP among HIV-uninfected women in Zimbabwe, South Africa and two United States phase 2 trial sites. METHODS Quantitative surveys were administered at the first, fourth and sixth injection visits. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted after the sixth injection visit. We compared the acceptability of injectable product attributes, prevention preferences and future interest in injectable PrEP by site and arm and ran longitudinal ordinal logistic regression models to identify determinants of future interest in injectable PrEP. RESULTS Between April 2015 and February 2017, the trial enrolled 136 (100 African, 36 US) women with a median age of 31 years. Most participants (>75%) rated injectable attributes as very acceptable. While few reported rash or other side effects, 56% to 67% reported injection pain, with nonsignificant differences over time and between arms. During FGDs, participants described initial fear of the injectable and variable experiences with pain. Most US and African participants preferred injectable PrEP to daily oral pills (56% to 96% vs. 4% to 25%). Future interest in using injectable PrEP was associated with acceptability of product attributes and was higher in African than US sites. In FGDs, participants described multiple reasons for trial participation, including a combination of monetary, health-related and altruistic motivations. While associated with future interest in use in univariate models, neither altruistic nor personal motivations remained significant in the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS This study found that long-acting injectable PrEP is acceptable among African and US women experiencing product use. Acceptability of product attributes better predicted future interest in injectable use than experience of pain. This is reassuring as a single-dose regimen of a different product has advanced to phase 3 trials. Finally, the study suggests that future demand for an injectable PrEP by women may be greater in African than US settings, where the risk of HIV is highest.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sue Li
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease DivisionFred HutchSeattleWAUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Subash Pathak
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease DivisionFred HutchSeattleWAUSA
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Interest in Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV is Limited Among Women in a General Obstetrics & Gynecology Setting. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2741-2748. [PMID: 31065923 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02529-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an important tool for reducing the risk of HIV acquisition, but identifying eligible and interested female patients remains difficult. We collected 144 surveys at urban Obstetrics & Gynecology clinics in Louisiana to assess interest in PrEP. Study participants were predominantly African-American (61.8%) and 45.1% had incomes of less than $20,000 per year. 84.7% of participants estimated their risk of HIV acquisition to be low. Initial interest in PrEP was moderate at 37.5% of the population. Number of partners, condom use, and self-perceived risk of HIV acquisition were associated with initial interest. After receiving more information about side effects and compliance requirements, only four of 144 (7.8% of initially interested, 2.8% of total) women remained interested in using PrEP. Concern about side effects was the major barrier to persistent interest. Further study is needed to determine how best to identify PrEP candidates in Obstetrics & Gynecology settings.
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28
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Role of Preexposure Prophylaxis in the Reproductive Health of Women at Risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection. Obstet Gynecol 2019; 132:687-691. [PMID: 30095764 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000002801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Women in the United States and especially women of color continue to acquire human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. During reproductive health visits, health care providers are ideally positioned to assess HIV risk and offer HIV prevention strategies, including preexposure prophylaxis (also known as "PrEP"), a once-daily fixed-dose combination of emtricitabine with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use to prevent HIV acquisition in persons at risk. Family planning, pregnancy, and postpartum visits provide an opportunity to ask sensitive questions about sexual and reproductive health and to help women navigate preference-sensitive decisions, including an individualized plan for HIV prevention. Exposure to a fixed-dose combination of emtricitabine with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate during pregnancy and breastfeeding appears to be safe with respect to maternal and infant outcomes. This article reviews the critical issues, challenges, and opportunities when implementing preexposure prophylaxis for women at risk for HIV who are seeking family planning services or pregnancy or postpartum care.
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Bradley E, Forsberg K, Betts JE, DeLuca JB, Kamitani E, Porter SE, Sipe TA, Hoover KW. Factors Affecting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Implementation for Women in the United States: A Systematic Review. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2019; 28:1272-1285. [PMID: 31180253 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2018.7353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective pill that HIV-negative individuals can take once daily to prevent HIV infection. Although PrEP is a private, user-controlled method that empowers women to protect themselves without relying on a partner's behavior, women's PrEP use has been extremely low. We systematically reviewed the literature to identify and summarize factors that may be affecting PrEP implementation for women in the United States. We conducted a search of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis Project database (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL) and PubMed to identify peer-reviewed studies published between January 2000 and April 2018 that reported U.S. women's or health care providers' PrEP knowledge or awareness, willingness to use or prescribe, attitudes, barriers and facilitators to use or prescription, or PrEP adherence and discontinuation influences. Thirty-nine studies (26 women, 13 providers) met the eligibility criteria. In these studies, 0%-33% of women had heard of PrEP. Between 51% and 97% of women were willing to try PrEP, and 60%-92% of providers were willing to prescribe PrEP to women. Implementation barriers included access, cost, stigma, and medical distrust. Three studies addressed adherence or discontinuation. PrEP knowledge is low among women and providers. However, women and providers generally have positive views when aware of PrEP, including a willingness to use or prescribe PrEP to women. Most of the implementation barriers highlighted in studies were social or structural factors (e.g., access). Additional studies are needed to address research gaps, including studies of PrEP adherence and discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Bradley
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kaitlin Forsberg
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Julia B DeLuca
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emiko Kamitani
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sarah E Porter
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Theresa Ann Sipe
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Karen W Hoover
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Hynes JS, Sheth AN, Lathrop E, Sales JM, Haddad LB. Preferred Product Attributes of Potential Multipurpose Prevention Technologies for Unintended Pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections or HIV Among U.S. Women. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2019; 28:665-672. [PMID: 30615569 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2018.7001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Multipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) are being developed to simultaneously protect women from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or human immunodeficiency virus. This study aims to determine MPT characteristics desired by young women in the United States (U.S.). Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional national survey administered online by MTurk. Eligibility criteria included female sex, age 18-29 years, U.S. residence, and sexual activity with a male partner in the past 3 months. MPT characteristics were rated for importance. Odds ratios were generated to explore associations between demographics, sexual behaviors, and prior contraceptive use and likelihood of using various MPT formulations. Results: Of 835 women, the largest proportion reported being likely to use MPTs in the form of injectables (45.6%), followed by vaginal gels (33.7%), vaginal rings (26.3%) and diaphragms (17.3%). Women with prior experience using a specific method of contraception appeared more likely to try an MPT of the same form. Women concerned about STIs and unwanted pregnancy, or with a history of such undesirable outcomes, expressed higher likelihood of use for a broad range of products. Women indicated that safety and efficacy at preventing pregnancy were the most important product characteristics when choosing an MPT. Conclusions: MPTs in the form of injectables are most highly desired, but many women would use vaginal methods, highlighting the importance of developing different delivery methods. Women desire safety and emphasize contraceptive efficacy over infection prevention. MPT preferences must be considered during product development to promote future acceptance among young women in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna S Hynes
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Anandi N Sheth
- 2 Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eva Lathrop
- 3 Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Faculty Office Building, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jessica M Sales
- 4 Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lisa B Haddad
- 3 Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Faculty Office Building, Atlanta, Georgia
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Aaron E, Blum C, Seidman D, Hoyt MJ, Simone J, Sullivan M, Smith DK. Optimizing Delivery of HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis for Women in the United States. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2018; 32:16-23. [PMID: 29323558 PMCID: PMC5756936 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2017.0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention method; however, it is underutilized among women who are at risk for acquisition of HIV. Women comprise one in five HIV diagnoses in the United States, and significant racial disparities in new HIV diagnoses persist. The rate of new HIV diagnoses among black and African American women in 2015 was 16 times greater than that of white women. These disparities highlight the importance of HIV prevention strategies for women, including the use of PrEP. PrEP is the first highly effective HIV prevention method available to women that is entirely within their control. However, because so few women who may benefit from PrEP are aware of it, few women's healthcare providers offer PrEP to their patients, PrEP has not yet achieved its potential to reduce HIV infections in women. This article describes individual and systemic barriers for women related to the uptake of PrEP services; explains how providers can identify women at risk for HIV; reviews how to provide PrEP to women; and outlines client-centered models for HIV prevention services. Better access to culturally acceptable and affordable medical and social services may offer support to women for consistent and ongoing use of PrEP. This discussion may be used to inform HIV prevention activities for women and guide interventions to decrease racial/ethnic disparities in rates of HIV infection among US women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Aaron
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Division of ID/HIV Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Cori Blum
- Howard Brown Health Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dominika Seidman
- San Francisco General Hospital, University of California San Francisco, Department of OB/GYN, Reproductive Services, San Francisco, California
| | - Mary Jo Hoyt
- Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Center, School of Nursing, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Joanne Simone
- Francois-Xavier Bagnoud Center, School of Nursing, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Meg Sullivan
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dawn K. Smith
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Calabrese SK, Krakower DS, Mayer KH. Integrating HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Into Routine Preventive Health Care to Avoid Exacerbating Disparities. Am J Public Health 2017; 107:1883-1889. [PMID: 29048955 PMCID: PMC5678380 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2017.304061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
More than 3 decades since its emergence in the United States, HIV continues to spread and disproportionately affect socially marginalized groups. Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a highly effective prevention strategy federally approved since 2012, could fundamentally alter the course of the epidemic. However, PrEP's potential has not been fully realized, in part because health care providers have been slow to adopt PrEP in clinical practice and have been selective in their discussion of PrEP with patients. This nonstandardized approach has constrained PrEP access. PrEP access has not only been inadequate but also inequitable, with several groups in high need showing lower rates of uptake than do their socially privileged counterparts. Recognizing these early warning signs that current approaches to PrEP implementation could exacerbate existing HIV disparities, we call on health professionals to integrate PrEP into routine preventive health care for adult patients-particularly in primary care, reproductive health, and behavioral health settings. Drawing on the empirical literature, we present 4 arguments for why doing so would improve access and access equity, and we conclude that the benefits clearly outweigh the challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Calabrese
- Sarah K. Calabrese is with the Department of Psychology, George Washington University, Washington, DC. Douglas S. Krakower and Kenneth H. Mayer are with the Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Douglas S Krakower
- Sarah K. Calabrese is with the Department of Psychology, George Washington University, Washington, DC. Douglas S. Krakower and Kenneth H. Mayer are with the Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Sarah K. Calabrese is with the Department of Psychology, George Washington University, Washington, DC. Douglas S. Krakower and Kenneth H. Mayer are with the Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, and the Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston
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Goparaju L, Praschan NC, Warren-Jeanpiere L, Experton LS, Young MA, Kassaye S. Stigma, Partners, Providers and Costs: Potential Barriers to PrEP Uptake among US Women. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 8. [PMID: 29201531 PMCID: PMC5708581 DOI: 10.4172/2155-6113.1000730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) use has remained low among US women while significantly increasing among men who have sex with men. Besides lack of awareness, women face several social and structural barriers in gaining access to and using PrEP. Methods Four focus group discussions with 20 HIV-negative women who live in the Washington DC metropolitan area. Results The women expressed concerns about social and structural barriers to PrEP use. They were afraid that stigma related to using “HIV medicines” could affect PrEP use as well. They are worried that family and friends may question their reasons for taking anti-retrovirals and suspect that they were HIV-positive. They expected hostile reactions from male partners, including accusations of infidelity and introducing mistrust in their relationships. Communicating with health care providers about sexual matters in general and their need for PrEP in particular were identified as further barriers. Women reported that providers rarely ask about risk behaviors related to HIV acquisition; that short visits hinder establishing a trusting relationship to discuss sensitive matters. They were concerned that disclosure of risk behaviors may result in judgmental responses and harsh treatment from providers. Lastly, women were concerned that PrEP costs, including insurance coverage and copays, would keep PrEP out of their reach. While cognizant of the potential barriers, women were unwavering in their determination to find ways to circumvent challenges to PrEP access. Conclusion Social and structural barriers may impede women's access to PrEP despite their own reported interest. Continued efforts to reduce HIV stigma, improve patient-provider relationships and ensure affordability of PrEP may increase the likelihood that women will use this important prevention modality.
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Hill BS, Patel VV, Haughton LJ, Blackstock OJ. Leveraging Social Media to Explore Black Women's Perspectives on HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2017; 29:107-114. [PMID: 28709753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2017.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Dubourg G, Raoult D. The challenges of preexposure prophylaxis for bacterial sexually transmitted infections. Clin Microbiol Infect 2016; 22:753-756. [PMID: 27585939 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2016.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV is currently the subject of great interest, as clinical trials have shown high efficacy in terms of decreasing transmission among men who have sex with men. Because the prevalence of bacterial sexual transmitted infections (STIs) is increasing within this community, a recent pilot study demonstrated the efficacy of reducing transmission of bacterial STIs by administering PrEP with daily doxycycline to men who have sex with men. This creative initiative raises several questions which are discussed in this review. Relevant information should be drawn from the huge amount of available epidemiologic data to identify those who could benefit from such prophylactic treatment. The choice of antimicrobial agents is crucial, as antimicrobial susceptibility of STI agents is heterogeneous. Finally, we discuss challenges to improve the control of STIs through the use of PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Dubourg
- Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Timone University Hospital Centre, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, France; Université Aix-Marseille, Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE) UM 63 CNRS 7278 IRD 198 INSERM U1095, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Marseille, France.
| | - D Raoult
- Pôle des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Clinique et Biologique, Fédération de Bactériologie-Hygiène-Virologie, Timone University Hospital Centre, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire (IHU) Méditerranée Infection, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, France; Université Aix-Marseille, Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes (URMITE) UM 63 CNRS 7278 IRD 198 INSERM U1095, Facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Marseille, France
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