Caring for women living with HIV: gaps in the evidence

Factors influencing the health-related quality of life of older men and women living with HIV in Spain

The number of older people living with HIV (OPLHIV) is increasing worldwide. However, little is known about the factors that better predict their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We administered the validated WHOQoL-HIV BREF questionnaire to 247 Spanish OPLHIV (192 men and 55 women). In addition to the six domains of the questionnaire, we constructed a seventh domain as theaverage of punctuations of all domains. Multivariable Poisson regression models with robust estimates by sex were constructed for the seven domains (14 in total). The best-subset selection method together with Mallow's Cp metric was used to select the model factors. The percentage of variability explained by Poisson models ranged from15-38% for men and 29-70% for women. The analysis showed that women were most affected by ageing (four domains), mobility impairments (five domains), and mental disorders (five domains). The factors with the greatest negative influence on men were heterosexuality (six domains), mental disorders (six domains), being single (five domains), and poverty risk (three domains). Physical activity was found to improve HRQoL in both men (six domains) and women (four domains). Future OPLHIV programmes would benefit from considering sex specific HRQoL factors. This could also improve the cost-effectiveness of interventions.

Clinical characteristics of women with HIV in the RESPOND cohort: A descriptive analysis and comparison to men

BACKGROUND

Women with HIV are globally underrepresented in clinical research. Existing studies often focus on reproductive outcomes, seldom focus on older women, and are often underpowered to assess sex/gender differences. We describe CD4, HIV viral load (VL), clinical characteristics, comorbidity burden, and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) among women with HIV in the RESPOND study and compare them with those of the men in RESPOND.

METHODS

RESPOND is a prospective, multi-cohort collaboration including over 34 000 people with HIV from across Europe and Australia. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including CD4/VL, comorbidity burden, and ART are presented at baseline, defined as the latter of 1 January 2012 or enrolment into the local cohort, stratified by age and sex/gender. We further stratify men by reported mode of HIV acquisition, men who have sex with men (MSM) and non-MSM.

RESULTS

Women account for 26.0% (n = 9019) of the cohort, with a median age of 42.2 years (interquartile range [IQR] 34.7-49.1). The majority (59.3%) of women were white, followed by 30.3% Black. Most women (75.8%) had acquired HIV heterosexually and 15.9% via injecting drug use. Nearly half (44.8%) were receiving a boosted protease inhibitor, 31.4% a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, and 7.8% an integrase strand transfer inhibitor. The baseline year was 2012 for 73.2% of women and >2019 for 4.2%. Median CD4 was 523 (IQR 350-722) cells/μl, and 73.6% of women had a VL <200 copies/mL. Among the ART-naïve population, women were more likely than MSM but less likely than non-MSM (p < 0.001) to have CD4 <200 cells/μL and less likely than both MSM and non-MSM (p < 0.001) to have VL ≥100 000 copies/mL. Women were also more likely to be free of comorbidity than were both MSM and non-MSM (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

RESPOND women are diverse in age, ethnicity/race, CD4/VL, and comorbidity burden, with important differences relative to men. This work highlights the importance of stratification by sex/gender for future research that may help improve screening and management guidelines specifically for women with HIV.

Dissemination of the Women-Centred HIV Care Model: A Multimodal Process and Evaluation

BACKGROUND

Using data from a national cohort study and focus groups, the Women-Centred HIV Care (WCHC) Model was developed to inform care delivery for women living with HIV.

METHODS

Through an evidence-based, integrated knowledge translation approach, we developed 2 toolkits based on the WCHC Model for service providers and women living with HIV in English and French (Canada's national languages). To disseminate, we distributed printed advertising materials, hosted 3 national webinars and conducted 2 virtual capacity-building training series.

RESULTS

A total of 315 individuals attended the webinars, and the average WCHC knowledge increased by 29% (SD 4.3%). In total, 131 service providers engaged in 22 virtual capacity-building training sessions with 21 clinical cases discussed. Learners self-reported increased confidence in 15/15 abilities, including the ability to provide WCHC. As of December 2023, the toolkits were downloaded 7766 times.

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully developed WCHC toolkits and shared them with diverse clinical and community audiences through various dissemination methods.

"Discrimination is harder to live with than the disease": an interview study of the perceptions and experiences of sexual and reproductive health and rights among women living with HIV in Sweden

Around 40% of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Sweden are women. However, little is known about their experiences, particularly those related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). This study aims to explore perceptions and experiences of SRHR among women living with HIV (LWH). Twelve interviews were conducted with women LWH from September to October 2019 and analysed using thematic analysis. The central theme describing participants' experiences of social relationships, intimate encounters and reproductive life, "Discrimination is harder to live with than the disease itself", is based on three themes that contain subthemes. Theme 1 describes how participants reconsider and reorient their sexual and reproductive life after diagnosis. Theme 2 highlights how (mis)perceptions of HIV affect sexual and reproductive life and lead to abusive treatment and internalisation. Theme 3 describes a paradoxical shift of responsibilities where participants experience being compelled to take greater responsibility in some situations and stripped of the right to decide in others. This study suggests that despite notable progress in HIV treatment, stigma and discrimination stemming from outdated beliefs and (mis)conceptions, ambiguous policies and guidelines, and unequal access to information affect SRHR experiences of women LWH more than the virus itself. The results emphasise the need to: update knowledge within healthcare settings and among the public; clarify ambiguous legislations and guidelines; ensure equal access to information to enable all women LWH to take informed decisions, make fully informed choices and realise their SRHR; and consider the diversity of women LWH and enable shared decision-making.

Reproductive health syndemics impact retention in care among women living with HIV in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Syndemic psychosocial and reproductive factors affecting women's retention in HIV care remain understudied. We analyzed correlates of non-retention in a cohort of women with HIV in Brazil from 2000‒2015. Participants self-reported exposure to physical/sexual violence, illicit drug use, adolescent pregnancy, or induced abortion. Lifetime history of these psychosocial stressors were used to create a syndemic score based on the presence or absence of these conditions. All dichotomous variables were summed (range 0 to 4), with greater scores indicating more syndemic factors experienced. Logistic regression models identified predictors of non-retention, defined as < 2 HIV viral load or CD4 results within the first year of enrollment. Of 915 women, non-retention was observed for 18%. Prevalence of syndemic factors was adolescent pregnancy (53.2%), physical/sexual violence (38.3%), induced abortion (27.3%), and illicit drug use (17.2%); 41.2% experienced ≥ 2 syndemic conditions. Syndemic scores of 2 and 3 were associated with non-retention, as well as low education, years with HIV and seroprevalent syphilis. Psychosocial and reproductive syndemics can limit women's retention in HIV care. Syphilis infection predicted non-retention and could be explored as a syndemic factor in future studies.

Effect of aging on immune cells in male HIV-infected and -uninfected healthy individuals

OBJECTIVE

HIV induces immunologic dysfunction in T cells of infected individuals. However, the impact of aging on T cell phenotypes in HIV-infected individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) has not been fully delineated. We evaluated the relationship between aging and the expression of immune activation and exhaustion markers on CD8 + T cells of age-matched HIV-infected and -uninfected male participants.

DESIGN

Levels of immune activation and exhaustion markers on peripheral blood CD8 + T cells of HIV-infected and -uninfected participants were examined.

METHODS

110 HIV-infected aviremic male participants receiving ART and 146 HIV-uninfected male participants were studied. The levels of TIGIT, PD-1, CD38, and CD226 on CD8 + T cells of the study participants were determined by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The level of TIGIT on CD8 + T cells was higher in aviremic HIV-infected compared to uninfected participants ( P  < 0.0001). In contrast, no significant differences were found in the levels of PD-1 and CD38 on CD8 + T cells between the two groups. Statistically significant correlations were observed between age and the levels of TIGIT + and CD38 + CD8 + T cells in both groups; however, no correlation was found between age and the level of PD-1 + CD8 + T cells in HIV-infected participants. Age-stratification of HIV-infected and -uninfected groups did not show any significant differences in the level of PD-1 expression on CD8 + T cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of our study highlight the role of aging in the expression of immune markers on CD8 + T cells and have important implications for therapies that target immune checkpoints in HIV-infected individuals.

Glucocorticoid Receptor Function and Cognitive Performance in Women With HIV

OBJECTIVE

Alterations in glucocorticoid receptor (GCR) function may be a risk factor for cognitive complications among older people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We evaluated whether HIV serostatus and age modify the GCR function-cognition association among women.

METHODS

Eighty women with HIV ( n = 40, <40 years of age [younger]; n = 40, >50 years of age [older]) and 80 HIV-uninfected women ( n = 40 older, n = 40 younger) enrolled in the Women's Interagency HIV Study completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected concurrent with neuropsychological testing were assessed for GCR function. Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to examine whether a) HIV serostatus and age were associated with GCR function, and b) GCR function-cognition associations are moderated by HIV serostatus and age adjusting for relevant covariates.

RESULTS

Among older women, higher baseline FKBP5 expression level was associated with lower attention/working memory performance among women with HIV ( B = 6.4, standard error = 1.7, p = .0003) but not in women without HIV infection ( B = -1.7, standard error = 1.9, p = .37). There were no significant HIV serostatus by age interactions on dexamethasone (DEX)-stimulated expression of the genes regulated by the GCR or lipopolysaccharide-stimulated tumor necrosis factor α levels (with or without DEX stimulation; p values > .13). HIV serostatus was associated with GC target genes PER1 ( p = .006) and DUSP1 ( p = .02), but not TSC22D3 ( p = .32), after DEX stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these data suggest that HIV serostatus and age may modify the influence of the GCR, such that the receptor is likely engaged to a similar extent, but the downstream influence of the receptor is altered, potentially through epigenetic modification of target genes.

Women-centred HIV care: a scoping review to understand the current state of service delivery for women living with HIV globally

Women living with HIV (WLWH) face unique barriers and require specialized, integrated care that focuses on women's specific needs. We conducted a scoping review to examine factors important for a women-centred HIV care (WCHC) approach. We included published peer-reviewed articles which featured WCHC services as their central focus; included study populations of girls and WLWH aged 14 years of age or older; and contributed to the understanding of WCHC for WLWH. Seven databases were reviewed and yielded 15,332 references, of which 21 fit our inclusion criteria for the scoping review. Research findings were categorized into characteristics of the study, recommendations, and target audiences. Findings revealed WCHC as care which includes the involvement of WLWH in decisions; person-centred integrated care; integrated services including mental health; sexual and reproductive health services; trauma-informed and safe space practices; healthcare provider training; and women's care self-management. In general, current systems of care do not meet the unique needs of WLWH.

Prevalence of Physical Health, Mental Health, and Disability Comorbidities among Women Living with HIV in Canada

Life expectancy for people living with HIV has increased, but management of HIV is now more complex due to comorbidities. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of comorbidities among women living with HIV in Canada. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the 18-months survey (2014−2016) of the Canadian HIV Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study (CHIWOS). Self-report of diagnosed conditions was used to measure lifetime prevalence of chronic physical conditions, current mental health conditions, and disabilities. We examined frequency of overlapping conditions and prevalence stratified by gender identity, ethnicity, and age. Among 1039 participants, 70.1% reported a physical health diagnosis, 57.4% reported a current mental health diagnosis, 19.9% reported a disability, and 47.1% reported both physical and mental health comorbidities. The most prevalent comorbidities were depression (32.3%), anxiety (29.5%), obesity (26.7%, defined as body mass index >30 kg/m2), asthma/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (23.3%), sleep disorder (22.0%), drug addiction (21.9%), and arthritis/osteoarthritis (20.9%). These results highlight the complexity of HIV care and the important prevalence of comorbidities. Personalized health care that integrates care and prevention of all comorbidities with HIV, with attention to social determinants of health, is necessary to optimize health and well-being of women living with HIV.

Intention to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine by HIV Status Among a Population-Based Sample of Women and Gender Diverse Individuals in British Columbia, Canada

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for people living with HIV (PLWH), among whom social inequities and co-morbidities may drive risks of COVID-19 infection and outcome severity. Among a provincial (British Columbia) sample, we determined the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine intention by HIV status and assessed socio-demographic, vaccine hesitancy, and psychological predictors of vaccine intention. Individuals (25-69 years) recruited from province-wide research cohorts and the general public completed an online survey examining COVID-19 impacts (August/2020-March/2021). In an analysis restricted to women and gender diverse participants (n = 5588), we compared intention to receive a recommended COVID-19 vaccine (Very likely/Likely vs Neutral/Unlikely/Very Unlikely) by self-reported HIV status. Logistic regression models assessed the independent effect of HIV status and other factors on COVID-19 vaccine intention. Of 5588 participants, 69 (1.2%) were living with HIV, of whom 79.7% were on antiretroviral therapy. In bivariate analyses, intention to vaccinate was significantly lower among PLWH compared to participants not living with HIV (65.2% vs 79.6%; OR 0.44; 95%CI 0.32-0.60). However, this association was not statistically significant after adjustment for ethnicity, income, education, and essential worker status (aOR 0.85; 95%CI 0.48-1.55). Among PLWH, those with greater vaccine confidence, positive attitudes towards the COVID-19 vaccine, and more strongly influenced by direct and indirect social norms to vaccinate had significantly higher odds of vaccine intention. Tailored messaging is needed to build vaccine confidence, address questions about vaccine benefits, and support informed vaccination decision-making to promote COVID-19 vaccine uptake among women and gender diverse people living with HIV.

Difference in the neurocognitive functions of WLWH and MLWH in an Italian cohort of people living with HIV

Based on the available literature, women living with HIV (WLWH) seem to show greater cognitive and emotional disadvantages than men living with HIV (MLWH). Our aim was to compare the cognitive performance of MLWH and WLWH in an Italian cohort of People Living With HIV (PLWH) and to analyse factors potentially contributing to sex differences in cognitive function. We ran a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of a monocentric dataset of PLWH who were administered a standardized neuropsychological test battery (SNB) during routine clinical care. We enrolled 161 Italian PLWH who are on combined antiretroviral therapy (cART): 114 (70.8%) MLWH and 47 (29.2%) WLWH.

Global cognitive performance (composite z score) (GCP) was significantly higher in MLWH than WLWH [mean 0.19 (SD 0.85) vs − 0.13 (SD 0.96); p = 0.039]. Moreover, WLWH obtained significantly higher scores on the Zung Depression Scale than MLWH [mean 41.8 (SD 10.9) vs 36.7 (SD 9.2); p = 0.003]. However, there was no statistically significant direct effect between male sex and better GCP (p = 0.692) in the context of a mediation model. On the contrary, the associations between male sex and better GCP were mediated by higher level of education (a*b =  + 0.15, Bootstrap CI95 = 0.05 and 0.27) and a lower Zung depression score (a*b =  + 0.10, Bootstrap CI95 = 0.02 and 0.21).

In conclusion, the global cognitive performance of WLWH is lower than that of MLWH. However, other demographic and clinical factors besides sex might help explain differences in their neurocognitive functions and make it possible for us to monitor them and identify those patients most in need.

Sex differences and adverse events of antiretrovirals in people living with HIV/AIDS: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

INTRODUCTION

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV/AIDS is associated with adverse events (AEs). However, little is known about the differences in the risk of AEs between women and men living with HIV/AIDS. This study aims to determine (1) whether there are sex differences in the risk of AEs in people with HIV/AIDS treated with ART and (2) the prevalence of AEs to the reproductive system and bone mineral density in women.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This systematic review (SR) will include randomised trials evaluating ART in people living with HIV/AIDS with at least 12 weeks of duration follow-up. Searches will be conducted in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Epistemonikos, Lilacs, trial registries and grey literature databases, without restriction on publication status, year of publication and language. The primary outcome will be the risk of ART discontinuation or drop-outs/withdrawals of ART due to AEs and the number of any treatment-emergent AE. The secondary outcomes are the incidence of serious clinic or laboratory (grade 3 and/or 4) treatment-emergent AEs, hospitalisation, death and AEs specific to the reproductive system and bone mineral density (osteoporosis, osteopenia and fractures) of women. Selection, data extraction and quality assessment will be performed by pairs of reviewers. Cochrane collaboration tools will be used to assess the risk of bias. If appropriate, a meta-analysis will be conducted to synthesise results. The overall quality of the evidence for each outcome will be determined by the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The results of this SR will assist the formulation of public policies aimed at the management and monitoring of AEs of ART in people living with HIV/AIDS. A deliberative dialogue will be scheduled with the Department of Chronic Conditions and Sexually Transmitted Infections of Brazil's Ministry of Health to align the project with policymakers' interests.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021251051.

Low sexual function is associated with menopausal status in mid-aged women with human immunodeficiency virus infection

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between menopausal status and female sexual function among mid-aged women with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

METHODS

We carried out a cross-sectional study of 221 sexually active HIV-infected women ages 40 to 59 years, based on a secondary analysis of a three-hospital survey in Lima, Perú. We classified menopausal status according to Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop criteria (STRAW+10); this exposure variable was categorized as binary (non-postmenopausal and postmenopausal) and-for exploratory analysis-as multinomial (pre-, peri-, and postmenopausal). We defined low sexual function (LSF) using the 6-item Female Sexual Function Index (total score ≤19). Socio-demographic and clinical variables were assessed, including age, used highly active antiretroviral therapy scheme, disease duration, depressive symptoms, and co-morbidities. We performed Poisson generalized linear models with a robust variance to estimate 95% confidence interval (CI), crude prevalence ratios (cPRs), and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) by epidemiological and statistical approaches using nonparametric method of bias-corrected and accelerated bootstrap resampling with 1,000 repetitions.

RESULTS

Studied women had a median age of 47.0 years (interquartile range: 7.5); 25.3% were premenopausal, 25.8% were perimenopausal, and 48.9% were postmenopausal. Also, 64.3% had LSF. The frequency of LSF was 53.6% in non-postmenopausal and 75.0% in postmenopausal women. Postmenopausal status was associated with LSF in both the crude (cPR = 1.39; 95% CI: 1.13-1.71) and the adjusted regression models (aPR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.12-1.71).

CONCLUSIONS

HIV-infected postmenopausal women have a higher prevalence of LSF than those non-postmenopausal ones, even when adjusting for multiple potential confounders.

Assessing comorbidities and survival in HIV-infected and uninfected matched Medicare enrollees

OBJECTIVE

People with HIV infection experience excessive mortality compared with their noninfected counterparts. It is unclear whether the impact of HIV infection on mortality varies by comorbidities or whether sex difference exists in this relationship. This study assessed the effect of newly diagnosed HIV infection on overall mortality among Medicare beneficiaries for both disabled and older adults (≥65 years old) based on their original entitlement.

METHODS

We constructed a retrospective matched cohort using a 5% nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries between 1996 and 2015. People with incident HIV diagnoses were individually matched to up to three controls based on demographics. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for baseline demographics and comorbidities were used to assess the effect of HIV status on survival among four disabled groups by sex strata. Within each stratum, interactions between comorbidity variables and HIV status were examined.

RESULTS

People with HIV, especially older women, had a higher prevalence of baseline comorbidities than controls. HIV--mortality association varied according to sex in older adults (P = 0.004). Comorbidity--HIV interactions were more pronounced in disabled groups (P < 0.0001). People with HIV with more chronic conditions had a less pronounced increase in the risk of death than those with fewer conditions, compared with uninfected controls.

CONCLUSION

Medicare enrollees with newly diagnosed HIV had more prevalent baseline comorbidities and were at higher risk of death than people without HIV. HIV infection has a more pronounced effect among those with fewer comorbidities. Sex differences in HIV--mortality association exist among older Medicare enrollees.

Time spent with HIV-RNA ≤ 200 copies/ml in a cohort of people with HIV during the U=U era

OBJECTIVE

Zero risk of linked HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples when the HIV-infected partner had viral load less than 200 copies/ml ('U status') was found in observational studies. We aimed at estimating the proportion of time in which 'U status' was maintained and identifying factors associated with the risk of losing it.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

METHODS

We included participants in the ICONA cohort who had reached an established 'U status' (viral load ≤200 copies/ml for >6 months) as of December 2010. The outcome was the number of person-days of follow-up (PDFU) above a viral load greater than 200 copies/ml, relative to the total number of PDFU observed. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors independently associated with the risk of losing 'U status'.

RESULTS

Eight thousand, two hundred and forty-one persons living with HIV were included in the analysis who contributed 2 670 888 PDFU. Of these, 1648 (20%) were women, 768 (9%) were people who inject drugs (PWID), and 2066 (25%) were foreign-born. The median of viral load measurements was 9 (IQR: 4-15). Overall, only 3.1% of PDFU were observed when viral load was above 200 copies/ml. The proportion of PDFU with viral load more than 200 copies/ml was higher than average in women (5.3%), unemployed (5.4%), PWID (4.7%), and in people with more than three previous virologic failures (6.3%). These variables were significant predictors of losing 'U status' in the multivariable logistic regression.

CONCLUSION

Our results reinforce the validity of the U=U message in real-world setting. However, we identified subsets of our study population at higher risk of losing the 'U status' for whom additional efforts are needed.

Awareness and Understanding of HIV Non-disclosure Case Law and the Role of Healthcare Providers in Discussions About the Criminalization of HIV Non-disclosure Among Women Living with HIV in Canada

In 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that people with HIV are legally obligated to disclose their serostatus before sex with a "realistic possibility" of HIV transmission, suggesting a legal obligation to disclose unless they use condoms and have a low HIV viral load (< 1500 copies/mL). We measured prevalence and correlates of ruling awareness among 1230 women with HIV enrolled in a community-based cohort study (2015-2017). While 899 (73%) participants had ruling awareness, only 37% were both aware of and understood ruling components. Among 899 aware participants, 34% had never discussed disclosure and the law with healthcare providers, despite only 5% being unwilling to do this. Detectable/unknown HIV viral load, lack of awareness of prevention benefits of antiretroviral therapy, education ≤ high-school and high HIV-related stigma were negatively associated with ruling awareness. Discussions around disclosure and the law in community and healthcare settings are warranted to support women with HIV.

Study protocol: becoming and being a mother living with HIV - a multicentre longitudinal mixed methods study among pregnant women living with HIV, non-pregnant women living with HIV and pregnant women not living with HIV in a high-income setting (the 2B MOM study)

INTRODUCTION

The success of combination antiretroviral therapy has decreased the risk of perinatal HIV transmission and normalised pregnancy in women living with HIV (WLWH). Despite these advances, WLWH still face complex medical and psychosocial issues during pregnancy and postpartum, and there is a gap of knowledge on the experiences of becoming and being a mother living with HIV in today's context. The overall aim of this study is to investigate psychosocial outcomes and experiences of WLWH in Scandinavia during pregnancy and early motherhood.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a multicentre longitudinal convergent mixed methods study consisting of a quantitative survey study, a qualitative interview study and a mixed methods analysis. The survey study aims to examine psychosocial outcomes of WLWH across the pregnancy - postpartum trajectory. Participants are pregnant WLWH living in Scandinavia. Two control groups of HIV-negative pregnant women and non-pregnant WLWH are also included. Data is collected in the third trimester, 3 and 6 months postpartum using standardised questionnaires. Statistical analysis will assess changes over time and identify predictors of adverse outcomes. The interview study seeks to understand experiences of pregnancy and becoming a mother while living with HIV. Pregnant WLWH who are enrolled in the survey study will be asked to participate in individual interviews in the third trimester and 6 months postpartum. Data will be analysed using narrative analysis. The survey and interview results will be merged in a mixed methods analysis to assess confirmation, expansion or discordance between the data sets.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Approval from the Danish Data Protection Agency (VD-2018-253), and the Finnish and Swedish Ethics Committees have been obtained (HUS/1330/2019 and Dnr: 2019-04451, respectively). Study results will be disseminated to patient organisations, through publications in peer-reviewed journals and at scientific conferences.

The Intersection of HIV, Social Vulnerability, and Reproductive Health: Analysis of Women Living with HIV in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 1996 to 2016

Comprehensive care for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and social needs for women living with HIV remains limited globally. We aimed to assess trends in baseline sociodemographic, clinical, sexual, and reproductive characteristics among a cohort of HIV-infected women in Rio de Janeiro from 1996 to 2016. Participants were stratified into four time periods based on year of enrollment; we compared cross-sectional data from each period. Of 1361 participants (median age 36), most were black or mixed race (60.1%), unemployed (52.1%), and without secondary education (54%). Adolescent pregnancy was common (51.5%), and 18.3% reported sexual debut at < 15 years old. Nearly half (45.2%) had < 5 lifetime sexual partners, yet prior syphilis and oncogenic human papillomavirus prevalence were 10.9% and 43.1%, respectively. Lifetime prevalence of induced abortion was 30.3%, and 16% used no contraceptive method. Future research should explore interactions between social vulnerability, HIV, and poor SRH outcomes and healthcare models to alleviate these disparities.

Menopausal symptoms and associated factors in women living with HIV in Cambodia

This study investigated the prevalence and severity of menopausal symptoms and associated factors among women living with HIV in Cambodia. Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) assessed the menopausal symptoms, and SPSS Version 20.0 analyzed the data. The three most dominant symptoms, which were also rated the top three "severe" symptoms, were psychological: physical and mental exhaustion (91.5%), irritability (84.1%), and depressive mood (83.6%). The highest incidence was among the perimenopausal women. Severity of symptoms was associated with personal income, abortion, and intake of calcium supplements. Health-care professionals need to provide appropriate individualized interventions to maintain the social, emotional, and overall well-being of menopausal women living with HIV.

Compliance with clinical guidelines and adherence to antiretroviral therapy among patients living with HIV

Objective: Evaluation of provider compliance with antiretroviral (ARV) treatment guidelines and patient adherence to ARVs is important for HIV care quality assessment; however, there are few current real-world data for guideline compliance and ARV adherence in the US. This study evaluated provider compliance with US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) guidelines and patient adherence to ARVs in a US population of patients with HIV.Methods: This was a retrospective claims study of adults with HIV-1 receiving ARV treatment between January 2010-December 2014. Follow-up began at first ARV treatment and ended at health plan disenrollment or study end. ARV regimens for treatment-naïve patients were categorized as "preferred/recommended", "alternative", or "non-preferred/recommended/alternative" according to DHHS guidelines. ARV adherence was evaluated using proportion of days covered (PDC) and medication possession ratio (MPR).Results: The analysis included 25,320 patients (84.4% male, mean age 45.3 years) and 39,071 regimens. Preferred/recommended regimens were most common during each study year, but the proportion of non-preferred/recommended/alternative regimens was substantial (15.9-20.6%). Only 53.6% of patients had optimal adherence by PDC ≥0.95, and 57.9% by MPR ≥0.95. Guideline non-compliance and sub-optimal adherence were more prevalent among female vs male patients (22.6% vs 14.8% [in 2014] and 65.9% vs 53.7%, respectively).Conclusions: Provider non-compliance with DHHS guidelines and sub-optimal ARV adherence among patients with HIV remain common in real-world practice, particularly for female patients. Healthcare providers should follow the latest clinical guidelines to ensure that patients receive recommended therapy, and address non-adherence when selecting ARV regimens.

The relationship between menopausal women infected with the human immunodeficiency virus and cervical atrophy: A cytologic study

BACKGROUND

With the advent of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), HIV positive women are expected to live longer. The effect of chronic HIV infection and cART on cervical epithelial maturation has not been well studied in postmenopausal woman. The objective of this study was to determine whether HIV positive postmenopausal women on cART show expected atrophic changes in cervical Pap tests.

METHODS

The maturation index (MI) was performed on routine cervical smears from HIV-infected, postmenopausal women attending an HIV clinic in a tertiary hospital in Johannesburg, over a 4-year period from January 2009 to December 2012.

RESULTS

In Pap smears of 111 patients on cART, 58 (52%) showed an unexpected predominantly mature squamous epithelial pattern whereas 53 (48%) were predominantly immature or atrophic (P = .0001). There was no significant statistical difference in maturation according to cART use.

CONCLUSION

HIV-infected, postmenopausal women in this study had reduced rates of cervical atrophy than expected, irrespective of cART use and CD4 count. Initiation of cART before menopause was associated with greater cervical epithelium maturation than those women who started cART after menopause. Additional, larger studies are required to confirm this novel finding and to investigate the reason for this phenomenon.

A Genome-Wide Association Study Identifies a Candidate Gene Associated With Atazanavir Exposure Measured in Hair

Hair provides a direct measure of long-term exposure of atazanavir (ATV). We report the results of the first genome-wide association study (GWAS) of ATV exposure measured in hair in an observational cohort representative of US women living with HIV; the Women's Interagency HIV Study. Approximately 14.1 million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed in linear regression-based GWAS, with replication, adjusted for nongenetic predictors collected under conditions of actual use of ATV in 398 participants. Lastly, the PharmGKB database was used to identify pharmacogene associations with ATV exposure. The rs73208473, within intron 1 of SORCS2, resulted in a 0.46-fold decrease in ATV exposure, with the strongest association (P = 1.71×10-8 ) in GWAS. A priori pharmacogene screening did not identify additional variants statistically significantly associated with ATV exposure, including those previously published in ATV plasma candidate pharmacogene studies. The findings demonstrate the potential value of pharmacogenomic GWAS in ethnically diverse populations under conditions of actual use.

Substance use patterns among women living with HIV compared with the general female population of Canada

BACKGROUND

HIV infection and substance use synergistically impact health outcomes of people with HIV. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of substance use among women living with HIV (WLWH) and compared them with expected values from general data.

METHODS

Cigarette smoking, frequency of alcohol consumption, last-month non-prescribed cannabis use (vs. last-year use), and last 3 months regular (≥once/week) and occasional (<once/week) use of crack/cocaine, speed (amphetamine), and heroin (vs. last-year use) were examined in WLWH from the 2013-2015 Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study (CHIWOS; N = 1422) and compared with general population women from the 2013-2014 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS; N = 46,831). Age/ethnoracial-standardized prevalence differences (SPD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported.

RESULTS

Compared to expected estimates from general population women, a higher proportion of WLWH reported daily cigarette smoking (SPD: 26.8% [95% CI: 23.9, 29.7]), smoking ≥20 cigarettes/day (SPD: 11.6% [9.8, 13.6]), regular non-prescribed cannabis use (SPD: 8.0% [4.1, 8.6]), regular crack/cocaine use (SPD: 16.7% [13.1, 20.9]), regular/occasional speed use (SPD: 2.4% [1.2, 4.7]), and heroin use (SPD: 11.2% [8.3, 15.0]). However, WLWH reported lower frequencies of alcohol consumption and binge drinking than their counterparts in the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

Cigarette smoking and illicit drug use, but not alcohol use or binge drinking, were more prevalent in WLWH than would be expected for Canadian women with a similar age and ethnoracial group profile. These findings may indicate the need for women-centered harm reduction programs to improve health outcomes of WLWH in Canada.

Impact of social determinants on antiretroviral therapy access and outcomes entering the era of universal treatment for people living with HIV in Italy

BACKGROUND

Social determinants are known to be a driving force of health inequalities, even in high income countries. Aim of our study was to determine if these factors can limit antiretroviral therapy (ART) access, outcome and retention in care of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Italy.

METHODS

All ART naïve HIV+ patients (pts) of Italian nationality enrolled in the ICONA Cohort from 2002 to 2016 were included. The association of socio-demographic characteristics (age, sex, risk factor for HIV infection, educational level, occupational status and residency area) with time to: ART initiation (from the first positive anti-HIV test), ART regimen discontinuation, and first HIV-RNA < 50 cp/mL, were evaluated by Cox regression analysis, Kaplan Meier method and log-rank test.

RESULTS

A total of 8023 HIV+ pts (82% males, median age at first pos anti-HIV test 36 years, IQR: 29-44) were included: 6214 (77.5%) started ART during the study period. Women, people who inject drugs (PWID) and residents in Southern Italy presented the lowest levels of education and the highest rate of unemployment compared to other groups. Females, pts aged > 50 yrs., unemployed vs employed, and people with lower educational levels presented the lowest CD4 count at ART initiation compared to other groups. The overall median time to ART initiation was 0.6 years (yrs) (IQR 0.1-3.7), with a significant decrease over time [2002-2006 = 3.3 yrs. (0.2-9.4); 2007-2011 = 1.0 yrs. (0.1-3.9); 2012-2016 = 0.2 yrs. (0.1-2.1), p < 0.001]. By multivariate analysis, females (p < 0.01) and PWID (p < 0.001), presented a longer time to ART initiation, while older people (p < 0.001), people with higher educational levels (p < 0.001), unemployed (p = 0.02) and students (p < 0.001) were more likely to initiate ART. Moreover, PWID, unemployed vs stable employed, and pts. with lower educational levels showed a lower 1-year probability of achieving HIV-RNA suppression, while females, older patients, men who have sex with men (MSM), unemployed had higher 1-year risk of first-line ART discontinuation.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite median time to ART start decreased from 2002 to 2016, socio-demographic factors still contribute to disparities in ART initiation, outcome and durability.

Consensus statement: Supporting Safer Conception and Pregnancy For Men And Women Living with and Affected by HIV

Safer conception interventions reduce HIV incidence while supporting the reproductive goals of people living with or affected by HIV. We developed a consensus statement to address demand, summarize science, identify information gaps, outline research and policy priorities, and advocate for safer conception services. This statement emerged from a process incorporating consultation from meetings, literature, and key stakeholders. Three co-authors developed an outline which was discussed and modified with co-authors, working group members, and additional clinical, policy, and community experts in safer conception, HIV, and fertility. Co-authors and working group members developed and approved the final manuscript. Consensus across themes of demand, safer conception strategies, and implementation were identified. There is demand for safer conception services. Access is limited by stigma towards PLWH having children and limits to provider knowledge. Efficacy, effectiveness, safety, and acceptability data support a range of safer conception strategies including ART, PrEP, limiting condomless sex to peak fertility, home insemination, male circumcision, STI treatment, couples-based HIV testing, semen processing, and fertility care. Lack of guidelines and training limit implementation. Key outstanding questions within each theme are identified. Consumer demand, scientific data, and global goals to reduce HIV incidence support safer conception service implementation. We recommend that providers offer services to HIV-affected men and women, and program administrators integrate safer conception care into HIV and reproductive health programs. Answers to outstanding questions will refine services but should not hinder steps to empower people to adopt safer conception strategies to meet reproductive goals.

Prevalence and risk factors of mild chronic renal failure in HIV-infected patients: influence of female gender and antiretroviral therapy

Background

In people living with HIV, much is known about chronic kidney disease, defined as a glomerular filtration rate under 60 mL/min. However, there is scarce data about prevalence and risk factors for milder impairment (60–89 mL/min).

Objective

The present study aims to assess the influence of sex, antiretroviral therapy, and classical risk factors on the occurrence of mild decreased renal function in a large Spanish cohort of HIV-infected patients.

Methods

Cross-sectional, single center study, including all adult HIV-1-infected patients under antiretroviral treatment with at least two serum creatinine measures during 2014, describing the occurrence of and the risk factors for mildly decreased renal function (eGFR by CKD-EPI creatinine equation of 60–89 mL/min).

Results

Among the 4337 patients included, the prevalence rate of mildly reduced renal function was 25%. Independent risk factors for this outcome were age older than 50 years (OR 3.03, 95% CI 2.58–3.55), female sex (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.02–1.48), baseline hypertension (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.25–1.97) or dyslipidemia (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.17–1.87), virologic suppression (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.39–2.53), and exposure to tenofovir disoproxil-fumarate (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.33–2.08) or ritonavir-boosted protease-inhibitors (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.03–1.39).

Conclusions

Females and patients over 50 seem to be more vulnerable to renal impairment. Potentially modifiable risk factors and exposure to tenofovir disoproxil-fumarate or ritonavir-boosted protease-inhibitors are present even in earlier stages of chronic kidney dysfunction. It remains to be determined whether early interventions including antiretroviral therapy changes (tenofovir alafenamide, cobicistat) or improving comorbidities management will improve the course of chronic kidney disease.

Out of focus: tailoring the cascade of care to the needs of women living with HIV

Around half of the global adult HIV-positive population are women, yet historically women have been under-represented in clinical studies of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and there has been minimal exploration of gender-specific factors related to the response to and appropriateness of treatment choices in women living with HIV (WLWH). There are several key issues pertaining to the cascade of HIV care that make it important to differentiate WLWH from men living with HIV. Factors that are gender specific may impact on the status of WLWH, affecting access to diagnosis and treatment, optimal clinical management, ART outcomes, retention in care, and the overall long-term wellbeing of WLWH. In this review, we discuss the results of recently reported women-only clinical trials and highlight the key unmet needs of WLWH as they pertain to the cascade of HIV care across World Health Organization European Region countries. As significant knowledge gaps remain, the review identifies key areas where further research is required, in order to support improved management of WLWH and guide informed clinical decision-making, including addressing psychosocial factors as part of comprehensive care.

A Review of HIV-Specific Patient-Reported Outcome Measures

The use of patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures to provide added feedback to health providers is receiving interest as a means of improving clinical care and patient outcomes, and contributing to more patient-centered care. In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), while PROs are used in research, their application in clinical practice has been limited despite their potential utility. PRO selection is an important consideration when contemplating their use. As past reviews of PROs in HIV have focused on particular areas (e.g. disability, satisfaction with care), a more comprehensive review could better inform on the available instruments and their scope. This article reviews HIV-specific PROs to produce an inventory and to identify the central concepts targeted over time. Seven databases were searched (HAPI, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Google Scholar), generating 14,794 records for evaluation. From these records, 117 HIV-specific PROs were identified and categorized based on a content analysis of their targeted concept: Health-Related Quality of Life (23; 20 %), ART and Adherence-Related Views and Experiences (19; 16 %), Healthcare-Related Views and Experiences (15; 13 %), Psychological Challenges (12; 10 %), Symptoms (12; 10 %), Psychological Resources (10; 9 %), HIV Self-Management and Self-Care (8; 7 %), HIV-Related Stigma (8; 7 %), Body and Facial Appearance (4; 3 %), Social Support (3; 3 %), Sexual and Reproductive Health (2; 2 %), and Disability (1; 1 %). This review highlights the variety and evolution of HIV-specific PROs, with the arrival of seven categories of PROs only after the advent of highly-active antiretroviral therapy. Our inventory also offers a useful resource. However, the interest of further HIV-specific PRO development should be explored in sexual health, which received little independent attention.

Contraceptive Choice and Use of Dual Protection Among Women Living with HIV in Canada: Priorities for Integrated Care

CONTEXT

Preventing unintended pregnancy and HIV transmission is important for women with HIV, but little is known about their contraceptive use, particularly under current antiretroviral therapy (ART) recommendations for treatment and prevention.

METHODS

The prevalence of contraceptive use and of dual protection was examined among 453 sexually active women with HIV aged 16-49 and enrolled in the Canadian HIV Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Cohort Study in 2013-2015; multivariable logistic regression was used to identify correlates of use. Two definitions of dual protection were assessed: the World Health Organization (WHO) definition (consistent condom use alongside another effective method) and an expanded definition (consistent condom use or a suppressed HIV viral load alongside an effective method).

RESULTS

Overall, 73% of women used effective contraceptives, primarily male condoms (45%) or tubal ligation (19%). Eighteen percent practiced WHO-defined dual protection, and 40% practiced dual protection according to the expanded definition. Characteristics positively associated with contraceptive use were younger age, having been pregnant, being heterosexual, being unaware of ART's HIV prevention benefits and having had partners of unknown HIV status (odds ratios, 1.1-6.7). Younger age and perceived inability to become pregnant were positively associated with both definitions of dual protection (1.04-3.3); additionally, WHO-defined dual protection was associated with perceiving HIV care to be women-centered and having had partners of unknown HIV status (2.0-4.1), and dual protection under the expanded definition was related to having been pregnant (2.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should explore how sustained ART and broader contraceptive options can support women's sexual and reproductive health care needs.

Promoting high standards of care for women living with HIV: position statement from the Women Against Viruses in Europe Working Group

OBJECTIVES

Gender-related factors can influence management decisions, treatment outcomes and the overall long-term wellbeing of people living with HIV (PLWH). The Women Against Viruses in Europe (WAVE) Working Group was established to promote the health and wellbeing of women living with HIV (WLWH). WAVE is part of the European AIDS Clinical Society (EACS) and organizes annual workshops to discuss different issues in the management of WLWH.

METHODS

In 2016, 34 WAVE members including community representatives, HIV clinicians and researchers met to discuss standards of care for WLWH and to review current guidelines. Participants focused on three different themes: (1) access to and engagement and retention in care; (2) monitoring of women on antiretroviral therapy and management of comorbidities; and (3) review of EACS treatment guidelines.

RESULTS

Five priority areas for optimizing the care of WLWH were identified: (1) psychosocial aspects of HIV diagnosis and care; (2) mental health and wellbeing; (3) pharmacokinetics, toxicity and tolerability of antiretroviral therapy; (4) coinfections and comorbidities; and (5) sexual and reproductive health. WAVE recommendations are provided for each of these areas, and gaps in knowledge and needs for changes in currently existing standards are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

This position statement provides an overview of the key recommendations to optimize the care of WLWH that emerged during the 2016 WAVE workshop.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes Among Older Women with HIV

OBJECTIVES

To inform the development of HIV care strategies for older women with HIV infection, an understudied group, we compared the psychosocial, behavioral, and clinical characteristics of HIV-positive women aged ≥50 (older women) with those aged 18-49 (younger women).

METHODS

We examined factors among HIV-positive women in care using data from the 2009 through 2013 cycles of a nationally representative sample of HIV-positive adults in care (Medical Monitoring Project). We compared psychosocial, clinical, and behavioral factors among women aged ≥50 years at interview versus those aged <50 years. We calculated weighted frequency estimates and performed logistic regression to compute adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the comparison of characteristics among women aged ≥50 versus <50 years.

RESULTS

Of 22,145 participants, 6186 were women; 40.7% (CI 39.1-42.3) were ≥50 years, and 32.7% of older women reported being sexually active. Compared with women <50 years, women aged ≥50 years were more likely to be dose adherent (aPR = 1.19; CI 1.07-1.33), prescribed antiretroviral therapy and have sustained viral load suppression (aPR = 1.03; CI 1.00-1.18), and were less likely to report any depression (aPR = 0.92; CI 0.86-0.99), to report condomless sex with a negative or unknown partner if sexually active (aPR = 0.56; CI 0.48-0.67), and to have received HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention counseling from a healthcare provider (aPR = 0.82; CI 0.76-0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that older women in HIV care have more favorable outcomes in some clinical areas, but may warrant increased HIV/STI prevention counseling from their care providers, especially if sexually active.

HIV disclosure and stigma among women living with HIV in Denmark

OBJECTIVE

To identify disclosure, stigma and predictors of non-disclosure among women living with HIV in Denmark.

METHODS

A questionnaire study of women living with HIV in Denmark was performed. The enrolment period was from February 2013 to March 2014. Logistic regression was used to estimate predictors of non-disclosure.

RESULTS

A total of 234 participants were included. The majority (94%) had disclosed their HIV status to at least one person outside their healthcare environment, although 29% had disclosed to fewer than three people. Confidantes were mostly partners (96%), siblings (63%), friends (63%) and children (41%). The primary reason for non-disclosure was a feeling that it did not concern others (55%), although reactions upon disclosure were mainly positive in 53%. Predictors of non-disclosure were being of black or Asian ethnicity. Following their HIV diagnosis, 40% no longer dared to have sex, 40% felt isolated and 23% felt that others were afraid and kept a physical distance. In contrast, after disclosure 75% felt better at taking decisions about life and 50% were in closer contact with family and friends.

CONCLUSION

Almost one-third of participants disclosed their HIV diagnosis to fewer than three people and black or Asian ethnicity predicted non-disclosure. HIV-related stigma regarding sex and contact with others is still highly prevalent; however, reactions to disclosure were mainly positive and associated with secondary positive gains. We strongly urge healthcare professionals to initiate a dialogue regarding stigma and disclosure with women living with HIV with a view to increasing disclosure and minimising stigmatisation in this vulnerable population.

Health-related quality-of-life and receipt of women-centered HIV care among women living with HIV in Canada

We measured health-related quality of life (HRQOL) using the SF-12 among women living with HIV (WLWH) in Canada between August 2013 and May 2015. We investigated differences by perceived receipt of women-centered HIV care (WCHC), assessed using an evidence-based definition with a 5-point Likert item: "Overall, I think that the care I have received from my HIV clinic in the last year has been women-centered" (dichotomized into agree vs. disagree/neutral). Of 1308 participants, 26.3 percent were from British Columbia, 48.2 percent from Ontario, and 25.5 percent from Québec. The median age was 43 years (interquartile range = 36-51). Most (42.2 percent) were White, 29.4 percent African/Caribbean/Black, and 21.0 percent Indigenous. Overall, 53.4 percent perceived having received WCHC. Mean physical and mental HRQOL scores were 43.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 14.4) and 41.7 (SD = 14.2), respectively. Women perceiving having received WCHC had higher mean physical (44.7; SD = 14.0) and mental (43.7; SD = 14.1) HRQOL scores than those not perceiving having received WCHC (42.9; SD = 14.8 and 39.5; SD = 14.0, respectively; p < .001). In multivariable linear regression, perceived WCHC was associated with higher mental (β = 3.48; 95 percent confidence interval: 1.90, 5.06) but not physical HRQOL. Improving HRQOL among Canadian WLWH, which was lower than general population estimates, is needed, including examining the potential of WCHC as an effective model of clinical care.

The adherence gap: a longitudinal examination of men's and women's antiretroviral therapy adherence in British Columbia, 2000-2014

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to observe the effect of sex on attaining optimal adherence to combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) longitudinally while controlling for known adherence confounders - IDU and ethnicity.

DESIGN

Using the population-based HAART Observational Medical Evaluation and Research cohort, data were collected from HIV-positive adults, aged at least 19 years, receiving cART in British Columbia, Canada, with data collected between 2000 and 2014. cART adherence was assessed using pharmacy refill data. The proportion of participants reaching optimal (≥95%) adherence by sex was compared per 6-month period from initiation of therapy onward. Generalized linear mixed models with logistic regression examined the effect of sex on cART adherence.

RESULTS

Among 4534 individuals followed for a median of 65.9 months (interquartile range: 37.0-103.2), 904 (19.9%) were women, 589 (13.0%) were Indigenous, and 1603 (35.4%) had a history of IDU. A significantly lower proportion of women relative to men were optimally adherent overall (57.0 vs. 77.1%; P < 0.001) and in covariate analyses. In adjusted analyses, female sex remained independently associated with suboptimal adherence overall (adjusted odds ratio: 0.55; 95% confidence interval: 0.48-0.63).

CONCLUSION

Women living with HIV had significantly lower cART adherence rates then men across a 14-year period overall, and by subgroup. Targeted research is required to identify barriers to adherence among women living with HIV to tailor women-centered HIV care and treatment support services.

Influence of Sex/Gender and Race on Responses to Raltegravir Combined With Tenofovir-Emtricitabine in Treatment-Naive Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Infected Patients: Pooled Analyses of the STARTMRK and QDMRK Studies

BACKGROUND

Antiretroviral therapy in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women and blacks merits particular scrutiny because these groups have been underrepresented in clinical trials.

METHODS

To document the effects of raltegravir across sex and racial lines, we conducted a pooled subgroup analysis of the efficacy and safety of raltegravir 400 mg BID plus tenofovir-emtricitabine by sex (women vs men) and self-identified race (black vs non-black) using phase 3 studies in treatment-naive patients.

RESULTS

Study participants included 42 black women, 102 non-black women, 48 black men, and 477 non-black men. Clade B infections were less common in women (43.8%) than men (84.6%) and in blacks (45.6%) than non-blacks (80.5%). Baseline CD4 counts were ≤200 cells/µL in 52.2% of blacks and 31.6% of non-blacks. Black men had the largest proportion of patients with baseline CD4 counts <50 cells/µL and the highest nontreatment-related discontinuation rate among the 4 sex-by-race subgroups. Human immunodeficiency virus-ribonucleic acid levels <50 copies/mL were achieved at week 48 in 92.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 80.1-98.5) of black women, 93.6% (95% CI, 86.6-97.6) of non-black women, 82.9% (95% CI, 67.9-92.8) of black men, and 91.4% (95% CI, 88.4-93.8) of non-black men. Serious clinical adverse events were reported in 9.0% of women versus 8.8% of men and in 11.1% of blacks versus 8.5% of non-blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

In this post hoc analysis of patients with previously untreated HIV-1 infection receiving raltegravir plus tenofovir-emtricitabine, generally comparable results were achieved across sex and racial subgroups. However, black men had a lower response rate than either black women or non-black men, partially attributable to lower baseline CD4 counts and higher discontinuation rates.

Ageing and menopause considerations for women with HIV in the UK

OBJECTIVES

Treatment rollout has dramatically improved life expectancy for people with HIV and AIDS. Women represent a substantial proportion of patients in the UK (approximately one-third of patients in care are female according to the HIV Annual Report 2014). This study examines psychosocial and biomedical issues for women diagnosed with HIV in the UK, comparing those above and below 45 years of age to examine menopause and ageing issues.

METHODS

Consecutive clinic attenders in a large outpatient London HIV clinic were invited to participate in the study. Data were available for 170 (68%) women. In 57 women above the age of 45 data were available regarding menopause detailed insights.

RESULTS

Compared with women aged under 45, women >45 years old were significantly less likely to be in a relationship (P=0.01), had higher anxiety scores (P=0.002), more likely to be classified as moderate to severe (25.9% vs 9.1%; χ²=6.1, P=0.01). There were no differences in terms of suicidal ideation, which was high for both groups of women (56.6%). Older women had higher psychological symptoms on the MSAS scale form and significantly higher PHQ-9 depression levels. A higher proportion of older women scored above the cut-off point for moderate to severe depression (9.2% vs 21.8%; χ²=3.7, P=0.048). Fewer older women had no mental health challenges (26.1% vs 42.4%) and more had multiple comorbidities (P=0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of women reported experiencing a variety of physical and psychological menopause-related symptoms and there was a high suicide ideation rate in both groups of women. Over half of the group of menopausal women recorded distressing symptoms such as hot flushes, sweating, decreased sexual desire, back pain, night sweats, avoiding intimacy, involuntary urination and skin changes, yet few sought help. Age-specific, psychosexual and menopause services should be routinely available for women with HIV.

The Association Between HIV Disclosure Status and Perceived Barriers to Care Faced by Women Living with HIV in Latin America, China, Central/Eastern Europe, and Western Europe/Canada

Generally, women are less likely than men to disclose their HIV status. This analysis examined the relationship between HIV disclosure and (1) perceived barriers to care and (2) quality of life (QoL) for women with HIV. The ELLA (EpidemioLogical study to investigate the popuLation and disease characteristics, barriers to care, and quAlity of life for women living with HIV) study enrolled HIV-positive women aged ≥18 years. Women completed the 12-item Barriers to Care Scale (BACS) questionnaire. QoL was assessed using the Health Status Assessment. BACS and QoL were stratified by dichotomized HIV disclosure status (to anyone outside the healthcare system). Multilevel logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with disclosure. Of 1945 patients enrolled from Latin America, China, Central/Eastern Europe, and Western Europe/Canada between July 2012 and September 2013, 1929 were included in the analysis (disclosed, n = 1724; nondisclosed, n = 205). Overall, 55% of patients lived with a husband/partner, 53% were employed, and 88% were receiving antiretroviral therapy. Patients who were with a serodiscordant partner were more likely to disclose (p = 0.0003). China had a disproportionately higher percentage of participants who did not disclose at all (nearly 30% vs. <15% for other regions). Mean BACS severity scores for medical/psychological service barriers and most personal resource barriers were significantly lower for the disclosed group compared with the nondisclosed group (p ≤ 0.02 for all). Compared with the disclosed group, the nondisclosed group reported statistically significantly higher (p ≤ 0.03) BACS item severity scores for 8 of the 12 potential barriers to care. The disclosed group reported better QoL. Overall, HIV nondisclosure was associated with more severe barriers to accessing healthcare by women with HIV.

Depression and anxiety were low amongst virally suppressed, long-term treated HIV-infected individuals enrolled in a public sector antiretroviral program in Thailand

HIV/AIDS and anxiety/depression are interlinked. HIV-infected patients suffering from depression may be at risk for poor adherence which may contribute to HIV disease progression. Additionally, an HIV diagnosis and/or using certain antiretroviral agents may trigger symptoms of anxiety/depression. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and factors associated with anxiety and depression in HIV-infected patients from the Thai National HIV Treatment Program. This cross-sectional study was performed from January 2012 to December 2012 in HIV-infected out-patients, aged ≥18 years, from three HIV referral centers. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured using the Thai-validated Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A score of ≥11 was defined as having anxiety and depression. Associated factors were assessed by multivariate logistic regression. Totally 2023 (56% males) patients were enrolled. All patients received antiretroviral therapy (ART) for a mean duration of 7.7 years. Median CD4 was 495 cells/mm³. Ninety-five percent had HIV-RNA < 50 copies/ml. Thirty-three percent were currently on efavirenz (EFV)-based ART. The prevalence of anxiety and depression were 4.8% and 3.1%, respectively. About 1.3% had both anxiety and depression. In multivariate logistic models, the female sex [OR = 1.6(95%CI 1.1-2.3), p = .01], having adherence <90% [OR = 2.2(95%CI 1.5-3.4), p < .001], fair/poor quality of life (QOL) [OR = 7.2 (95%CI 3.6-14.2), p < .001] and EFV exposure [OR = 1.6(95%CI 1.1-2.3), p = .01], were independently associated with having anxiety or depression. Our findings demonstrated that prevalence of depression and anxiety was low amongst virally suppressed, long-term antiretroviral-treated HIV-infected individuals. Some key characteristics such as the female sex, poor adherence, poor/fair QOL and EFV exposure are associated with anxiety and depression. These factors can be used to distinguish who would need a more in-depth evaluation for these psychiatric disorders.

The menopause transition in women living with HIV: current evidence and future avenues of research

As the life expectancy of people living with HIV improves as a result of antiretroviral therapy, increasing numbers of women living with HIV (WLHIV) are now reaching menopausal age. The menopause transition in WLHIV remains a relatively overlooked area in clinical HIV research. Whilst there is some evidence to suggest that WLHIV experience menopause at an earlier age and that they have more menopausal symptoms, there is no clear consensus in the literature around an impact of HIV infection on either timing or symptomatology of the menopause. Data are also conflicting on whether HIV-related factors such as HIV viral load and CD4 cell count have an impact on the menopause. Furthermore, menopausal symptoms in WLHIV are known to go under-recognised by both healthcare providers and women themselves. There is likely to be a burden of unmet health needs among WLHIV transitioning through the menopause, with significant gaps in the evidence base for their care. With this in mind, we have developed the PRIME study (Positive Transitions Through the Menopause). This mixed-methods observational study will explore, for the first time in the UK, the impact of the menopause on the health and wellbeing of 1500 ethnically diverse WLHIV. In establishing a cohort of women in their midlife and following them up longitudinally, we hope to develop a nuanced understanding of the gendered aspects of ageing and HIV, informing the provision of appropriate services for WLHIV to ensure that they are supported in maintaining optimal health and wellbeing as they get older.

Higher tenofovir exposure is associated with longitudinal declines in kidney function in women living with HIV

OBJECTIVE

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is a commonly used antiretroviral drug, but risk factors for tenofovir (TFV)-associated kidney disease are not fully understood. We used intensive pharmacokinetic studies in a cohort of HIV-infected women on TFV-based therapy to study the relationship between TFV exposure and subsequent kidney function.

DESIGN

This is a nested study within the Women's Interagency HIV Study, a multicenter, prospective cohort of HIV-infected women. Participants on TFV-based therapy underwent 24-h intensive pharmacokinetic sampling after witnessed dose. Kidney function was measured over the succeeding 7 years by serum creatinine [estimated glomerular filtration rate calculated by serum creatinine (eGFRcr)].

METHODS

Multivariable linear mixed models evaluated the relationship of baseline TFV area under the-time concentration curves (AUCs) with subsequent changes in kidney function. Covariates included age, diabetes, hypertension, race, BMI, ritonavir use, duration of TFV exposure, current CD4 cell count, and HIV viral load.

RESULTS

Of the 105 participants, persons within the highest baseline TFV AUC tertile had significantly lower eGFRcr compared with those in the lowest tertile (mean ± standard error: 80 ± 4.3 vs. 104 ± 2.5 ml/min per 1.73 m, P < 0.0001). By year 7, this difference widened (72 ± 4.9 vs. 105 ± 2.9, P < 0.0001). After multivariable adjustment, TFV AUC in the highest tertile remained associated with lower eGFRcr relative to values in the lowest tertile at both baseline (-15 ml/min per 1.73 m, P = 0.0047) and year 7 (-23 ml/min per 1.73 m, P = 0.0002).

CONCLUSION

Through intensive TFV pharmacokinetic sampling, we found a strong association between greater TFV exposure and subsequent decline in kidney function. Variations in TFV drug exposure may partially account for subsequent nephrotoxicity in persons infected with HIV.

Sexually transmitted infections and use of contraceptives in women living with HIV in Denmark - the SHADE cohort

Background

No Danish guidelines for screening of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in women living with HIV (WLWH) exist, except for annual syphilis testing. Drug-drug interaction between hormonal contraceptives and some types of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) occurs. We assessed prevalence of STIs, contraceptive choices and predictors of condom use in a cohort of WLWH in Denmark.

Methods

WLWH consecutively enrolled during their outpatient visits from 2011 to 2012. Gynaecological examination and an interview were performed at entry and 6-month follow-up. Inclusion criteria were HIV-1 infection and ≥ 18 years of age. Exclusion criteria were pregnancy, alcohol- or drug abuse impeding adherence to the protocol. At entry, participants were tested (and where appropriate, treated according to guidelines) for Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, syphilis, and herpes simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2). At follow-up, predictors of condom use were estimated in sexually active WLWH.

Results

In total, 334 of the 1,392 eligible WLWH in Denmark were included (median age and HIV duration: 42.5 and 11.3 years). Chlamydia trachomatis was present in four individuals (1 %), and six (2 %) tested positive for HSV-2 by PCR. None were positive for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, HSV-1 or had active syphilis. At follow-up, 252 (76 %) participated; 168 (70 %) were sexually active. Contraceptives were used by 124 (75 %); condoms were preferred (62 %). Having an HIV-negative partner predicted condom use (adjusted OR 3.89 (95 %CI 1.49-10.11)). In the group of participants of reproductive age without pregnancy desires 13 % used no birth-control. Possible drug-drug interaction between hormonal contraceptives and HAART was found in 13/14 WLWH receiving both kinds of medication.

Conclusion

The prevalence of STIs in WLWH in Denmark was low. The need for annual STI screening is questionable. Condoms were preferred contraceptives, especially in WLWH with an HIV-negative partner. In this cohort, 13 % of WLWH of reproductive age were at risk of unintended pregnancies due to lack of birth-control. Finally, in the subgroup of WLWH receiving both hormonal contraceptives and HAART possible drug-drug interactions could occur.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-016-1412-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Differential effects of sex in a West African cohort of HIV-1, HIV-2 and HIV-1/2 dually infected patients: men are worse off

OBJECTIVES

Several studies have reported conflicting effects of sex on HIV-1 infection. We describe differences in baseline characteristics and assess the impact of sex on HIV progression among patients at a clinic with many HIV-2 and HIV-1/2 dually infected patients.

METHODS

This study utilised a retrospective cohort of treatment-naïve adults at the largest HIV clinic in Guinea-Bissau from 6 June 2005 to 1 December 2013. Baseline characteristics were assessed and the patients followed until death, transfer, loss to follow-up, or 1 June 2014. We estimated the time from the first clinic visit until initiation of ART, death or loss to follow-up using Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

A total of 5694 patients were included in the study, 3702 women (65%) and 1992 men (35%). Women were more likely than men to be infected with HIV-2 (19% vs. 15%, P < 0.01) or dually infected with HIV-1/2 (11% vs. 9%, P = 0.02). For all HIV types, women were younger (median 35 vs. 40 years), less likely to have schooling (55% vs. 77%) or to be married (46% vs. 67%), and had higher baseline CD4 cell counts (median 214 vs. 178 cells/μl). Men had a higher age-adjusted mortality rate (hazard rate ratio (HRR) 1.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09-1.52) and were more often lost to follow-up (HRR 1.27, 95% CI 1.17-1.39).

CONCLUSION

Significant differences exist between HIV-infected men and women regardless of HIV type. Men seek treatment at a later stage and, despite better socio-economic status, have higher mortality and loss to follow-up than women.

Addressing gender inequalities to improve the sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing of women living with HIV

INTRODUCTION

Globally, women constitute 50% of all persons living with HIV. Gender inequalities are a key driver of women's vulnerabilities to HIV. This paper looks at how these structural factors shape specific behaviours and outcomes related to the sexual and reproductive health of women living with HIV.

DISCUSSION

There are several pathways by which gender inequalities shape the sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing of women living with HIV. First, gender norms that privilege men's control over women and violence against women inhibit women's ability to practice safer sex, make reproductive decisions based on their own fertility preferences and disclose their HIV status. Second, women's lack of property and inheritance rights and limited access to formal employment makes them disproportionately vulnerable to food insecurity and its consequences. This includes compromising their adherence to antiretroviral therapy and increasing their vulnerability to transactional sex. Third, with respect to stigma and discrimination, women are more likely to be blamed for bringing HIV into the family, as they are often tested before men. In several settings, healthcare providers violate the reproductive rights of women living with HIV in relation to family planning and in denying them care. Lastly, a number of countries have laws that criminalize HIV transmission, which specifically impact women living with HIV who may be reluctant to disclose because of fears of violence and other negative consequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Addressing gender inequalities is central to improving the sexual and reproductive health outcomes and more broadly the wellbeing of women living with HIV. Programmes that go beyond a narrow biomedical/clinical approach and address the social and structural context of women's lives can also maximize the benefits of HIV prevention, treatment, care and support.

“Trust Me, It’s Different”: Experiences of Peer Case Management of Women Living with HIV in Ontario, Canada

In response to the dearth of research for delivering women-centred support to women living with HIV, the Women’s HIV Empowerment Through Life Tools for Health (wHEALTH) intervention was developed. This project was grounded in a community-based research framework and aimed to respond to barriers of women living with HIV in accessing appropriate and meaningful social supports. Participants described the benefits of the peer case management intervention including support, mentorship, flexibility in which the intervention was delivered, and the notion of “moving forward” in one’s journey with HIV. Through education, awareness, and advocacy, peer case managers are important partners in addressing HIV-related stigma, and ensuring a multi-level approach to providing care and support to women living with HIV.

Quality of life assessment among HIV-positive persons entering the INSIGHT Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment (START) trial

OBJECTIVES

With HIV treatment prolonging survival and HIV infection now managed as a chronic illness, quality of life (QOL) is important to evaluate in persons living with HIV (PLWH). We assessed at study entry the QOL of antiretroviral-naïve PLWH with CD4 counts > 500 cells/μL in the Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment (START) clinical trial.

METHODS

QOL was assessed with: (1) a visual analogue scale (VAS) for self-assessment of overall current health; (2) the Short-Form 12-Item Version 2 Health Survey(®) (SF-12V2), for which responses are summarized into eight individual QOL domains plus component summary scores for physical health [the Physical Health Component Summary (PCS)] and mental health [the Mental Health Component Summary (MCS)]. The VAS and eight domain scores were scaled from 0 to 100. Mean QOL measures were calculated overall and by demographic, clinical and behavioural factors.

RESULTS

A total of 4631 participants completed the VAS and 4119 the SF-12. The mean VAS score (with standard deviation) was 80.9 ± 15.7. Mean SF-12 domain scores were lowest for vitality (66.3 ± 26.4) and mental health (68.6 ± 21.4), and highest for physical functioning (89.3 ± 23.0) and bodily pain (88.0 ± 21.4). Using multiple linear regression, PCS scores were lower (P < 0.001) for Asians, North Americans, female participants, older participants, and those with less education, longer duration of known HIV infection, alcoholism/substance dependence and body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m(2) . MCS scores were highest (P < 0.001) for Africans, South Americans and older participants, and lowest for female participants, current smokers and those with alcoholism/substance dependence.

CONCLUSIONS

In this primarily healthy population, QOL was mostly favourable, emphasizing that it is important that HIV treatments do not negatively impact QOL. Self-assessed physical health summary scores were higher than mental health scores. Factors such as older age and geographical region had different effects on perceived physical and mental health.

HIV infection

More than 75 million people worldwide have been infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and there are now approximately 37 million individuals living with the infection. Untreated HIV replication causes progressive CD4(+) T cell loss and a wide range of immunological abnormalities, leading to an increased risk of infectious and oncological complications. HIV infection also contributes to cardiovascular disease, bone disease, renal and hepatic dysfunction and several other common morbidities. Antiretroviral drugs are highly effective at inhibiting HIV replication, and for individuals who can access and adhere to these drugs, combination antiretroviral therapy leads to durable (and probably lifelong) suppression of viral replication. Viral suppression enables immune recovery and the near elimination of the risk for developing acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Despite effective treatment, HIV-infected individuals have a higher than expected risk of heart, bone, liver, kidney and neurological disease. When used optimally by an infected (or by an uninfected) person, antiretroviral drugs can virtually eliminate the risk of HIV transmission. Despite major advances in prevention sciences, HIV transmission remains common in many vulnerable populations, including men who have sex with men, injection drug users and sex workers. Owing to a lack of widespread HIV testing and the costs and toxicities associated with antiretroviral drugs, the majority of the infected population is not on effective antiretroviral therapy. To reverse the pandemic, improved prevention, treatment and implementation approaches are necessary.