1
|
Hanson OR, Weglarz AJ, Barabara ML, Cohen SR, Minja LM, Mlay PS, Stephens MJ, Olomi GA, Mlay J, Mmbaga BT, Watt MH. HIV-related Shame among Women Giving Birth in Tanzania: A Mixed Methods Study. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2276-2285. [PMID: 38526642 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04322-1] [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] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Women living with HIV (WLHIV) commonly experience HIV-related shame which can interfere with HIV care-seeking behavior and lead to poor clinical outcomes. HIV-related shame may be particularly heightened during the pregnancy and postpartum periods. This study aimed to describe HIV-related shame among WLHIV giving birth, identify associated factors, and qualitatively examine the impacts of HIV-related shame on the childbirth experience. Postpartum WLHIV (n = 103) were enrolled in the study between March and July 2022 at six clinics in the Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. Participants completed a survey within 48 h after birth, prior to being discharged. The survey included a 13-item measure of HIV-related shame, which assessed levels of HIV-related shame (Range: 0-52). Univariable and multivariable regression models examined factors associated with HIV-related shame. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with pregnant WLHIV (n = 12) and postpartum WLHIV (n = 12). Thematic analysis, including memo writing, coding, and synthesis, was employed to analyze the qualitative data. The survey sample had a mean age of 29.1 (SD = 5.7), and 52% were diagnosed with HIV during the current pregnancy. Nearly all participants (98%) endorsed at least one item reflecting HIV-related shame, with an average endorsement of 9 items (IQR = 6). In the final multivariable model, HIV-related shame was significantly associated with being Muslim vs. Christian (ß = 6.80; 95%CI: 1.51, 12.09), attending less than four antenatal care appointments (ß = 5.30; 95%CI: 0.04, 10.55), and reporting experiences of HIV stigma in the health system (ß = 0.69; 95%CI: 0.27, 1.12). Qualitative discussions revealed three key themes regarding the impact of HIV-related shame on the childbirth experience: reluctance to disclose HIV status, suboptimal adherence to care, and the influence on social support networks. WLHIV giving birth experience high rates of HIV-related shame, and social determinants may contribute to feelings of shame. HIV-related shame impacts the childbirth experience for WLHIV, making the labor and delivery setting an important site for intervention and support.The study is funded by the National Institutes of Health (R21 TW012001) and is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05271903).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia R Hanson
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Williams Building, Room 1N410, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - Anya J Weglarz
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Williams Building, Room 1N410, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | | | - Susanna R Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Linda M Minja
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Pendo S Mlay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Maya J Stephens
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Williams Building, Room 1N410, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | - Gaudensia A Olomi
- Health Management Department, Kilimanjaro Regional Secretary's Office, Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Janeth Mlay
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Melissa H Watt
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Williams Building, Room 1N410, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Marshall AD, Rance J, Dore GJ, Grebely J, Treloar C. Applying a stigma and time framework to facilitate equitable access to hepatitis C care among women who inject drugs: The ETHOS Engage Study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 129:104477. [PMID: 38861842 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who inject drugs are significantly less likely to initiate hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment than men. Concerted efforts are needed to minimise gender-based inequalities in care. The study aim was to use a stigma and time framework to investigate how women who inject drugs experienced HCV care in healthcare settings. METHODS Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 34 participants from the ETHOS Engage Cohort (n = 1,443) in Australia. Inclusion criteria were aged ≥18 years, history of injection drug use, and persons who injected in the prior six months or were currently receiving opioid agonist treatment. Drawing on the original qualitative dataset (n = 34), we conducted a secondary analysis focused on women participants' experiences of receiving HCV related care (n = 21/34). Utilising thematic analysis, we applied Earnshaw's theoretical framework, which incorporates time into stigma and health research via three "timescales" - historical context, human development, and status course. RESULTS Among the 21 women interviewed (mean age 42 years, 5 are Aboriginal, 11 received HCV treatment), the majority were currently receiving opioid agonist treatment and over half injected drugs in the past month. For historical context, most participants were diagnosed with HCV during the interferon era (1990s-2014). Participants had to navigate a sociomedical landscape not only largely bereft of adequate HCV medical knowledge, appropriate support, and adequate treatments, but were also generally assessed as "unsuitable" for treatment based on their perceived personhood as people who inject drugs. For human development, many participants reported encountering overlapping stigmatizing experiences (layered stigma) while receiving their HCV diagnosis in prenatal care and early postpartum. Under status course, participants acutely recognised the intersection of HCV infection, injection drug use, and gender, and reported concerns about being judged more harshly from healthcare providers as a result. CONCLUSION A stigma and time framework illuminated multiple overlapping stigmatizing experiences for women who inject drugs in HCV care and in turn, can help to inform tools and interventions to counter their impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Jake Rance
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hall E, Davis K, Ohrnberger J, Pickles M, Gregson S, Thomas R, Hargreaves JR, Pliakas T, Bwalya J, Dunbar R, Mainga T, Shanaube K, Hoddinott G, Bond V, Bock P, Ayles H, Stangl AL, Donnell D, Hayes R, Fidler S, Hauck K. Associations between HIV stigma and health-related quality-of-life among people living with HIV: cross-sectional analysis of data from HPTN 071 (PopART). Sci Rep 2024; 14:12835. [PMID: 38834593 PMCID: PMC11150264 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63216-3] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLHIV) report lower health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) than HIV-negative people. HIV stigma may contribute to this. We explored the association between HIV stigma and HRQoL among PLHIV. We used cross-sectional data from 3991 randomly selected PLHIV who were surveyed in 2017-2018 for HPTN 071 (PopART), a cluster randomised trial in Zambia and South Africa. Participants were 18-44 years, had laboratory-confirmed HIV infection, and knew their status. HRQoL was measured using the EuroQol-5-dimensions-5-levels (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire. Stigma outcomes included: internalised stigma, stigma experienced in the community, and stigma experienced in healthcare settings. Associations were examined using logistic regression. Participants who had experienced community stigma (n = 693/3991) had higher odds of reporting problems in at least one HRQoL domain, compared to those who had not (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 1.51, 95% confidence interval, 95% Cl: 1.16-1.98, p = 0.002). Having experienced internalised stigma was also associated with reporting problems in at least one HRQoL domain (n = 552/3991, aOR: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.54-2.54, p < 0.001). However, having experienced stigma in a healthcare setting was less common (n = 158/3991) and not associated with HRQoL (aOR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.68-1.58, p = 0.850). A stronger focus on interventions for internalised stigma and stigma experienced in the community is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Hall
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Katherine Davis
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK.
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Julius Ohrnberger
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Pickles
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Gregson
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ranjeeta Thomas
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics, London, UK
| | - James R Hargreaves
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Triantafyllos Pliakas
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Justin Bwalya
- Zambart, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Rory Dunbar
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tila Mainga
- Zambart, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kwame Shanaube
- Zambart, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Graeme Hoddinott
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Virginia Bond
- Zambart, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Peter Bock
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Helen Ayles
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anne L Stangl
- Hera Solutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Deborah Donnell
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Richard Hayes
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Katharina Hauck
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Abdul Latif Jameel Institute for Disease and Emergency Analytics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nabunya P, Ssewamala FM, Kizito S, Mugisha J, Brathwaite R, Neilands TB, Migadde H, Namuwonge F, Ssentumbwe V, Najjuuko C, Sensoy Bahar O, Mwebembezi A, McKay MM. Preliminary Impact of Group-Based Interventions on Stigma, Mental Health, and Treatment Adherence Among Adolescents Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Uganda. J Pediatr 2024; 269:113983. [PMID: 38401789 PMCID: PMC11095998 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.113983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the preliminary impact of group cognitive behavioral therapy and multiple family group-based family strengthening to address HIV stigma and improve the mental health functioning of adolescents living with HIV in Uganda. STUDY DESIGN We analyzed data from the Suubi4Stigma study, a 2-year pilot randomized clinical trial that recruited adolescents living with HIV (10-14 years) and their caregivers (n = 89 dyads), from 9 health clinics. We fitted separate three-level mixed-effects linear regression models to test the effect of the interventions on adolescent outcomes at 3 and 6 months post intervention initiation. RESULTS The average age was 12.2 years and 56% of participants were females. Participants in the multiple family group-based family strengthening intervention reported lower levels of internalized stigma (mean difference = -0.008, 95% CI = -0.015, -0.001, P = .025) and depressive symptoms at 3 months (mean difference = -0.34, 95% CI = -0.53, -0.14, P < .001), compared with usual care. On the other hand, participants in the group cognitive behavioral therapy intervention reported lower levels of anticipated stigma at 3 months (mean difference = -0.039, 95% CI = -0.072, -0.006), P = .013) and improved self-concept at 6 months follow-up (mean difference = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.01, P = .025). CONCLUSION Outcome trends from this pilot study provide compelling evidence to support testing the efficacy of these group-based interventions on a larger scale. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study is registered in the Clinical trials.gov database (Identifier #: NCT04528732).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO.
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - James Mugisha
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Division of Prevention Science, School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Herbert Migadde
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD) Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Vicent Ssentumbwe
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Claire Najjuuko
- Division of Computational & Data Sciences, McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | | | - Mary M McKay
- Vice Provost Office, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Filiatreau LM, Ebasone PV, Dzudie A, Wainberg M, Yotebieng M, Anastos K, Parcesepe AM. Intersectional HIV- and Depression-Related Stigma Among People with HIV Entering HIV Care in Cameroon. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04375-2. [PMID: 38767726 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04375-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Mental health-related stigma is a prominent barrier to improved mental health outcomes globally and may be particularly harmful to populations with other stigmatized identities. We aimed to understand intersectional depression- and HIV-related stigma among people with HIV (PWH) entering HIV care in Cameroon. Using baseline data from a cohort of PWH entering HIV care in Cameroon between 2019 and 2020, we characterized depression- and HIV-related stigma in the population overall and by sociodemographic sub-group. We also explored substantively meaningful variation in stigma endorsement by depressive symptom severity (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) and causal attribution of depression. Among those with elevated depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 scores > 4), we estimated the association between stigma type and depressive symptom severity using binomial regression. Among 398 participants, 49% endorsed low HIV- and depression-related stigma (N = 195), 10% endorsed high HIV- and depression-related stigma (N = 38), 29% endorsed high depression-related stigma only (N = 116), and 12% endorsed high HIV-related stigma only (N = 49). Respondents with and without heightened depressive symptoms commonly believed depressive symptoms were caused by HIV (N = 140; 32.9%). Among those with elevated depressive symptoms, the prevalence of moderate to severe symptoms was higher among those endorsing high HIV-related stigma only (prevalence ratio 1.55; 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 2.37) compared to those reporting low HIV- and depression-related stigma. HIV- and depression-related stigma are both common among PWH entering HIV care in Cameroon. The consistent association between HIV-related stigma and poor psychosocial well-being among people with HIV necessitates the urgent scale-up of evidence-based HIV-related stigma interventions specifically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey M Filiatreau
- School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | | | - Anastase Dzudie
- Clinical Research Education Networking and Consultancy, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Milton Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Angela M Parcesepe
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Han K, Patel P, McCallister S, Rinehart AR, Gandhi Y, Spreen W, Landovitz RJ, Delany-Moretlwe S, Marzinke MA, McKeon T, Budnik P, van Wyk J, Ford SL. Long-acting cabotegravir pharmacokinetics with and without oral lead-in for HIV PrEP. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024:e0147523. [PMID: 38709006 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01475-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-acting cabotegravir is approved for pre-exposure prophylaxis and combination HIV treatment, both initiated with optional short-term oral lead-in (OLI). We evaluated the impact of OLI on long-acting cabotegravir pharmacokinetics. Cabotegravir plasma concentrations were compared between HIV-positive participants initiating injections with (n = 278) or without (n = 110) OLI in phase III treatment study FLAIR and in HIV-negative participants using OLI (n = 263) in pivotal pre-exposure prophylaxis studies HPTN 083 and HPTN 084. Cabotegravir pharmacokinetic profiles were simulated in three populations (assigned-male-at-birth, 50%-assigned-female-at-birth, and assigned-female-at-birth) under three scenarios: first injection given (A) 1 or (B) 3 days after final OLI dose (OLI-injection gap) or (C) without OLI. The PK objective was 80% of participants achieving 4× in vitro protein-adjusted 90% maximal inhibitory concentration (PA-IC90) and 50% achieving 8× PA-IC90. Observed trough concentrations (Cτ) were similar with and without OLI (P > 0.3). With a 3-day OLI-injection gap, simulated pre-injection Cτ remained above PK objective. Approximately 1-2 weeks after the first injection, simulated PK profiles became nearly identical among all scenarios. Without OLI, it was predicted that 80% of participants achieve 4× PA-IC90 in 1.2, 1.8, and 2.8 days after the first injection in each population, respectively, and 50% achieve 8× PA-IC90 in 1.4, 2.1, and 3.8 days, respectively. Observed long-acting cabotegravir exposure was similar with or without OLI, supporting optional OLI use. Cabotegravir exposure was predicted to remain above PK objective for OLI-injection gaps of ≤3 days and rapidly achieve PK objective after first injection without OLI. Findings are consistent between assigned-male-at-birth and assigned-female-at-birth populations.This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02720094.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Parul Patel
- ViiV Healthcare, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Raphael J Landovitz
- Center for Clinical AIDS Research and Education, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | | | - Todd McKeon
- ViiV Healthcare, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lindh M, Brännström J, Reepalu A, Svedhem V, Mellgren Å. Factors associated with sex differences in viral non-suppression in the Swedish InfCareHIV cohort: An observational real-world study. HIV Med 2024; 25:540-553. [PMID: 38196293 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13607] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Women living with HIV are underrepresented in clinical trials assessing outcomes of antiretroviral treatment (ART), justifying the need for observational studies. We investigated differences in viral non-suppression between women and men in the Swedish InfCareHIV cohort and analysed results in relation to biological and socio-demographic variables and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). METHODS The study included people living with HIV (PLWH) aged ≥18 years, who initiated ART at least 6 months prior to inclusion. Data from the InfCareHIV registry 2011-2018 were collected. Associations between variables and HIV RNA ≥50 copies/mL were investigated in uni- and multivariable analyses using generalized estimating equations, providing relative risks (RRs) as effect size. RESULTS The study included 38% (n = 2981) women. Women were more likely to have HIV RNA ≥50 copies/mL than were men [RR = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.31]. After adjusting for origin and route of transmission, sex at birth was no longer associated with viral non-suppression. PROMs were available in 52.4% of PLWH, and items associated with viral non-suppression were impaired adherence in women (RR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.79-3.17) and men (RR 1.84, 95% CI: 1.40-2.42), and experience of side effects in women (RR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.10-2.02). CONCLUSIONS This observational study found a 20% higher relative risk of viral non-suppression in women than in men and the difference was associated with socio-demographic factors. The associations between PROMs and viral non-suppression varied between women and men. PROMs are important health outcomes that may identify PLWH in need of support to achieve viral non-suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lindh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Södra Älvsborg Hospital, Department of Research, Education and Innovation, Borås, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Södra Älvsborg Hospital, Borås, Sweden
| | - Johanna Brännström
- Division of Infection and Dermatology, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases/Venhälsan, South Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anton Reepalu
- Clinical Infection Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Veronica Svedhem
- Division of Infection and Dermatology, Department of Medicine Huddinge, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Åsa Mellgren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nabunya P, Migadde H, Namuwonge F, Mugisha J, Kirabo W, Ssentumbwe V, Claire N, Raymond A, Bahar OS, Mwebembezi A, McKay MM, Ssewamala FM. Feasibility and Acceptability of Group-Based Stigma Reduction Interventions for Adolescents Living with HIV and Their Caregivers: The Suubi4Stigma Randomized Clinical Trial (2020-2022). AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1630-1641. [PMID: 38308772 PMCID: PMC11070307 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04284-4] [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] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of two group-based interventions: group-cognitive behavioral therapy (G-CBT) and a family-strengthening intervention delivered via multiple family group (MFG-FS), to address HIV stigma among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) and their caregivers. A total of 147 adolescent -caregiver dyads from 9 health clinics situated within 7 political districts in Uganda were screened for eligibility. Of these, 89 dyads met the inclusion criteria and provided consent to participate in the study. Participants were randomized, at the clinic level, to one of three study conditions: Usual care, G-CBT or MFG-FS. The interventions were delivered over a 3-month period. While both adolescents and their caregivers attended the MFG-FS sessions, G-CBT sessions were only attended by adolescents. Data were collected at baseline, 3 and 6-months post intervention initiation. The retention rate was 94% over the study period. Across groups, intervention session attendance ranged between 85 and 92%, for all sessions. Fidelity of the intervention was between 85 and 100%, and both children and caregivers rated highly their satisfaction with the intervention sessions. ALHIV in Uganda, and most of sub-Saharan Africa, are still underrepresented in stigma reduction interventions. The Suubi4Stigma study was feasible and acceptable to adolescents and their caregivers -supporting testing the efficacy of the interventions in a larger trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Herbert Migadde
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD) Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - James Mugisha
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Kirabo
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD) Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Vicent Ssentumbwe
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Najjuuko Claire
- Division of Computational & Data Sciences, McKelvey School of Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Atwebembere Raymond
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | | | - Mary M McKay
- Office of the Vice Provost, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Manghani P, Monroe A, Castel A, Kumar P, Phunmongkol J, Denyer R, O’Connor L. Low Uptake of Long-Acting Injectables in the First 2.5 Years Following Approval Among a Cohort of People Living With HIV. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae087. [PMID: 38756764 PMCID: PMC11097117 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Manghani
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Anne Monroe
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Amanda Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Princy Kumar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jennifer Phunmongkol
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rachel Denyer
- Infectious Disease Division, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lauren O’Connor
- Department of Epidemiology, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ahmed M, Nijhawan AE, Gao A, Ahn C, Chow JY. Association Between Substance Abuse and Mental Illness Symptoms Screener (SAMISS) Scores and HIV Care Continuum Outcomes in People Newly Diagnosed with HIV in the US South. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1731-1740. [PMID: 38361170 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04287-1] [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] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Mental illness (MI) and substance use (SU) are highly prevalent among people with HIV (PWH) and impact care outcomes. The Substance Abuse and Mental Illness Symptoms Screener (SAMISS) is a validated screener for MI and SU, but it is unknown how screening results at entry to care correlate with subsequent HIV outcomes. This is a retrospective chart review of individuals newly diagnosed with HIV between 2016 and 2019 in a Southern US, safety-net clinic. Baseline demographics, HIV risk factors, socioeconomic variables, and SAMISS screening scores were collected. Outcomes included retention in care, achieving virologic suppression (VS), and continuous VS. Data analyses included stepwise Cox and logistic multivariate regression modeling. Among the 544 newly diagnosed PWH, mean age was 35, 76% were male, 46% non-Hispanic Black, 40% Hispanic/other. Overall, 35% screened positive for SU and 41% for MI. A positive SU (odds ratio (OR) 0.66, p = 0.04) or MI (OR 0.65, p = 0.03) SAMISS screening was associated with lower retention in care in univariate analysis, but was not statistically significant after adjusting for other variables. Positive SAMISS screening for SU and MI were both associated with reduced continuous VS in univariate and multivariate analyses (SU: adjusted OR (aOR) 0.67, p = 0.05; MI: aOR 0.66, p = 0.03). SAMISS is a useful tool for prospectively identifying individuals at risk for low retention in care and for not achieving sustained VS. Future interventions guided by SAMISS may improve HIV care continuum outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manal Ahmed
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ank E Nijhawan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ang Gao
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chul Ahn
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jeremy Y Chow
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Poku O, Attoh-Okine ND, Corbeil T, Chen Y, Kluisza L, Ahmed A, Liotta L, Morrison C, Dolezal C, Robbins RN, Mellins CA. Assessing the Validity of the Social Impact Scale Among a Longitudinal Cohort of Adolescents and Young Adults Living With Perinatally Acquired HIV. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 96:11-17. [PMID: 38301642 PMCID: PMC11009064 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With few psychometrically evaluated HIV-related stigma measures for adolescents and young adults living with HIV, we examined the developmental applicability (ie, validity) of 2 subscales of the commonly used stigma measure, the Social Impact Scale, among a cohort of adolescents and young adults with perinatally acquired HIV. SETTING Data were obtained from a New York City longitudinal study (N = 340). This study primarily comprised Black and Latinx adolescents and young adults with either perinatally acquired HIV or those with perinatal exposure but who are uninfected. Data for this analysis were obtained from the population with perinatally acquired HIV and spanned approximately a 15-year survey period (2003-2018). METHODS A confirmatory factor analysis was used at 7 time points to assess whether the Social Rejection and Internalized Shame subscales were consistent in this cohort over time. Overall and individual Cronbach alphas were reported to show the strength of the internal consistency. RESULTS The mean age from baseline to follow-up 6 ranged from 12 to 23 years over the study period. The Social Rejection subscale was acceptably valid across follow-up periods with strong factor loadings and Cronbach alphas higher than 0.70. However, the Internalized Shame subscale was less valid among younger adolescents. Starting at follow-up 2, we observed better validity with the Internalized Shame subscale performance. CONCLUSION Future research must consider mechanisms for developing and adapting measures from a developmental perspective to best measure the experiences of HIV-related stigma among younger populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ohemaa Poku
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Naa-Djama Attoh-Okine
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Surgery, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Jamaica, NY; and
| | - Thomas Corbeil
- Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Ying Chen
- Mental Health Data Science, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Luke Kluisza
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Afifa Ahmed
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Lucy Liotta
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Corey Morrison
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Curtis Dolezal
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Reuben N Robbins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Claude A Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Parisi CE, Varas-Rodriguez E, Algarin AB, Richards V, Li W, Cruz Carrillo L, Ibañez GE. A Content Analysis of HIV-Related Stigmatizing Language in the Scientific Literature, From 2010-2020: Findings and Recommendations for Editorial Policy. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1209-1217. [PMID: 37161354 PMCID: PMC10636239 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2207289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite negative effects of HIV-related stigma on people with HIV, some scientific literature continues to use stigmatizing terms. Our study aimed to explore the use of HIV-related stigmatizing language in the scientific literature between 2010 and 2020 based on 2015 UNAIDS terminology guidelines. We searched for articles with the stigmatizing term "HIV/AIDS-infected" or any variations that were peer-reviewed, published between 2010 and 2020, and in English or with an English translation. Our search yielded 26,476 articles that used the stigmatizing term of interest. Frequencies on the variables of interest (journal, year, and country) were run. The use of these terms increased from 2010 to 2017 and decreased from 2018 to 2020. Most journals using the terms were HIV/AIDS specific or on infectious diseases, but the journal with the greatest frequency of use was on general science and medicine. Thirty-six percent of the articles emanated from the United States. To reduce the use of stigmatizing language in the HIV literature, action should be taken by authors, reviewers, editors,educators, and publishers should create formal policies promoting use of non-stigmatizing language.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina E Parisi
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida
| | - Emil Varas-Rodriguez
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University
| | - Angel B Algarin
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University
| | - Veronica Richards
- Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University
| | - Liset Cruz Carrillo
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University
| | - Gladys E Ibañez
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yuan GF, Zhang R, Qiao S, Li X, Shen Z, Zhou Y. Exploring the Longitudinal Influence of Perceived Social Support, HIV Stigma, and Future Orientation on Depressive Symptoms Among People Living with HIV in China. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1662-1672. [PMID: 38329557 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04292-4] [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] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Prior studies demonstrated that perceived social support is negatively associated with behavioral and mental health problems among people living with HIV (PLWH). However, longitudinal data regarding the associations between perceived social support, internalized HIV stigma, future orientation, and depressive symptoms are limited. The current study aimed to investigate the possible indirect relationship between these variables using four-wave follow-up data (6-month intervals) from a sample of 1,098 Chinese PLWH (Mage = 38.63, SD = 9.20, age range: 18-60 years; 63.9% men). All participants were asked to complete an adapted version of Perceived Social Support Scale, Internalized HIV Stigma Scale, Optimism About the Future Scale, and Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Results indicated that perceived social support at baseline was negatively related to depressive symptoms at wave 4. Internalized HIV stigma at wave 2 and future orientation at wave 3 indirectly affected the linkage between perceived social support at baseline and depressive symptoms serially over time. This study highlights the essential role of perceived social support in alleviating depressive symptoms among PLWH, and underscores the complex interplay in which internalized HIV stigma and future orientation serially mediated the relationship between perceived social support and depressive symptoms. These findings suggest the need for integrated interventions to enhance social support, address HIV-related stigma, and promote positive future orientation, which could potentially alleviate depressive symptoms and promote mental well-being among PLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangzhe Frank Yuan
- Department of Education Science, School of Education Science, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China.
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
| | - Ran Zhang
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Shan Qiao
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Zhiyong Shen
- Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| | - Yuejiao Zhou
- Guangxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nabunya P, Kizito S, Naseh M, Raymond A, Ssentumbwe V. Preliminary Impact of Group-Based Interventions on Stigma and the Mental Health of Caregivers of Adolescents Living with HIV in Uganda. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04353-8. [PMID: 38683434 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04353-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
This study examined the preliminary impact of group-cognitive behavioral therapy (G-CBT) and a family-strengthening intervention delivered via multiple family groups (MFG-FS) on HIV stigma, parenting stress, and the mental health of caregivers of adolescents living with HIV. We analyzed data from the Suubi4Stigma study (2020-2022), a two-year pilot randomized clinical trial for adolescents and their caregivers (N = 89 dyads), recruited from nine health clinics in Uganda. Adolescent-caregiver dyads were randomized to three intervention conditions delivered over three months, with data collected at baseline, three and six-months follow-up. We fitted mixed-effects linear regression models to test the effect of the interventions on caregiver outcomes over time. At six months, caregivers randomized to the MFG-FS condition reported lower levels of stigma by association (mean difference = -1.45, 95% CI = -2.52 - -0.38, p = 0.008), and stigma and discrimination attitudes (mean difference = -3.84, 95% CI = -4.63 - -3.05, p < 0.001), compared to Usual care condition. In addition, caregivers of adolescents randomized to the G-CBT condition reported lower levels of stigma and discrimination attitudes at three months (mean difference = -5.18, 95% CI = -9.13 - -1.22, p = 0.010), and at six months (mean difference = -6.70, 95% CI = -9.28 - -4.12, p < 0.001). Caregiver mental health and parenting stress significantly reduced over time regardless of intervention condition. Findings point to the importance of incorporating stigma reduction components within psychosocial interventions targeting adolescents and families impacted by HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Mitra Naseh
- The Initiative on Social Work & Forced Migration, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
| | - Atwebembere Raymond
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Vicent Ssentumbwe
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sulaiman SK, Musa MS, Tsiga-Ahmed FI, Ahmad SI, Haruna SA, Zubair AA, Makama BT, Hussein A, Sulaiman AK, Dayyab FM, Bako AT. Depression mediates the relationship between exposure to stigma and medication adherence among people living with HIV in low-resource setting: a structural equation modeling approach. J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s10865-024-00488-0. [PMID: 38643421 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-024-00488-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
This study hypothesizes that depression mediates the association between exposure to stigma and medication non-adherence in people living with HIV (PLHIV). We recruited 372 PLHIV from the Stigma, health-related Quality of life, antiretroviral Adherence, and Depression among people living with HIV (SQuAD-HIV) project, a multicenter cross-sectional study conducted between October 2021 and February 2022 among PLHIV attending six ART clinics in two geopolitical regions of northern Nigeria. A structural equation modeling (SEM) framework, utilizing the full information maximum likelihood estimator, was used to elucidate the pathways linking stigma, depression, and ART medication adherence, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. The total number of eligible participants analyzed (353) included 32.7% male PLHIV with a mean age (SD) of 39.42 (10.14). Being female was positively associated with adherence (β, 95% CI 0.335, 0.163-0.523, p-value < 0.001) but negatively associated with stigma (β, 95% CI - 0.334, - 0.561 to - 0.142, p-value = 0.001), while urban residence was negatively associated with stigma (β, 95% CI - 0.564, - 0.804 to - 0.340, p-value < 0.001). Our analysis also indicated that a higher level of experienced stigma was associated with decreased medication adherence. This association was partially mediated by depression (indirect effect = (0.256) (- 0.541) = - 0.139; p-value < 0.01). The proportion of the association between stigma and medication adherence explained through mediation by depression was 35.6%. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions aimed at lowering exposure to stigma among PLHIV to improve medication adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Muhammad Sale Musa
- Department of Medicine, Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, Nigeria
| | | | - Saidu Idris Ahmad
- Department of Medicine, Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Salisu Abubakar Haruna
- Department of Family Health, Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Aminu Hussein
- Department of Family Medicine, Federal Medical Center Birnin Kudu, Jigawa, Nigeria
| | - Abdulwahab Kabir Sulaiman
- Department of Medicine, Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
- Department of Epidemiology, Kano State Ministry of Health, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Alckmin-Carvalho F, Pereira H, Nichiata L. "It's a Lot of Closets to Come Out of in This Life": Experiences of Brazilian Gay Men Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus at the Time of Diagnosis and Its Biopsychosocial Impacts. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:1068-1085. [PMID: 38667825 PMCID: PMC11049621 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14040070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the experiences of Brazilian gay men with HIV, focusing on the moment of diagnosis and its potential biopsychosocial impacts. This clinical-qualitative study involved 15 participants interviewed online and synchronously by a clinical psychologist in 2021. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. Interpretations were grounded in Minority Stress Theory. Four thematic axes emerged, including "Diagnostic Revelation", "Social and Internalized Stigma", "Biopsychosocial Effects of Living with HIV", and "Gratitude for Treatment Advances and the Brazilian Health System". The diagnosis was often experienced as traumatic, exacerbated by the absence of empathy and emotional support from healthcare providers. Participants commonly reported guilt, fear upon learning of their HIV status, social isolation, loneliness, lack of social support, and damage to affective-sexual relationships. Many also noted a decline in mental health, even those without HIV-related medical complications. Despite over 40 years since the HIV epidemic began, the prevalence of homophobia and serophobia among gay men remains widespread, including within the multidisciplinary teams of specialized services. This indicates that the stigma associated with homosexuality and HIV persists, despite significant biomedical progress in the diagnosis and treatment of the infection, particularly in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal;
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Lucia Nichiata
- School of Nursing, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01239-020, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bonadonna LV, Guerrero E, McClendon T, Union S, Kabbani D, Wittmann D, Cohn J, Veltman J. Evaluation of an HIV homecare program for lost-to-follow-up populations: a mixed methods study in Detroit, Michigan. AIDS Res Ther 2024; 21:21. [PMID: 38609992 PMCID: PMC11015688 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-024-00608-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintaining people living with HIV (PLWHIV) in clinical care is a global priority. In the Metro Detroit area of Michigan, approximately 30% of PLWHIV are out of care. To re-engage lost-to-follow-up patients, Wayne Health Infectious Disease clinic launched an innovative Homecare program in 2017. In addition to home healthcare delivery, the program included links to community resources and quarterly community meetings. We aimed to evaluate Homecare's impact on participants' ability to stay engaged in HIV care and reach viral suppression. We included data from PLWHIV and their healthcare workers. METHODS We used a convergent mixed-methods design, including first year program record review, semi-structured interviews, and a validated Likert scale questionnaire rating illness perception before and after Homecare. Interview data were collected from 15 PLWHIV in Metro Detroit and two healthcare workers responsible for program delivery. Semi-structured interviews focused on obstacles to clinic-based care, support networks, and illness perceptions. Interview data were transcribed and analyzed using a thematic approach. A fully coded analysis was used to create a conceptual framework of factors contributing to Homecare's success. Means in eight categories of the Brief Illness Perception (IPQ) were compared using paired T-tests. RESULTS In the first year of Homecare, 28 of 34 participants (82%) became virally suppressed at least once. The program offered (1) social support and stigma reduction through strong relationships with healthcare workers, (2) removal of physical and resource barriers such as transportation, and (3) positive changes in illness perceptions. PLWHIV worked towards functional coping strategies, including improvements in emotional regulation, acceptance of their diagnosis, and more positive perspectives of control. Brief-IPQ showed significant changes in six domains before and after Homecare. CONCLUSION Homecare offers an innovative system for successfully re-engaging and maintaining lost-to-follow-up PLWHIV in care. These findings have implications for HIV control efforts and could inform the development of future programs for difficult to reach populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L V Bonadonna
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - E Guerrero
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - S Union
- Wayne Health, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - D Kabbani
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - J Cohn
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - J Veltman
- Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bazyar M, Ghorabi ST, Sadeghifar J, Ranjbar M, Pakzad R, Bonyadi F, Khasi K, Shakiba E, Nourbakhsh M, Rezeghian L, Noshadi B, Bavandpour M, HasanBeigi A, Behzadi A. What may encourage or deter health services utilization by people living with or at the risk of HIV/AIDS in special health centers? Qualitative evidence from a stigmatized community. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:981. [PMID: 38589818 PMCID: PMC11000400 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18480-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral Diseases Counseling Centers (BDCCs) and Vulnerable Women's Counseling Centers (VWCCs) in Iran are the main peripheral centers that offer educational, counseling, diagnostic, preventive, curative and protective services to individuals living with or at high risk of contracting HIV/AIDS and female sex workers respectively. Due to the social stigma surrounding HIV in Iran, this study aims to identify the factors that may hinder or encourage HIV/AIDS patients and women with risky sexual behaviors from visiting these centers. METHODS Conducted in 2023, this qualitative study involved individuals visiting BDCCs and VWCCs in two western provinces of Iran, Ilam and Kermanshah. The study participants included 21 health staff members working in BDCCs and VWCCs and 20 HIV/AIDS patients and vulnerable women with unsafe sexual behaviors referring to these centers. Purposive, snowball and maximum variation sampling techniques were applied to interview the participants. Interviews were conducted between January 5th and May 21st, 2023, using a semi-structure guideline. Interviews were transcribed and content analysis approach was applied to analyze data using MAXQDA20 software. RESULTS According to the findings, the barriers and facilitators of visiting specialized centers for HIV/AIDS patients and vulnerable women were categorized into three main categories, 10 subcategories and 35 sub-subcategories including: Medical and operational processes (4 subcategories and 12 sub-subcategories), mutual interactions between the personnel and visitors (people living with and at the risk of getting HIV/AIDS) (3 subcategory and 13 sub-subcategories), and physical characteristics of the centers (3 subcategories and 10 sub-subcategories). CONCLUSIONS To improve the performance of BDCCs and VWCCs and encourage people living with and at the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS to visit these centers regularly, health policy makers should consider modifying clinical processes, physical features, personnel behaviors and visitors' concerns raised by the interviewees and the issues identified in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Bazyar
- Health Management and Economics Department, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Samaneh Tahmasebi Ghorabi
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Emam Khomeini Hospital, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Jamil Sadeghifar
- Health Management and Economics Department, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
- Health and Environment Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ranjbar
- Health Policy & Management Research Center, Department of Health Management and Economics, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Reza Pakzad
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Bonyadi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Keyvan Khasi
- Behavioral Diseases Research Center, Public Health Deputy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Shakiba
- Behavioral Diseases Research Center, Public Health Deputy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mahtab Nourbakhsh
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Leila Rezeghian
- Behavioral Diseases Research Center, Public Health Deputy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Boshra Noshadi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Bavandpour
- Behavioral Diseases Research Center, Public Health Deputy, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Azim HasanBeigi
- Communicable Diseases Department, Public Health Deputy, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam,, Iran
| | - Anahita Behzadi
- Health Services Management Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
- Department of Health Management, Policy and Economics, Faculty of Management and Medical Informatics Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chavez JV, Ewart LD, Ilyas O, Ghanooni D, Diaz JE, Atkins L, Ramos R, Garayua AH, Stewart A, Horvath KJ, Hirshfield S, Carrico AW. I was like sh*t this is gonna hurt': Implementing Self-Sampling of Dried Blood Spots to Measure HIV Viral Load. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4132978. [PMID: 38645181 PMCID: PMC11030538 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4132978/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Background Sexual minority men (SMM) with HIV who use stimulants may experience greater difficulties with antiretroviral therapy adherence which amplifies risk for unsuppressed HIV viral load (VL). Remote monitoring of VL could support efforts to rapidly respond to sub-optimal adherence. Methods This qualitative study enrolled 24 SMM with HIV who use stimulants to examine experiences with two different dried blood spots (DBS) self-sampling devices (i.e., Tasso-M20 vs. HemaSpot HD) to measure VL. Participants were asked to complete self-sampling of DBS using both devices, and then participated in a 45-minute semi-structured interview. Interviews focused on ease of use, device preference, experiences with receiving and mailing kits, and barriers to participating in research. A thematic analysis was conducted to analyze interviews transcripts. Results Twenty-two participants (92%) returned the Tasso-M20 and 21 (88%) returned the Hemaspot HD devices. Among the 22 participants that completed qualitative interviews, twenty-three codes were identified and collapsed within seven themes. Preferences for devices were based on convenience, pain and prior experiences with finger-pricking technology. Participants emphasized that clearer instructions with contingency plans for self-sampling of DBS would improve the user experience with self-sampling of DBS. Intersectional stigma (e.g., HIV, sexual minority status, and substance use) was noted as an important consideration in implementing self-sampling of DBS. Promoting decision making, or the option to choose sampling method based on personal preferences, may improve engagement and likelihood of DBS completion. Conclusions Findings will guide the broader implementation of self-sampling of DBS to optimize VL monitoring in SMM with HIV who use stimulants.
Collapse
|
20
|
Kremer IEH, Beaudart C, Simons J, Plieger H, Schroeder M, Hiligsmann M. Preferences of people living with HIV for injectable and oral antiretroviral treatment in the Netherlands: a discrete choice experiment. AIDS Care 2024; 36:536-545. [PMID: 37526109 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2240067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTInjectable antiretroviral treatment (ART) represents a new effective and potentially more convenient alternative to oral ART for people living with HIV (PLWH). This study assessed preferences of PLWH for long-acting injectable compared with oral ART in the Netherlands. A labelled discrete choice experiment presented 12 choice sets of long-acting injectable and oral ART. PLWH were asked to select their preferred ART, described by six attributes: location of administration, dosing frequency, risk of short-term side effects, drug-drug interaction, forgivability, and food and mealtime restrictions. Random parameters logit and latent class models were used to estimate preferences of PLWH. 98.6% of 76 respondents were experienced oral ART users that had taken ART for a median of 12 years (Q1-Q3: 7.0-20.0). 30 (39.5%) respondents chose long-acting injectable ART in all choice tasks and 22 (28.9%) always chose oral ART. The random parameter model showed that, on average, respondents significantly favoured long-acting injectable ART over oral ART, preferred administration of the long-acting injectable ART at home, and a less frequent regimen. The latent class model confirmed one class strongly preferring long-acting injectable ART and one class slightly preferring oral ART. This study highlights the value for both long-acting injectable and oral ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid E H Kremer
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Charlotte Beaudart
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Joost Simons
- GSK, Amersfoort, Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Centre, Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Mickael Hiligsmann
- Department of Health Services Research, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fonner V, Agostini T, Desai R, Hartzell P, Martin L, Meissner EG. Implementation of free-draft text messaging to enhance care retention and satisfaction for persons living with HIV infection. AIDS Care 2024; 36:452-462. [PMID: 37139535 PMCID: PMC10622326 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2208320] [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: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Eligible persons with HIV infection can receive client-centered case management to coordinate medical and social services. Novel mobile health interventions could improve effective case management and retention in care, an important goal to help end the HIV epidemic. Using a hybrid type I effectiveness-implementation design, we assessed whether access to bidirectional, free-draft secure text messaging with a case manager and clinic pharmacist could improve client satisfaction and care retention in a Southern academic HIV clinic. Sixty-four clients enrolled between November 2019 and March 2020, had a median age of 39 years, and were mostly male, single, and African-American. Heavy app users texted over 100 times (n = 6) over the course of the 12-month intervention while others never texted (n = 12). App usage peaked during months of clinic closure due to COVID-19. Most participants reported high satisfaction with the app and planned continued usage after study completion. Changes in clinic retention and virologic suppression rates were not observed, a result confounded by practice changes due to COVID-19. High usage and satisfaction of free-draft text messaging in case-managed HIV clients supports inclusion of this communication option in routine HIV clinical care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Fonner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Thomas Agostini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Rohan Desai
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Peyton Hartzell
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Lisa Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Eric G. Meissner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hill SE, Zhang C, Remera E, Ingabire C, Umwiza F, Munyaneza A, Muhoza B, Rwibasira G, Yotebieng M, Anastos K, Murenzi G, Ross J. Association Between Clinical Encounter Frequency and HIV-Related Stigma Among Newly-Diagnosed People Living with HIV in Rwanda. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1390-1400. [PMID: 38112826 PMCID: PMC10947825 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04226-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma in healthcare settings remains a key barrier to engaging people living with HIV (PLHIV) in care. This study investigated the association between clinical encounter frequency and HIV-related anticipated, enacted, and internalized stigma among newly-diagnosed PLHIV in Rwanda. From October 2020 to May 2022, we collected data from adult PLHIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Kigali, Rwanda who were participating in a randomized, controlled trial testing early entry into differentiated care at 6 months after ART initiation. We measured anticipated HIV stigma with five-point Likert HIV Stigma Framework measures, enacted stigma with the four-point Likert HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument, and internalized stigma with the four-point Likert HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument. We used multivariable linear regression to test the associations between clinical encounter frequency (average inter-visit interval ≥ 50 days vs. < 50 days) and change in mean anticipated, enacted and internalized HIV stigma over the first 12 months in care. Among 93 individuals enrolled, 76 had complete data on encounter frequency and stigma measurements and were included in the present analysis. Mean internalized stigma scores of all participants decreased over the first 12 months in care. Anticipated and enacted stigma scores were low and did not change significantly over time. There was no association between encounter frequency and change in internalized stigma. In this pilot study of newly-diagnosed Rwandan PLHIV with relatively low levels of HIV-related stigma, clinical encounter frequency was not associated with change in stigma. Additional research in diverse settings and with larger samples is necessary to further explore this relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Hill
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Chenshu Zhang
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Eric Remera
- HIV/AIDS and STIs Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Institute of HIV Disease Prevention and Control, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Charles Ingabire
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Francine Umwiza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Athanase Munyaneza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Benjamin Muhoza
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gallican Rwibasira
- HIV/AIDS and STIs Diseases Division, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Institute of HIV Disease Prevention and Control, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Marcel Yotebieng
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Kathryn Anastos
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Gad Murenzi
- Rwanda Military Hospital, Kigali, Rwanda
- Research for Development, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jonathan Ross
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Jiménez-Rivagorza L, Orozco R, Medina-Mora ME, Rafful C. HIV-Related Stigma and Treatment Adherence Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Crystal Meth in the Metropolitan Area of Mexico City. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:1561-1574. [PMID: 38409457 PMCID: PMC10954905 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02816-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Internationally, HIV-related stigma and crystal methamphetamine (meth) use have been described as barriers to treatment adherence among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). Crystal meth use has been increasing among gbMSM in the Metropolitan Area of Mexico City (MAMC). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between HIV-related stigma and HIV treatment adherence among gbMSM who use crystal meth in the MAMC. This study was undertaken as part of an exploratory study of crystal meth use in the MAMC. The data were collected from September to December 2021 through an encrypted online survey. Participants (n = 89) were gbMSM adults living with HIV who reported crystal meth use in the past month that were recruited through an online snowball sampling. The online survey included questions about HIV treatment adherence, sexual behaviors, the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involved Screening Test, and the HIV-Related Stigma Mechanisms Scale. Logistic regression analyses assessed the association between HIV-related stigma and HIV treatment adherence. The multivariate logistic regression model showed that, controlling for health insurance [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.13; 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.02-0.59] and educational level (AOR = 0.16; 95% CI = 0.02-0.88), non-adherence to HIV treatment was independently associated with higher HIV-related stigma (AOR = 1.06; 95% CI = 1.01-1.12). Public health policies must include HIV-related stigma and substance use in treating gbMSM with HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Jiménez-Rivagorza
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Orozco
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María Elena Medina-Mora
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Rafful
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Coyoacan, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry, Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Perazzo H, Gonçalves JL, Cardoso SW, Grinsztejn B, Veloso VG, Luz PM. Pathways to Poor Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among People Living with HIV: The Role of Food Insecurity and Alcohol Misuse. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1173-1185. [PMID: 37523050 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04141-w] [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] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Daily adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) increases the length and quality of life of people living with HIV (PLHIV). We explored whether socioeconomic status directly impacts ART adherence and whether part of the effect is mediated by pathways through alcohol misuse or food insecurity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rio de Janeiro/Brazil (November/2019 to March/2020) with PLHIV aged ≥ 18 years. Validated instruments were used to measure alcohol use, food insecurity, and ART adherence. Using structural equation modeling we assessed the direct and indirect effects of variables on ART adherence. Participants reported significant challenges: hunger: 12%, alcohol use: 64%, and missing ART doses: 24%. Results showed that lower socioeconomic status increased poor adherence and that this effect was mediated through higher food insecurity. Alcohol misuse also increased poor adherence through a strong direct effect. Providing socio-economic support coupled with interventions to mitigate alcohol's harmful impact can aid HIV care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Perazzo
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Juliana L Gonçalves
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Sandra W Cardoso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Valdilea G Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Paula M Luz
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kabiibi F, Tamukong R, Muyindike W, Yadesa TM. Virological Non-Suppression, Non-Adherence and the Associated Factors Among People Living with HIV on Dolutegravir-Based Regimens: A Retrospective Cohort Study. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2024; 16:95-107. [PMID: 38533311 PMCID: PMC10964029 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s449947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background HIV is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, with 39.0 million people living with HIV worldwide, 25.6 million of whom reside in the African region. Highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) has improved survival and quality of life, yet some patients develop viral non-suppression. Dolutegravir (DTG) has been recommended since 2018 as a first-line treatment option in low- and middle-income countries owing to its effectiveness, low cost, and tolerability, but some studies have reported virological non-suppression with its use. This study aims to explore the prevalence and factors associated with virological non-suppression in adults taking DTG-based regimens in Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. Methods A retrospective cohort study was carried out among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) taking DTG-based HAART regimens by way of record review. SPSS was used for analysis, and both binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to test associated factors. Results Among the 422 participants' records reviewed, 62.8% were female (median age 40 years, IQR=13). The prevalence of virological non-suppression was 4.2%. Poor adherence to HAART was significantly associated with virological non-suppression, with 100.3 increased adjusted odds (95% CI: 28.90-348.12, p<0.001) compared to those with a record of good adherence. The reasons for poor adherence included alcohol use, stigma, forgetting to take medication, transport problems, and irregular timing of swallowing. Conclusion This study found poor adherence to be associated with a 4.2% prevalence of virological non-suppression among PLWHIV in a large public HIV care clinic. Despite the high suppression rates on DTG-based regimens, adherence counseling and viral load monitoring need to be emphasized at all HIV care centers to mark the trends of virological non-suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florence Kabiibi
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Robert Tamukong
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Tadele Mekuriya Yadesa
- Department of Pharmacy, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Kampala International University, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rathbone A, Cartwright N, Cummings L, Noble R, Budaiova K, Ashton M, Foster J, Payne B, Duncan S. Exploring young people's attitudes to HIV prevention medication (PrEP) in England: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e077733. [PMID: 38503414 PMCID: PMC10953311 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young people aged 18-24 years old are a key demographic target for eliminating HIV transmission globally. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a prevention medication, reduces HIV transmission. Despite good uptake by gay and bisexual men who have sex with men, hesitancy to use PrEP has been observed in other groups, such as young people and people from ethnic minority backgrounds. The aim of this study was to explore young people's perceptions and attitudes to using PrEP. DESIGN A qualitative transcendental phenomenological design was used. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING A convenience sample of 24 young people aged between 18 and 24 years was recruited from England. METHODS Semistructured interviews and graphical elicitation were used to collect data including questions about current experiences of HIV care, awareness of using PrEP and decision-making about accessing PrEP. Thematic and visual analyses were used to identify findings. RESULTS Young people had good levels of knowledge about HIV but poor understanding of using PrEP. In this information vacuum, negative stigma and stereotypes about HIV and homosexuality were transferred to using PrEP, which were reinforced by cultural norms portrayed on social media, television and film-such as an association between using PrEP and being a promiscuous, white, gay male. In addition, young people from ethnic minority communities appeared to have negative attitudes to PrEP use, compared with ethnic majority counterparts. This meant these young people in our study were unable to make decisions about when and how to use PrEP. CONCLUSION Findings indicate an information vacuum for young people regarding PrEP. A strength of the study is that theoretical data saturation was reached. A limitation of the study is participants were largely from Northern England, which has low prevalence of HIV. Further work is required to explore the information needs of young people in relation to PrEP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Rathbone
- Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Mark Ashton
- Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Jonathan Foster
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Sarah Duncan
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Comfort AB, Asiimwe S, Amaniyre G, Orrell C, Moody J, Musinguzi N, Bwana MB, Bangsberg DR, Haberer JE, Tsai AC. Social networks and HIV treatment adherence among people with HIV initiating treatment in rural Uganda and peri-urban South Africa. SSM Popul Health 2024; 25:101593. [PMID: 38292051 PMCID: PMC10825562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Timely initiation of and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is critical for improving HIV outcomes and reducing HIV transmissibility. Social networks, or the social relationships individuals have with each other, have been linked with positive health outcomes, but less is known about the extent to which social network composition and structure are associated with improved ART adherence among people living with HIV (PLWH). We conducted an ego-centric network study among 828 previously ART-naïve PLWH presenting for ART initiation at 11 clinics in Mbarara, Uganda (rural population) and Gugulethu, South Africa (peri-urban population). We collected social network data using name generator and name interpreter questions. ART adherence was monitored over 12 months using wireless monitors (Wisepill). Our primary outcome of interest was ART adherence during the 12-month follow-up period. We used generalized linear models to estimate the associations between network measures and ART adherence. PLWH at the Uganda site (compared with the South Africa site) were less isolated, had larger social networks, and had more social ties providing sufficient social support; they were also more likely to bridge different social groups whereby not all social ties were connected to each other. In Uganda, social isolation was associated with a 5.5 percentage point reduction in ART adherence (95% confidence interval [CI] -9.95 to -1.13; p = 0.014), while having more same gender social ties was associated with higher ART adherence (b = 0.13, 95% CI 0.02-0.25, p = 0.025). In South Africa, there was no association between social isolation and ART adherence, and having more friendship ties (vs. family ties) was associated with lower ART adherence (b = -2.20, 95% CI -3.56 to -0.84; p = 0.002). Identifying and supporting PLWH who are isolated may facilitate optimal adherence, but understanding how networks differentially affect ART adherence by country context is important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alison B. Comfort
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94143-1224, USA
| | - Stephen Asiimwe
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Gideon Amaniyre
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Plot 4B P.O.Box 7072 Kololo Hill Dr, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Orrell
- Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, 3 Woodlands Rd, Woodstock, 7915, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - James Moody
- Department of Sociology, 268 Soc/Psych Building, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0088, USA
| | - Nicholas Musinguzi
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Mwebesa Bosco Bwana
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P. O. Box 1410, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Jessica E. Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 722, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Alexander C. Tsai
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, 125 Nashua Street, Suite 722, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Mahlalela NB, Manne-Goehler J, Ohene-Kwofie D, B Adams L, Montana L, Kahn K, Rohr JK, Bärnighausen T, Gómez-Olivé FX. The Association Between HIV-Related Stigma and the Uptake of HIV Testing and ART Among Older Adults in Rural South Africa: Findings from the HAALSI Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1104-1121. [PMID: 38286975 PMCID: PMC10896802 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04222-w] [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] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) remain critical for curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS, but stigma can impede access to these services. Using data from the Health and Aging in Africa: A Longitudinal Study of an INDEPTH Community in South Africa (HAALSI), we used a multivariable logistic regression to examine the correlation between HIV-related stigma, HIV testing and ART uptake in older adults. We used four questions to measure stigma, with three assessing social stigma (reflecting social distancing preferences) and one assessing anticipated stigma (disclosure concern). We combined the three social stigma questions to generate a social stigma score ranging from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating higher stigma. Anticipated stigma was prevalent 85% (95% CI 0.84-0.86), and social stigma was also frequent 25% (95% CI 0.24-0.27). Higher social stigma scores correlated with decreased HIV testing for all participants with social stigma. Compared to those with a score of 0, odds of testing decreased with higher stigma scores (OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.53-0.81, p = 0.000) for a score of 1 and (OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.38-0.83, p = 0.004) for a score of 3. ART uptake also decreased with higher social stigma scores among people living with HIV (PLWH), although it was significant for those with a score of 2 (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.87, p = 0.020). These findings emphasize that HIV-related stigma hampers testing and ART uptake among older adults in rural South Africa. Addressing stigma is crucial for improving testing rates, early diagnosis, and treatment initiation among the older population and achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nomsa B Mahlalela
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Jennifer Manne-Goehler
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Ohene-Kwofie
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Leslie B Adams
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Livia Montana
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The DHS Program, ICF, Rockville MD, USA
| | - Kathleen Kahn
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Julia K Rohr
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Mtubatuba, South Africa
| | - Francesc X Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Nutor JJ, Gyamerah AO, Duah HO, Asakitogum DA, Thompson RGA, Alhassan RK, Hamilton A. The association of HIV-related stigma and psychosocial factors and HIV treatment outcomes among people living with HIV in the Volta region of Ghana: A mixed-methods study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002994. [PMID: 38422060 PMCID: PMC10903797 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Stigma and discrimination have been identified as significant barriers to HIV treatment among people living with HIV (PLWH). HIV stigma affects decision to seek HIV testing and early treatment. Evidence shows that HIV stigma undermines antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence by affecting the psychological process such as adjusting and coping with social support. In Ghana, stigma toward PLWH occurs in many ways including rejection by their communities and family members, ostracism, and refusal to engage in social interactions such as eating, sharing a bed, or shaking hands. Therefore. we examined PLWH's experiences with different forms of HIV-related stigma and the impact on HIV treatment outcome in the Volta region of Ghana. We employed a convergent mixed-method approach consisting of a survey with 181 PLWH, four focus group discussions with 24 survey respondents, and in-depth interviews with six providers. We performed independent samples t-test, ANOVA, and chi-square test to test associations in bivariate analysis and analyzed qualitative data using thematic analysis. In all, 49% of survey respondents reported experiencing high internalized stigma, which was associated with high social support and depression (p<0.001). In qualitative interviews, anticipated stigma was the most salient concern of PLWH, followed by internalized and enacted stigma, which all negatively impacted HIV treatment and care. Stigma was experienced on multiple levels and affected psychosocial and treatment outcomes. Findings suggest urgent need for HIV-stigma reduction intervention among PLWH and their family, providers, and community members.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerry John Nutor
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Akua O. Gyamerah
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University of Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Henry Ofori Duah
- College of Nursing, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - David Ayangba Asakitogum
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Rachel G. A. Thompson
- Language Center, College of Humanities, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
| | - Robert Kaba Alhassan
- Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research, Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Alison Hamilton
- VA Health Services Research & Development Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation & Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Colpani A, De Vito A, Zauli B, Menzaghi B, Calcagno A, Celesia BM, Ceccarelli M, Nunnari G, De Socio GV, Di Biagio A, Leoni N, Angioni G, Giambenedetto SD, D'Ettorre G, Babudieri S, Madeddu G. Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV among People Living with HIV: Should We Be Concerned? Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:417. [PMID: 38391793 PMCID: PMC10888293 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12040417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Poor knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among people with HIV (PLHIV) could worsen life quality. We aimed to investigate their STI and HIV knowledge, disclosure and undetectable = untransmittable (U=U). We proposed an anonymous questionnaire regarding STI and HIV to PLHIV attending ten Italian outpatient infectious diseases clinics. Moreover, disclosure and U=U were investigated. The calculated sample size was 178 people. Considering a missing response of 10%, the final sample size was 196. We enrolled 200 PLHIV (73.5% males), with a median age of 52.5 (IQR 41-59) years. The mean score was 7.61 ± 1.22 with no difference by gender, education, and employment. Significant statistical difference was observed by sexual orientation; bisexuals and those who preferred not to answer had a lower score than heterosexuals and MSM (p = 0.0032). PLHIV showed poor knowledge about HIV transmission (25% appropriately answered). Nearly 30% responded that virologically suppressed PLHIV could transmit the infection. Finally, 137 (68.5%) and 158 (79.0%) disclosed to the general practitioner and family and friends, respectively. Nearly 52.0% knew the meaning of U=U, and 83.6% highlighted its positive rebound. In conclusion, important knowledge gaps are present among PLHIV regarding U=U, and its implications are little-known. Improving PLHIVs' awareness will undermine self-stigma and enhance life quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnese Colpani
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Vito
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Beatrice Zauli
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Barbara Menzaghi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, "Ospedale di Circolo", 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy
| | - Andrea Calcagno
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10123 Torino, Italy
| | - Benedetto Maurizio Celesia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Manuela Ceccarelli
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nunnari
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Di Biagio
- Infectious Diseases Clinic, IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Hospital, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicola Leoni
- Unit of Infectious Disease, SS Trinità Hospital, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Goffredo Angioni
- Unit of Infectious Disease, SS Trinità Hospital, 09121 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Di Giambenedetto
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella D'Ettorre
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Katusiime B, Cassidy R, Krska J, Corlett SA. Medicine burden experiences of people living with HIV and association with stigma. AIDS Care 2024; 36:227-237. [PMID: 37848005 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2264557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
The medicine burden of people living with HIV (PLWH) is unknown. Between 2018 and 2020, participants completed a survey comprising outcome measures for medicine burden (LMQ-3) and stigma experiences (SSCI-8). Participants were HIV+ adults (≥18 years), using antiretrovirals (ARV) with or without non-ARV medicines, recruited via two outpatient clinics in southeast England and online via HIV charities across the UK. Spearman's correlations between medicine burden levels and stigma scores were calculated. Participants were mostly males (72%, 101/141) of mean (SD) age 48.6 (±12.31) years. Total number of medicines ranged from 1-20. High medicine burden was self-reported by 21.3% (30) and was associated with polypharmacy (≥ 5 medicines) (101.52 Vs 85.08, p = 0.006); multiple doses versus once daily regimes (109.31 Vs 85.65, p = 0.001); unemployment (98.23 Vs 84.46, p = 0.004); and ethnicity (97 Vs 86.85, p = 0.041 for non-White versus White participants). A correlation between medicine burden and stigma was observed (r = 0.576, p < 0.001). The LMQ-3 demonstrated adequate construct validity and reliability (domain loadings ranging 0.617-0.933 and Cronbach's α of 0.714-0.932). Assessment of medicine burden and psychosocial stigma in PLWH could enable identification of those needing additional support in future research and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Katusiime
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University London, UK
| | - R Cassidy
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - J Krska
- Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Kent and Greenwich, Chatham, UK
| | - S A Corlett
- Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Kent and Greenwich, Chatham, UK
- Clinical Trials, Research and Innovation, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, Windmill Road, Gillingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chen WT, Huang F, Shiu CS, Lin SH, Tun MS, Nwe TW, Oo YTN, Oo HN. Can social support mediate stigma and perceived stress in people live with human immunodeficiency virus? AIDS Care 2024; 36:255-262. [PMID: 37674375 PMCID: PMC10842375 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2254545] [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: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Stigma has heavily impacted People Living with HIV (PLWH). Limited studies report on how social support affects HIV-related stigma and perceived stress, especially in Myanmar. During first seven months of 2020, a random sample of 248 eligible PLWH were contacted from a private, closed Facebook group with more than 18,000 Myanmar people, where 90% of the members were PLWH. Variables collected included demographics data, perceived stress, social support, and HIV stigma. After controlling for the effects of demographic variables, the path from HIV stigma to perceived stress (direct effect β = 0.40) and though the mediation of social support was significant (indirect effect β = 0.014). However, the mediating effect of social support was non-significant between HIV stigma and perceived stress. This exploratory study shows that social support did not have the expected effect of decreasing perceived stress in PLWH in Myanmar. Interventions to reduce HIV stigma to decrease perceived stress should consider other strategies, e.g., spirituality-based practice, to reduce perceived stress in Myanmar PLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Ti Chen
- School of Nursing, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Feifei Huang
- School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Shi Shiu
- Department of Social Work, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sai Htun Lin
- Human Rights & Technical Services Department, Secretariat Office, Myanmar Positive Group (MPG), Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Min San Tun
- Human Rights & Technical Services Department, Secretariat Office, Myanmar Positive Group (MPG), Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Thet Wai Nwe
- National AIDS Program, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health and Sports, Naypyidaw, Myanmar
| | - Yin Thet Nu Oo
- Health System Research Division, Department of Medical Research, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Htun Nyunt Oo
- National AIDS Program, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health and Sports, Naypyidaw, Myanmar
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Fisk-Hoffman RJ, Woody A, Prosperi M, Cook RL, Cook C, Vaddiparti K. Assessing HIV-related stigma in the clinical setting: are providers in Florida interested? AIDS Care 2024; 36:248-254. [PMID: 37939211 PMCID: PMC10842875 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2279981] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a key contributor to poor HIV-related health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to explore implementing a stigma measure into routine HIV care focusing on the 10-item Medical Monitoring Project measure as a proposed measure. Healthcare providers engaged in HIV-related care in Florida were recruited. Participants completed an interview about their perceptions of measures to assess stigma during clinical care. The analysis followed a directed content approach. Fifteen participants completed the interviews (87% female, 47% non-Hispanic White, case manager 40%). Most providers thought that talking about stigma would be helpful (89%). Three major themes emerged from the analysis: acceptability, subscales of interest, and utility. In acceptability, participants mentioned that assessing stigma could encourage patient-centered care and serve as a conversation starter, but some mentioned not having enough time. Participants thought that the disclosure concerns and negative self-image subscales were most relevant. Some worried they would not have resources for patients or that some issues were beyond their influence. Participants were generally supportive of routinely addressing HIV-related stigma in clinical care, but were concerned that resources, especially to address concerns about disclosure and negative self-image, were not available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Fisk-Hoffman
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Aislinn Woody
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - Mattia Prosperi
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Robert L. Cook
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Christa Cook
- College of Nursing, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL
| | - Krishna Vaddiparti
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health & Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tam C, Wang L, Salters K, Moore D, Wesseling T, Grieve S, Parry R, Barath J, Hogg R, Barrios R. Evaluating experiences of HIV-related stigma among people living with HIV diagnosed in different treatment eras in British Columbia, Canada. AIDS Care 2024; 36:238-247. [PMID: 37963415 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2277150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
There is mixed evidence on whether experiences of HIV-related stigma are mitigated with lived experience. We sought to examine whether people living with HIV (PLWH) with longer living experience reported varying levels of HIV-related stigma. Between January 2016-September 2018, we used purposive sampling to enrol PLWH aged ≥19 across British Columbia, Canada, where participants completed the 10-item Berger HIV Stigma Scale. We conducted bivariate analyzes examining key sociodemographic characteristics and HIV-related stigma scores. Multivariable linear regression modelled the association between year of HIV diagnosis by treatment era and HIV-related stigma scores. We enrolled 644 participants; median age at enrolment was 50 years (Q1-Q3: 42-56), with 37.4% (n = 241) diagnosed before the year 2000. The median HIV-stigma scores of all participants (19.0, Q1-Q3: 13-25, range 0-40) stratified by treatment era were: 17.0 (pre-1996), 20.0 (1996-1999), 20.0 (2000-2009), 19.0 (2010-2018) (p = 0.03). While there was a significant association at the univariate level, year of HIV diagnosis by treatment era was not associated with stigma scores after controlling for age, gender, HIV key populations, ethnicity, relationship status, social support, and ever having a mental health disorder diagnosis. This suggests that PLWH still experience HIV-related stigma today, compared to those diagnosed in earlier time periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Tam
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lu Wang
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kate Salters
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - David Moore
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Tim Wesseling
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sean Grieve
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Rebeccah Parry
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Justin Barath
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert Hogg
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Rolando Barrios
- Epidemiology and Population Health Program, British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Horsakulchai W, Sermprasartkul T, Sumetchoengprachya P, Chummaneekul P, Rungruang N, Uthis P, Sripan P, Srithanaviboonchai K. Factors associated with internalized HIV-related stigma among people living with HIV in Thailand. AIDS Care 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38289537 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Internalized HIV-related stigma (IHS) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) has been documented as one of the factors contributing to the ongoing AIDS epidemic. The purpose of this study, which was conducted from September 2021 to January 2022, was to measure prevalence and identify factors associated with IHS among research participants who were living with HIV recruited from a research clinic in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. Participants were considered to have IHS if they agreed to at least one of the 8 items of the newly developed Thai Internalized HIV-related Stigma Scale (Thai-IHSS). Of the 104 participants, 65.4% were female. The median age was 51.5 years and the duration of known HIV infection was 19.0 years. Fifty-three percent of the participants had IHS as defined by the study. Reduced probability of having IHS was independently associated with certain levels of education (middle or high school education compared with no or primary school) (AOR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.12-0.77) and increased mental health-related quality of life (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.18-0.86). The prevalence of IHS among PLHIV in Chiang Mai was high. These findings highlight the requirement for comprehensive mental health care programs for PLHIV to improve their quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Penpaktr Uthis
- Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patumrat Sripan
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kriengkrai Srithanaviboonchai
- Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Terefe B, Jembere MM. Discrimination against HIV/AIDS patients and associated factors among women in East African countries: using the most recent DHS data (2015-2022). JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2024; 43:3. [PMID: 38167573 PMCID: PMC10759423 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-023-00491-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The biggest health problem in East Africa is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Combating stigma and discrimination related to HIV/AIDS is a key goal of many international organizations in their efforts to ensure universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, care, and support programs. However, previous studies in various regions of Africa have shown that the prevalence of discriminatory attitudes related to HIV/AIDS is particularly high. Furthermore, there is a current evidence gap in the region. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of discriminatory attitude toward HIV/AIDS patients, and its associated factors among women in East African countries. METHODS The data we utilized were gathered from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), which were carried out in east African nations between 2016 and 2022. We integrated DHS data from ten countries into our investigation. For our analysis, a weighted sample of 139,812 women overall was employed. The analysis used multiple logistic regressions. The adjusted odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were then shown, and components with binary logistic regression p values of less than or equal to 0.2 and < 0.05 were regarded as significant predictors of discrimination against HIV/AIDS patients. RESULTS In this study, 32.73% (95% CI 34.48-32.97) of respondents had a discriminatory attitude toward HIV/AIDS patients. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, being in the older age groups, having a better education level, being from a wealthy household, having employment status, having ANC follow-up, institutional delivery, mass media exposure, and having female household heads were associated with higher odds of not having a discriminatory attitude toward HIV/AIDS patients. However, being unmarried and living far from the health facilities were associated with higher odds of discriminatory attitudes toward HIV/AIDS patients. CONCLUSION This study concluded that women in East Africa still had a very discriminatory attitude toward HIV/AIDS patients. The good news for East Africa is that prevalence has decreased when compared to earlier findings. Improving women's empowerment, maternal health services, and health facilities' accessibility are crucial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bewuketu Terefe
- Department of Community Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Post Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Mahlet Moges Jembere
- Department of Emergency, and Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Burns PA, Klukas E, Sims-Gomillia C, Omondi A, Bender M, Poteat T. As Much As I Can - Utilizing Immersive Theatre to Reduce HIV-Related Stigma and Discrimination Toward Black Sexual Minority Men. COMMUNITY HEALTH EQUITY RESEARCH & POLICY 2024; 44:151-163. [PMID: 36189845 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x221115920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advances in biomedical HIV prevention modalities such as pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent the transmission of HIV, racial/ethnic and sexual/gender minority populations are disproportionately impacted by HIV epidemic. Alarming rates of HIV have persisted among Black gay and bisexual men, particularly in Southern states. METHODS Utilizing data from the ViiV ACCELERATE! initiative, we explored the impact of As Much As I Can, an immersive theatre production, on HIV-related stigma behaviors. A self-administered post-performance survey was conducted with a cohort (n = 322) of randomly selected audience members. RESULTS Overall, the results showed participants had a highly favorable experience, rating the performance with a mean score of 9.77/10. Respondents indicated they intended to change behaviors to promote HIV prevention education and to reduce stigma and discrimination including: (1) Say something if I hear stigmatizing language against people living with HIV (75.4%), (2) Say something if I hear anti-gay language (69.7%) and (3) Tell others about HIV prevention options (e.g., PrEP, PEP, condoms (64.1%). The findings show there is an association between HIV-related behavior intention and linkage to HIV care. Respondents who reported they were more likely to say something about HIV stigma were almost three times (O.R. 2.77; 95% C.I. 0.98-7.8) more likely to indicate they would follow up with a healthcare professional. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that immersive theatre is an effective method for communicating HIV prevention education and reducing HIV-related structural stigma and discrimination that increases HIV vulnerability for Black sexual minority men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Burns
- John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | | | - Courtney Sims-Gomillia
- John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Angela Omondi
- John D. Bower School of Population Health, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Melverta Bender
- Mississippi State Department of Health/Office of STD/HIV, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Tonia Poteat
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Han WM, Broom J, Bopage R, Templeton DJ, Edmiston N, Petoumenos K. Investigating rates and predictors of viral blips, low-level viraemia and virological failure in the Australian HIV observational database. Trop Med Int Health 2024; 29:42-56. [PMID: 38009461 PMCID: PMC11108647 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13951] [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: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Australia has made significant progress towards achieving the UNAIDS's 95-95-95 cascade targets including HIV viral suppression. To investigate the burden of HIV viraemia, we assessed viral blips, low-level viraemia (LLV) and virologic failure (VF) in an Australian cohort. METHODS We studied the proportion of people with viral suppression, viral blips, LLV and VF in the Australian HIV observational database (AHOD) between 2010 and 2021. The association between blips or LLV, and VF was investigated using Cox regression, and predictors of viral blips and LLV were assessed using repeated-measured logistic regression. RESULTS Among 2544 AHOD participants who were in follow-up and on antiretroviral therapy (ART) from 1 January 2010 (88.7% male), 444 had experienced VF (incidence rate: 2.45 [95% CI: 2.23-2.69] per 100 person-years [PY]) during 18,125 PY of follow-up (a median of 7.6 years). The proportion of people with VF decreased over time, whereas rates of blips and LLV remained stable. Participants with blips (hazard ratio, 2.89; 95% CI: 2.31-3.61) and LLV (4.46; 95% CI: 3.38-5.89) were at increased risk of VF. Hepatitis B co-infection, longer documented treatment interruption duration, younger age and lower CD4 at ART initiation, and protease inhibitors-based initial regimen were associated with an increased risk of VF. Common predictors of blips and LLV such as higher HIV-1 RNA and lower CD4 at ART initiation, longer treatment interruption, more VL testing and types of care settings (hospitals vs. sexual health services) were identified. CONCLUSIONS Blips and LLV predict subsequent VF development. We identified important predictors of HIV viraemia including VF among individuals on INSTI-based regimens to help direct HIV management plans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Win Min Han
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer Broom
- Infectious Diseases Research Network, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Rohan Bopage
- Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre and Westmead Clinical School, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - David J Templeton
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Sexual Health Medicine and Sexual Assault Medical Service, Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, Australia
- Discipline of Medicine, Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Natalie Edmiston
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Basta D, Latinovic OS, Tagaya Y, Silvestri G. Potential Advantages of a Well-balanced Nutrition Regimen for People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type -1. JOURNAL OF AIDS AND HIV TREATMENT 2024; 6:11-27. [PMID: 38845818 PMCID: PMC11155617 DOI: 10.33696/aids.6.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
This review underscores the important role of nutrition in enhancing the management of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1). Highlighting the efficacy of dietary interventions, including, the importance of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins D and B-12, and the Mediterranean diet, we delineate how these beneficial nutritional strategies can improve the effectiveness of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART), mitigate its side effects, and ameliorate metabolic disorders in people living with HIV-1 (PLWH). Our review advocates for the integration and implementation of personalized nutritional assessments into the care plan for PLWH, proposing actionable strategies for healthcare providers in HIV-1 field. Summarizing the current standing of the relevance of the nutritional and well-planned diet recommended for the PLWH and emphasizing on the future research directions, this review establishes a foundation for nutrition as a cornerstone in comprehensive HIV-1 management. Our review aims to improve patients' health outcomes and overall quality of life for PLWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Basta
- Green Home scarl, Scientific Committee, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Olga S. Latinovic
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Yutaka Tagaya
- Division of Virology, Pathogenesis, and Cancer, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Giovannino Silvestri
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Mendez-Lopez A, White TM, Fuster-RuizdeApodaca MJ, Lazarus JV. Prevalence and sociodemographic determinants of public stigma towards people with HIV and its impact on HIV testing uptake: A cross-sectional study in 64 low- and middle-income countries. HIV Med 2024; 25:83-94. [PMID: 37671459 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV stigma and discrimination are drivers of adverse HIV outcomes because they deter individuals from engaging in the HIV care continuum. We estimate the prevalence of public stigma towards people with HIV, investigate individuals' sociodemographic determinants for reporting stigmatizing attitudes, and test the impact of HIV stigma on HIV testing uptake. METHODS This was an observational study based on an analysis of cross-sectional surveys from 64 low- and middle-income countries. We used nationally representative survey data for the population aged 15-49 years from 2015 to 2021, which was the latest available data. HIV public stigma was measured using an index of two questions about attitudes towards people with HIV. First, prevalence estimates of HIV stigma were calculated by country, across countries, and by sociodemographic characteristics. Second, country fixed-effects multivariable logistic regression models were fit to assess sociodemographic determinants of holding stigmatizing attitudes towards people with HIV. Additional logistic regression models assessed country-level income and HIV prevalence as determinants of stigma and assessed the role of HIV public stigma as a driver of testing uptake. RESULTS A total of 1 172 841 participants were included in the study. HIV stigma was prevalent in all countries, ranging from 12.87% in Rwanda to 90.58% in Samoa. There was an inverse dose-response association between HIV stigma and educational level, wealth quintile, and age group, whereby higher levels of each were associated with lower odds of holding stigmatized attitudes towards people with HIV. The odds of stigmatized attitudes were lower among men and individuals with adequate knowledge of HIV. HIV stigma was lower in countries with greater gross domestic product per capita and HIV prevalence. Holding stigmatized attitudes towards people with HIV was associated with lower testing uptake, including having ever tested or having tested in the last year. CONCLUSION HIV stigma is present to a highly varying degree in all countries studied, so different approaches to reducing stigma towards people with HIV are required across settings. Action to eliminate HIV stigma is crucial if we are to progress towards ending HIV because holding stigmatized attitudes towards people with HIV was associated with reduced testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Mendez-Lopez
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Public Health, and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Trenton M White
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María José Fuster-RuizdeApodaca
- Department of Social Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
- Spanish AIDS Interdisciplinary Society (SEISIDA), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Musanje K, Kamya MR, Kasujja R, Vanderplasschen W, Sinclair DL, Baluku MM, Odokonyero RF, Namisi CP, Mukisa J, White RG, Camlin CS. The Effect of a Group-Based Mindfulness and Acceptance Training on Psychological Flexibility and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents in Uganda: An Open-Label Randomized Trial. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241236260. [PMID: 38446992 PMCID: PMC10919136 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241236260] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is lower in adolescents with HIV (AWH) than in any other age group, partly due to self-regulatory challenges during development. Mindfulness and acceptance training have been shown to support psychological flexibility, a self-regulatory skill that potentially improves adolescent adherence to medication. We assessed the effect of weekly group-based mindfulness and acceptance training sessions on ART adherence among older adolescents (15-19 years) in Kampala, Uganda. One hundred and twenty-two AWH (median age 17, range 15-19 years, 57% female) receiving care at a public health facility in Kampala were randomized 1:1 to receive 4 weekly 90-min group sessions facilitated by experienced trainers or standard-of-care ART services. The training involved (Session 1) clarifying values, (Session 2) skillfully relating to thoughts, (Session 3) allowing and becoming aware of experiences non-judgmentally, and (Session 4) exploring life through trial and error. At baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up, psychological flexibility was measured using the Avoidance and Fusion Questionnaire for Youth (AFQ-Y8), and self-reported ART adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). At baseline, the intervention and standard-of-care arms had similar psychological flexibility (AFQ-Y8 score:15.45 ± 0.82; 15.74 ± 0.84) and ART adherence (MMAS-8 score: 5.32 ± 0.24; 5.13 ± 0.23). Retention through the study was moderate (71%). Completion of mindfulness and acceptance training was associated with a significant reduction in psychological inflexibility at the 3-month follow-up (AFQ-Y8 score: 12.63 ± 1.06; 14.05 ± 1.07, P = .006). However, no significant differences were observed in self-reported adherence to ART at the 3-month follow-up (MMAS-8 score: 5.43 ± 0.23; 4.90 ± 0.33, P = .522). Group-based mindfulness and acceptance training improved psychological flexibility in this population of adolescents on ART in Uganda but did not significantly improve ART adherence. Future research should explore integrated approaches that combine behavioral management training with other empowerment aspects to improve ART adherence among AWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khamisi Musanje
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Educational, Social and Organizational Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rosco Kasujja
- Department of Mental Health and Community Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Martin M. Baluku
- Department of Educational, Social and Organizational Psychology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Charles P. Namisi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Mukisa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ross G. White
- School of Psychology, Queens University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Gillette E, Nyandiko W, Baum A, Chory A, Aluoch J, Ashimosi C, Lidweye J, Njorge T, Sang F, Nyagaya J, Scanlon M, Vreeman R. Comparison of Self and Caregiver Reports of Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence among Children and Adolescents Living with HIV in Western Kenya. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2024; 23:23259582241242335. [PMID: 38562058 PMCID: PMC10989044 DOI: 10.1177/23259582241242335] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth living with HIV with perinatal infection spend a lifetime taking antiretroviral treatment (ART) to suppress the virus, and face significant challenges to successfully maintaining ART adherence. Tools to measure adherence include self-report, medication event monitoring system (MEMS) pill bottle caps, pill counts, and plasma or hair drug levels; however, the inter-rater agreement between child and caregiver self-report has not been validated in an African setting. This study aims to assess inter-rater agreement between child and caregiver self-reports, compared to reporting from MEMS pill bottle caps. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of a cluster-randomized trial to evaluate an intervention for children living with HIV, conducted at the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare in western Kenya. We analyzed data from 285 child-caregiver dyads to compare adherence self-reported by children and their caregivers, and subsequently compared all self-reports to adherence reported by MEMS pill bottle caps to determine whether child or caregiver self-reports aligned more closely with adherence measured by MEMS. RESULTS Children and their caregivers reported similar levels of adherence and numbers of missed doses in the past month, and both reports were similarly associated with adherence reported by MEMS pill bottle caps. Children with a caregiver that was not a biological parent were significantly more likely to report more missed doses than their caregiver. The correlation coefficient for the relationship between the child and caregiver self-reports was 0.71; for the relationship between child report and MEMS was 0.23; and for the relationship between caregiver report and MEMS was 0.20. Both children and caregivers under-reported non-adherence compared to MEMS data. CONCLUSION Children and caregiver self-reports were generally similar in reporting adherence and were not highly correlated with MEMS reports of adherence, with children and caregivers reporting higher level of adherence than the MEMS data. This may indicate that children and caregiver reports are similarly inaccurate or biased; however, further research with larger sample sizes is required to further understand the differences in these reports.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Gillette
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Winstone Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Aaron Baum
- Waymark Care, San Fransico, United States
| | - Ashley Chory
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Janet Lidweye
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Tabitha Njorge
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Festus Sang
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Jack Nyagaya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Michael Scanlon
- Center for Global Health Equity, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
| | - Rachel Vreeman
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Jiao K, Ma J, Lin Y, Li Y, Yan Y, Cheng C, Jia W, Meng J, Wang L, Cao Y, Zhao Z, Yang X, Liao M, Kang D, Wang C, Ma W. Effectiveness of instant versus text messaging intervention on antiretroviral therapy adherence among men who have sex with men living with HIV. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241257447. [PMID: 38840657 PMCID: PMC11151765 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241257447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of instant versus text messaging intervention (TMI) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV. Methods This study was conducted in an infectious disease hospital of Jinan, China from October 2020 to June 2021, using non-randomized concurrent controlled design to compare the effectiveness of instant messaging intervention (IMI) versus TMI. The intervention strategies (health messaging, medication reminder, and peer education) and contents were consistent between the two groups, and the difference was service delivery method and type of information. The primary outcome was the proportion of achieving optimal ART adherence, defined as never missing any doses and delayed any doses more than 1 hour. Results A total of 217 participants (including 72 in TMI group and 145 in IMI group) were included in the study. The proportion of achieving optimal adherence was higher in IMI group than TMI group at the first follow-up (90.2% versus 77.6%, p = 0.021) and second follow-up (86.5% versus 76.6%, p = 0.083). The effect of IMI versus TMI on improving ART adherence was found not to be statistically significant (risk ratio (RR) = 1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95-3.94) in complete-case analysis. However, when excluding participants who did not adhere to the interventions, a significant improvement was observed (RR = 2.77, 95%CI: 1.21-6.38). More participants in IMI group expressed highly rated satisfaction to the intervention services than those in TMI group (67.3% versus 50.0%). Conclusions The IMI demonstrated superior efficacy over TMI in improving ART adherence and satisfaction with intervention services. It is suggested that future digital health interventions targeting ART adherence should prioritize instant messaging with multimedia information in areas with Internet access. Trial registration The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (ChiCTR), with number [ChiCTR2000041282].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kedi Jiao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuxi Lin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yijun Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yu Yan
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunxiao Cheng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenwen Jia
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing Meng
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lina Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yanwen Cao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhonghui Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xuan Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Meizhen Liao
- Institution for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Dianmin Kang
- Institution for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunmei Wang
- Department of AIDS/STD, Shandong Public Health Clinical Center, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Nawfal ES, Gray A, Sheehan DM, Ibañez GE, Trepka MJ. A Systematic Review of the Impact of HIV-Related Stigma and Serostatus Disclosure on Retention in Care and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Women with HIV in the United States/Canada. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:23-49. [PMID: 38150524 PMCID: PMC10794841 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review explores the roles of HIV stigma and disclosure of HIV serostatus in antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and retention in care (RIC) among women with HIV (WHIV) in the United States and Canada. We conducted a systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Google scholar) to identify peer-reviewed articles published between January 1996 and December 2022. The search yielded 1120 articles after duplicates were removed. Of these, 27 articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority (89%) of the studies were conducted in the United States. The studies included WHIV from diverse racial/ethnic groups, residing in both urban and rural areas. Most of the studies suggested that internalized stigma, perceived community stigma, and fear of disclosure were important barriers to ART adherence and RIC among WHIV. HIV-related stigma experienced within the health care setting was also reported as a factor impacting health care utilization. A few studies identified mental health distress as a potential mechanism accounting for the association and suggested that social support and resilience may buffer the negative effects of stigma and disclosure on ART adherence and RIC among WHIV. Our review indicates that stigma and concerns about disclosure continue to significantly affect HIV health outcomes for WHIV in high-income countries. It underscores the importance of integrated HIV care services and interventions targeting mental health, resilience building, and improved patient-provider relationships for WHIV to enhance ART adherence and RIC. Longitudinal studies and investigations into additional mechanisms are needed to advance understanding and inform women-centered interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ekpereka Sandra Nawfal
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Aaliyah Gray
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Diana M. Sheehan
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
- Research Center for Minority Institutions, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Gladys E. Ibañez
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
- Research Center for Minority Institutions, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Silva MST, Coutinho C, Torres TS, Peixoto EM, Bastos MO, Mesquita MB, Tavares ICF, Andrade HB, Reges PPS, Martins PS, Echeverría-Guevara A, Moreira RI, Lessa FCS, Hoagland B, Nunes EP, Cardoso SW, Veloso VG, Grinsztejn B. Mpox severity and associated hospitalizations among people with HIV and related immunosuppression in Brazil. AIDS 2024; 38:105-113. [PMID: 37812389 PMCID: PMC10715691 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to analyze characteristics of mpox hospitalization in a Brazilian cohort, further exploring the impact of HIV on mpox-related outcomes and hospitalization. DESIGN We conducted a descriptive analysis, comparing characteristics of individuals diagnosed with mpox according to hospitalization and HIV status, and described the mpox cases among those living with HIV. METHODS This was a single-center, prospective cohort study conducted at a major infectious diseases referral center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, that enrolled participants older than 18 years of age diagnosed with mpox. Information was collected on standardized forms, including data on sociodemographic, behavioral, clinical and laboratory characteristics. For comparisons, we used chi-squared, Fisher's exact and the Moods median tests whenever appropriate. RESULTS From June to December, 2022, we enrolled 418 individuals diagnosed with mpox, of whom 52% were people with HIV (PWH). PWH presented more frequently with fever, anogenital lesions and proctitis. The overall hospitalization rate was 10.5% ( n = 43), especially for pain control. Among hospitalized participants, PWH had more proctitis and required invasive support. Mpox severity was related to poor HIV continuum of care outcomes and low CD4 + cell counts. All deaths ( n = 2) occurred in PWH with CD4 + less than 50 cells/μl. CONCLUSION HIV-related immunosuppression likely impacts mpox clinical outcomes. This is of special concern in settings of poor adherence and late presentation to care related to socioeconomic inequalities, such as Brazil. The HIV continuum of care must be taken into account when responding to the mpox outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayara S T Silva
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI-Fiocruz), Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Morse RM, Brown J, Gage JC, Prieto BA, Jurczuk M, Matos A, Vásquez Vásquez J, Reátegui RR, Meza-Sanchez G, Córdova LAD, Gravitt PE, Tracy JK, Paz-Soldan VA. "Easy women get it": pre-existing stigma associated with HPV and cervical cancer in a low-resource setting prior to implementation of an HPV screen-and-treat program. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2396. [PMID: 38042779 PMCID: PMC10693157 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17324-w] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer is preventable with vaccination and early detection and treatment programs. However, for these programs to work as intended, stigma related to HPV and cervical cancer must be understood and addressed. We explored pre-existing stigma associated with HPV and cervical cancer in the public healthcare system and community of a low-resource setting prior to implementation of an HPV screen-and-treat program. METHODS This study conducted thematic analysis of data collected during implementation of a novel HPV screen-and-treat system for cervical cancer early detection and treatment in Iquitos, Peru. We included 35 semi-structured interviews (19 health professionals, 16 women with cervical precancer or cancer), eight focus groups (70 community women), one workshop (14 health professionals), 210 counseling observations (with 20 nurse-midwives), and a document review. We used the Socio-Ecological Model to organize the analysis. RESULTS We identified three main themes: 1. the implication that women are to blame for their HPV infection through characterizations of being easy or promiscuous, 2. the implication that men are to blame for women's HPV infections through being considered careless or unfaithful, 3. HPV is shameful, embarrassing, and something that should be hidden from others. Consequently, in some cases, women refrained from getting screened for HPV. These themes were seen at the individual level among women, relationship level among women, men, and family members, community level among healthcare staff, and societal level within components of cervical cancer guidelines and male chauvinism. CONCLUSIONS Cervical cancer early detection and treatment programs in limited resource settings must address stigma entrenched throughout the entire healthcare system and community in order to sustainably and successfully implement and scale-up new programs. Interventions to tackle this stigma can incorporate messages about HPV infections and latency to lessen the focus on the influence of sexual behavior on HPV acquisition, and instead, promote screening and treatment as paramount preventative measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Morse
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Julia C Gage
- Center for Global Health, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bryn A Prieto
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Magdalena Jurczuk
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Andrea Matos
- Dirección de Prevención y Control de Cancer (DPCAN) of Peruvian Ministry of Health, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | - Patti E Gravitt
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J Kathleen Tracy
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Valerie A Paz-Soldan
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.
- Asociación Benéfica PRISMA, Lima, Peru.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hirth JM, Gonzalez SJ, Zoorob R. The Social Context: Social and Behavioral Factors That Affect Health Outcomes. Prim Care 2023; 50:601-620. [PMID: 37866834 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
To achieve understanding and best care, screening and treating patients should consider the patient's social environment. Social and behavioral factors influence both positive and negative health behaviors that influence mental and physical health. Primary care providers continually navigate barriers faced by patients and seek solutions that take into consideration social and behavioral factors. The role of the PCP begins with an understanding of common barriers and community resources, then by assessing and responding to the patient's own challenges, and finally by advocating in the clinic and public for changes to the underlying social and structural causes of morbidity and mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M Hirth
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77098, USA.
| | - Sandra J Gonzalez
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77098, USA
| | - Roger Zoorob
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77098, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Endalamaw A, Gilks CF, Ambaw F, Assefa Y. Socioeconomic inequality and contributors in accepting attitudes toward people living with HIV among adults in Ethiopia from 2005 to 2016: a population-based cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074694. [PMID: 38040424 PMCID: PMC10693865 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The public's accepting attitude toward people living with HIV is crucial in reducing HIV-related stigma and discrimination, increasing people's access to HIV service. This study examines the inequalities in accepting attitudes toward people living with HIV in Ethiopia from 2005 to 2016. METHODS This cross-sectional study was based on the 2005, 2011 and 2016 Ethiopian Demographic Health Surveys. A total of 17 075, 28 478 and 25 542 adults were included in the 2005, 2011 and 2016 surveys, respectively. Socioeconomic inequality was investigated using the concentration curve and Erreygers' concentration index (ECI), which is scaled from -1 (pro-poor) to +1 (pro-rich). The ECI was decomposed to identify the contributors to socioeconomic inequality using generalised linear regression with the logit link function. RESULTS Accepting attitude toward people living with HIV was 17.9% (95% CI: 16.6%, 19.3%) in 2005, which increased to 33.5% (95% CI: 31.8%, 35.3%) in 2011 and 39.6% (95% CI: 37.6%, 41.9%) in 2016. ECI was 0.342 (p<0.001), 0.436 (p<0.001) and 0.388 (p<0.001), respectively, for 2005, 2011 and 2016. The trend line illustrates socioeconomic inequality seems diverging over time, with an increasing ECI of 0.005 every year (r=0.53; p=0.642; slope=0.005). CONCLUSIONS The current study found that there was pro-rich inequality from 2005 to 2016. People with higher socioeconomic status had a better attitude toward people living with HIV. Comprehensive knowledge about HIV/AIDS, education status, residence, and access to electronic and paper-based media, as well as HIV testing, contribute to a better accepting attitude toward people living with HIV. It is of utmost importance for the country to enhance accepting attitude toward people living with HIV to reduce stigma and discrimination. This requires whole-system response according to the primary healthcare approach toward ending the epidemic of HIV/AIDS in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Endalamaw
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Charles F Gilks
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fentie Ambaw
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Amhara, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Assefa
- School of Public Health, the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Brittain K, Brown K, Phillips T, Zerbe A, Pellowski J, Remien RH, Mellins CA, Abrams EJ, Myer L. Why do Integrated Maternal HIV and Infant Healthcare Services work? A Secondary Analysis of a Randomised Controlled Trial in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3831-3843. [PMID: 37306847 PMCID: PMC10598190 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04097-x] [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] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In a randomised trial, we found that integrated maternal HIV and infant health services through the end of breastfeeding were significantly associated with the primary outcome of engagement in HIV care and viral suppression at 12 months postpartum, compared to the standard of care. Here, we quantitatively explore potential psychosocial modifiers and mediators of this association. Our findings suggest that the intervention was significantly more effective among women experiencing an unintended pregnancy but did not improve outcomes among women reporting risky alcohol use. Although not statistically significant, our results suggest that the intervention may also be more effective among women experiencing higher levels of poverty and HIV-related stigma. We observed no definitive mediator of the intervention effect, but women allocated to integrated services reported better relationships with their healthcare providers through 12 months postpartum. These findings point to high-risk groups that may benefit the most from integrated care, as well as groups for whom these benefits are hampered and that warrant further attention in intervention development and evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brittain
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.
| | - Karryn Brown
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Tamsin Phillips
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Allison Zerbe
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Pellowski
- Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Robert H Remien
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claude A Mellins
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Landon Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Nabunya P, Namuwonge F. HIV-Related Shame, Stigma and the Mental Health Functioning of Adolescents Living with HIV: Findings from a Pilot Study in Uganda. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023; 54:1771-1778. [PMID: 35668284 PMCID: PMC9170548 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between HIV-related shame, stigma and the mental health of adolescents (10-14 years) living with HIV in Uganda. Cross sectional data from a 2-year pilot study for adolescents living with HIV (N = 89) were analyzed. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to determine the relation between HIV-related shame, as measured by the Shame Questionnaire, stigma, and adolescents' mental health functioning, including depressive symptoms, hopelessness, PTSD symptoms, loneliness and self-concept. The average age was 12.2 years, and 56% of participants were female. HIV-related shame was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms (p < 0.05), hopelessness (p < 0.001), PTSD symptoms (p < 0.001), loneliness (p < 0.01), and low levels of self-concept (p < 0.01). HIV stigma was not associated with any of the outcomes. Findings support the need for the development of strategies to help adolescents overcome the shame of living with HIV and mitigate the effects of shame on adolescents' mental health and treatment outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD) Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|