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Thurman TR, Luckett B, Zani B, Nice J, Taylor TM. Can Support Groups Improve Treatment Adherence and Reduce Sexual Risk Behavior among Young People Living with HIV? Results from a Cohort Study in South Africa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:162. [PMID: 39058204 PMCID: PMC11281618 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9070162] [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] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa experience poorer HIV outcomes than adults, including lower ART adherence and virologic suppression. They also have high rates of unprotected sex, increasing the risk of adverse sexual health outcomes and onward transmission. This one-arm, pre-post study investigates a structured 14-session support group aiming to boost treatment adherence and sexual protective behavior for AYLHIV in South Africa. Logistic and Poisson regression analyses were performed on self-reported pre- and post-intervention survey data collected approximately 7.5 months apart from a cohort of 548 AYLHIV. Participants were significantly more likely to report at least 95% adherence at follow-up and rate their health as "good;" they also demonstrated greater treatment knowledge and had fewer absences from school overall and due to illness. Among sexually active AYLHIV, contraception use at last sex increased significantly, while condom use did not. Effects were small, and greater programmatic emphasis on adherence and multifaceted service packages is likely necessary to promote viral suppression. Nonetheless, the intervention addresses an important gap in service provision for AYLHIV in South Africa. Findings denote the potential for incorporating care and treatment components into sexual and reproductive health interventions tailored for AYLHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya R. Thurman
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Brian Luckett
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Tulane International, Cape Town 7806, South Africa
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Department of International Health and Sustainable Development, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Tory M. Taylor
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27516, USA;
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Saura-Lázaro A, Augusto O, Fernández-Luis S, López-Varela E, Fuente-Soro L, Bila D, Tovela M, Macuacua N, Vaz P, Couto A, Bruno C, Naniche D. HIV care retention in three multi-month ART dispensing: a retrospective cohort study in Mozambique. AIDS 2024; 38:1402-1411. [PMID: 38652496 PMCID: PMC11216376 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003913] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate the effect of three multimonth dispensing (3MMD) of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on HIV care retention in southern Mozambique. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS We analyzed routine health data from people with HIV (PWH) aged 10 years old and older who started ART between January 2018 and March 2021. Individuals were followed until December 2021. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to compare attrition (lost to follow-up, death, and transfer out) between 3MMD and monthly ART dispensing. Results were stratified by time on ART before 3MMD enrolment: 'early enrollers' (<6 months on ART) and 'established enrollers' (≥6 months on ART), and age groups: adolescents and youth (AYLHIV) (10-24 years) and adults (≥25 years). RESULTS We included 7378 PWH (25% AYLHIV, 75% adults), with 59% and 62% enrolled in 3MMD, respectively. Median follow-up time was 11.3 [interquartile range (IQR): 5.7-21.6] months for AYLHIV and 10.2 (IQR: 4.8-20.9) for adults. Attrition was lower in PWH enrolled in 3MMD compared with monthly ART dispensing, in both established (aHR AYLHIV = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.54-0.78 and aHR adults = 0.50; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.44-0.56) and early enrollers (aHR AYLHIV = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.58-0.85 and aHR adults = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.57-0.70). Among individuals in 3MMD, male gender (aHR = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.18-1.44) and receiving care in a medium-volume/low-volume healthcare facility (aHR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.03-1.34) increased attrition risk. Conversely, longer ART time before 3MMD enrolment (aHR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.92-0.94 per 1 month increase) and age at least 45 years (aHR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.67-0.89) reduced risk of attrition. CONCLUSION 3MMD improves retention in care compared with monthly dispensing among established and early enrollers, although to a lesser extent among the latter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Saura-Lázaro
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Orvalho Augusto
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM)
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sheila Fernández-Luis
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM)
| | - Elisa López-Varela
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM)
| | - Laura Fuente-Soro
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM)
| | - Dulce Bila
- Fundação Ariel Glaser Contra o SIDA Pediatrico
| | | | | | - Paula Vaz
- Fundação Ariel Glaser Contra o SIDA Pediatrico
| | - Aleny Couto
- Programa Nacional de Controle de HIV/SIDA, Ministério da Saúde
| | - Carmen Bruno
- Direcção Provincial de Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Denise Naniche
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM)
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Nice J, Saltzman L, Thurman TR, Zani B. Latent class analysis of ART barriers among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024; 36:45-53. [PMID: 38422434 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This study examined adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. Using survey data from 857 youth on ART, the study employed latent class analysis to identify subgroups based on self-reported reasons for missed ART doses. Three distinct classes emerged: the largest class (85%) occasionally forgot to take their medication or missed a dose because others were around, the second class (9%) missed doses only due to feeling sick, and the third class (6%) faced multiple barriers such as forgetting, feeling sick, worrying about side effects, or doubting the effectiveness of ART. Youth who reported multiple barriers to adherence had significantly lower adjusted odds (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.16-0.78) of reporting 90% past month adherence compared to those who occasionally forgot their medication. Additionally, contextual factors such as food security, being treated well at the clinic, and being accompanied to the clinic were associated with higher odds of adherence. The findings highlight the importance of considering co-occurring barriers to adherence and tailoring interventions accordingly. Addressing contextual factors, such as ensuring food security and providing supportive clinic environments, is also crucial for promoting optimal adherence among adolescents and young adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leia Saltzman
- Tulane University School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
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Bondarchuk C, Lemon T, Medina-Marino A, Rousseau E, Sindelo S, Sibanda N, Butler L, Bekker LG, Earnshaw V, Katz I. The COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity, and psychosocial well-being in young South Africans newly diagnosed with HIV: a mediation analysis. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4560188. [PMID: 38978584 PMCID: PMC11230501 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4560188/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor psychological well-being, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, is both prevalent among young South Africans living with HIV and associated with poor HIV clinical outcomes. By impacting food insecurity and employment, the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced psychological well-being in this population. This analysis sought to examine whether food insecurity and unemployment mediated the relationship between study cohort (pre- versus during-pandemic) and psychological well-being in our sample of young South Africans living with HIV. METHODS This was a secondary analysis comparing baseline data from two cohorts of young South Africans ages 18-24 from the Cape Town and East London metro areas who tested positive for HIV at clinics (or mobile clinics) either before or during the COVID-19 pandemic. Baseline sociodemographic, economic, and psychological outcomes were analyzed through a series of bivariate logistic regression and mediation analyses. All data were analyzed in 2023 and 2024. RESULTS Reported food anxiety, insufficient food quality, and insufficient food quantity were lower in the cohort recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic than those recruited before the pandemic (p<0.001). Higher levels of food insecurity predicted higher depressive and anxiety symptoms and lower self-esteem. Food anxiety, insufficient food quality, and insufficient food quality, but not unemployment, mediated the relationship between study cohort and depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and self-esteem. CONCLUSION Food insecurity may have decreased amongst our sample of young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings build on our understanding of how the psychological well-being of young people living with HIV was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and may lend support to interventions targeting food insecurity to improve psychological well-being in this population.
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Njau T, Mwakawanga DL, Sunguya B, Minja A, Kaaya S, Fekadu A. Perceived barriers and opportunities for implementing an integrated psychological intervention for depression in adolescents living with HIV in Tanzania. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:672. [PMID: 38807134 PMCID: PMC11134697 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11118-5] [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: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) have an increased risk of depression, negatively affecting their adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and treatment outcomes. Integrating mental health care in HIV care and treatment settings improves comprehensive care. However, integration remains challenging in Tanzania, like in other high-burden and low-resource settings. The overall objective of this work is to inform the development of a psychological intervention for depression in adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV). We describe perceived barriers and opportunities for implementing an integrated, evidence-based psychological intervention to manage adolescent depression in HIV care and treatment centers (HIV-CTC) from the perspectives of adolescents, caregivers, and healthcare providers (HCPs) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. METHODS To inform intervention development and implementation, this study utilized a qualitative design through a phenomenological approach informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to explore implementation barriers and facilitators in ALWHIV, HCPs, and caregivers. Forty-five in-depth interviews were conducted in three HIV-CTCs in Kinondoni Dar es Salaam. Audio records were transcribed verbatim and analyzed deductively through NVIVO software. RESULTS Barriers to implementing an integrated psychological intervention to address depression in ALWHIV included (A) poor mental health awareness among caregivers, adolescents, HCPs, and policy-makers, (B) high level of stigma against mental health care, (C) poor communication between adolescents and HCPs concerning mental health care, (D) lack of contextualized intervention of proven effectiveness and guidelines of mental health care, and (E) inadequate mental health care supportive supervision and mentorship. Facilitators for implementation included supportive infrastructure, positive pressure from HIV implementing partners, tension for change, and participant's perception of the advantage of a psychological intervention as compared to just usual HIV care and treatment counseling. CONCLUSION Despite several modifiable barriers to implementing a psychological intervention in HIV CTC, there were encouraging facilitators and opportunities for implementing an integrated, evidence-based psychological intervention to address depression in ALWHIV in Kinondoni Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasiana Njau
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam Tanzania, United Nations Road, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania.
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Dorkasi L Mwakawanga
- Department of Community Health Nursing, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Bruno Sunguya
- Department of Community Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Agape Minja
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam Tanzania, United Nations Road, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania
| | - Sylvia Kaaya
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam Tanzania, United Nations Road, Dar es Salaam, P.O Box 65001, Tanzania
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Global Health & Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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Kyambikwa Bisangamo C, El-Nimr NA, Milabyo Kyamusugulwa P, Wahdan IMH, Gad ZM. Traditional healers' knowledge and infection control practices related to HIV in Bukavu City, Democratic Republic of the Congo. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1403. [PMID: 38802789 PMCID: PMC11129489 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18941-9] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with HIV consult traditional healers (THs). These THs can both delay care for people living with HIV (PLHIV) and transmit HIV through poor infection control practices. The main objective of this study was to evaluate knowledge and practices of THs regarding HIV in Bukavu. METHODS A cross-sectional study using quantitative approach was carried out among 71 THs in Bukavu City. The collected data included the following topics: personal and socio-demographic characteristics, HIV knowledge, and infection control practices. Descriptive statistics, independent-samples T-test or F-test, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data with a p-value < 0.05. RESULTS The THs' mean age was 49.2 ± 11.2 years, and the majority were aged 40 to < 60 years. Males constituted 88.7% of THs with a male-to-female ratio of 7.9. In general, 47.9% of study participants had poor knowledge about HIV/AIDS infection, 45.1% of them had fair knowledge, and only 7.0% had good knowledge. Overall, 43.7% of THs had poor infection control practices, 52.1% of THs had fair practices, and only 4.2% of participants had good practices. Results of multiple linear regression analysis revealed that none of the personal and demographic variables studied were significant predictors of their knowledge about HIV/AIDS (p > 0.05). In terms of practices, two variables were significant predictors of infection control practices: living in Ibanda and receiving training in taking care of HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS The study revealed that THs' knowledge about HIV infection was insufficient and that they had poor infection control practices. Formal standardized training on HIV infection should be organized for all THs so that they can always refer their patients to modern, reliable antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics and reduce the risk of occupational exposure in their practices. Although PPE's assistance for THs is required in terms of protective measures, the province health authority must also oversee infection control procedures at THs' offices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Célestin Kyambikwa Bisangamo
- Department of Public Health, Bukavu High Institute of Medical Techniques (ISTM-Bukavu), Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
| | - Nessrin Ahmed El-Nimr
- Department of Epidemiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Patrick Milabyo Kyamusugulwa
- Department of Public Health, Bukavu High Institute of Medical Techniques (ISTM-Bukavu), Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Iman Mohamed Helmy Wahdan
- Department of Epidemiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Zahira Metwally Gad
- Department of Epidemiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Galea JT, Vasquez DH, Rupani N, Gordon MB, Tapia M, Greene KY, Kolevic L, Franke MF, Contreras C. Development and Pilot-Testing of an Optimized Conversational Agent or "Chatbot" for Peruvian Adolescents Living With HIV to Facilitate Mental Health Screening, Education, Self-Help, and Linkage to Care: Protocol for a Mixed Methods, Community-Engaged Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e55559. [PMID: 38713501 PMCID: PMC11109861 DOI: 10.2196/55559] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV are disproportionally affected by depression, which worsens antiretroviral therapy adherence, increases viral load, and doubles the risk of mortality. Because most adolescents living with HIV live in low- and middle-income countries, few receive depression treatment due to a lack of mental health services and specialists in low-resource settings. Chatbot technology, used increasingly in health service delivery, is a promising approach for delivering low-intensity depression care to adolescents living with HIV in resource-constrained settings. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study is to develop and pilot-test for the feasibility and acceptability of a prototype, optimized conversational agent (chatbot) to provide mental health education, self-help skills, and care linkage for adolescents living with HIV. METHODS Chatbot development comprises 3 phases conducted over 2 years. In the first phase (year 1), formative research will be conducted to understand the views, opinions, and preferences of up to 48 youths aged 10-19 years (6 focus groups of up to 8 adolescents living with HIV per group), their caregivers (5 in-depth interviews), and HIV program personnel (5 in-depth interviews) regarding depression among adolescents living with HIV. We will also investigate the perceived acceptability of a mental health chatbot, including barriers and facilitators to accessing and using a chatbot for depression care by adolescents living with HIV. In the second phase (year 1), we will iteratively program a chatbot using the SmartBot360 software with successive versions (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3), meeting regularly with a Youth Advisory Board comprised of adolescents living with HIV who will guide and inform the chatbot development and content to arrive at a prototype version (version 1.0) for pilot-testing. In the third phase (year 2), we will pilot-test the prototype chatbot among 50 adolescents living with HIV naïve to its development. Participants will interact with the chatbot for up to 2 weeks, and data will be collected on the acceptability of the chatbot-delivered depression education and self-help strategies, depression knowledge changes, and intention to seek care linkage. RESULTS The study was awarded in April 2022, received institutional review board approval in November 2022, received funding in December 2022, and commenced recruitment in March 2023. By the completion of study phases 1 and 2, we expect our chatbot to incorporate key needs and preferences gathered from focus groups and interviews to develop the chatbot. By the completion of study phase 3, we will have assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the prototype chatbot. Study phase 3 began in April 2024. Final results are expected by January 2025 and published thereafter. CONCLUSIONS The study will produce a prototype mental health chatbot developed with and for adolescents living with HIV that will be ready for efficacy testing in a subsequent, larger study. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/55559.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome T Galea
- School of Social Work, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
- Department of Global and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Neil Rupani
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Moya B Gordon
- School of Social Work, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | | | - Karah Y Greene
- School of Social Work, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Lenka Kolevic
- Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru
- Departamento Académico de Pediatría, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Molly F Franke
- Department of Global and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Carmen Contreras
- School of Social Work, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
- Socios En Salud Sucursal, Lima, Peru
- Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
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Arroyo-Jiménez C, Benjet C, Robles R, Caballero-Suárez NP, Gálvez-Hernández CL, Ordoñez-Ortega J, Suárez-Maldonado MT, Xochihua L. Social and mental health characteristics of adolescents living with HIV in Mexico: Implications for adherence to antiretroviral treatment. J Health Psychol 2024; 29:289-302. [PMID: 37933118 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231207474] [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: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Mexico is the third Latin American country with the most children and adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (ALHIV). There is a lack of information on the characteristics of this population. We aimed to describe the social and mental health characteristics of Mexican ALHIV. A census was conducted of all adolescent patients with HIV at a pediatric hospital (n = 47; mean age 14.39, S.D. = 3.65) and their caregivers. We collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, family, intelligence, mental health, adverse life events, substance use, treatment, knowledge of Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) and HIV, and biomarkers. Most cases were transmitted vertically and self-reported ART adherence was above 90%. Some obstacles to adherence were medicine discomfort, believing that they did not need it, and forgetfulness. The vulnerabilities were intellectual disability, adverse life events, possible mental health problems, and little knowledge of their illness and treatment. These findings suggest the importance of interventions to improve the perception and knowledge of HIV and ART to increase ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Corina Benjet
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico
| | - Rebeca Robles
- Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico
| | - Nancy Patricia Caballero-Suárez
- Centro de Investigación en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIENI) del Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias (INER), Mexico
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Siril H, Gitagno D, Kaaya S, Caputo M, Hirschhorn L, Nyamuhanga T, Mtei R, Festo C, Hawkins C. Generalized and COVID related anxiety as risk factors for health outcomes among adolescents with HIV during COVID-19 in Tanzania. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3921926. [PMID: 38410463 PMCID: PMC10896391 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3921926/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and associated prevention strategies caused widespread interruptions to care and treatment for people living with HIV. Adolescents living with HIV (AWHIV) were particularly vulnerable to poor mental and physical health during COVID-19. We assessed the burden of generalized and COVID-19-related anxiety and associations with adherence to HIV care and treatment and viral load suppression (VLS) among AWHIV during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Tanzania. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among AWHIV aged 15-19 years attending 10 clinics in Dar es Salaam from April 2022-February 2023. Study participants completed a self-administered questionnaire including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), COVID-19-related anxiety, and other psychosocial and physical health and support measures. HIV visit adherence, viral load and sociodemographic data were abstracted from patient health records.Analysis:: Multivariable (MV) quasibinomial and logistic regression models examined associations of Generalized and COVID-19-related anxiety with visit adherence and HIV virologic suppression (HIV VL < 50 copies/mL). Data were analyzed using R software. Results 658 AWHIV (52% male) were included in this analysis. Most (86%) had been on antiretroviral treatment (ART) for at least four years, 55% attended at least 75% of their scheduled clinic visits, and 78% were HIV virologically suppressed. The median GAD and COVID-19-related anxiety scores were 2 (IQR: 0-5, and 26 (IQR: 13-43; respectively. Only 2% scored moderate-severe generalized anxiety (score 10-21). We found no significant associations between COVID-19-related anxiety or GAD and visit adherence. Higher GAD was inversely associated with VLS (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.89 (95% CI 0.81, 0.98)). Female gender and higher quality of physical life were significantly associated with VLS. Conclusion Low levels of generalized and COVID-19 related anxiety were reported among Tanzanian AWHIV. Integrating screening and management of generalized anxiety screening into HIV care for AWHIV could improve VLS among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hellen Siril
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences
| | | | - Sylvia Kaaya
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences
| | | | | | | | - Rachel Mtei
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences
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Tarkang EE, Manu E, Aku FY, Anaman-Torgbor J, Khuzwayo N. Sociodemographic and health systems determinants of antiretroviral therapy adherence among human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients in the Volta Region of Ghana: A multi-centre study. SAGE Open Med 2024; 12:20503121241229056. [PMID: 38357401 PMCID: PMC10865934 DOI: 10.1177/20503121241229056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy is required for viral load suppression. This study investigated the sociodemographic (age, sex, marital status, level of education, monthly income, settlement type, distance to the antiretroviral therapy-providing site, ethnicity) and health system (antiretroviral therapy-providing site) determinants of antiretroviral therapy adherence among human immunodeficiency virus-positive patients in the Volta Region, Ghana. Methods A cross-section design was adopted, collecting data from 1729 human immunodeficiency virus patients and analysing them using STATA version 17 at level 0.05. Results Antiretroviral therapy adherence was poor (51.2%). Being divorced (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.65), widow (AOR = 0.58), cohabiting (AOR = 0.22), Ewe (AOR = 3.7), Ga/Dangbe (AOR = 2.27), living in a rural area (AOR = 1.54) and an urban area (AOR = 0.64), having a monthly income of GH₵1000 or less (AOR = 3.21), covering a distance of 51 km and above to the antiretroviral therapy centre (AOR = 1.79), receiving antiretroviral therapy from Ketu South Municipal Hospital (AOR = 0.09), Hohoe Municipal Hospital (AOR = 0.03), Ho Municipal Hospital (AOR = 0.02) and Ho Teaching Hospital (AOR = 0.09) were the determinants of antiretroviral therapy adherence. Conclusion Antiretroviral therapy adherence was low. Interventions to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence should target these significant determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvis Enowbeyang Tarkang
- Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
- HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Network Cameroon, Kumba, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Manu
- Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Fortress Yayra Aku
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Judith Anaman-Torgbor
- Department of Public Health Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Nelisiwe Khuzwayo
- Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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11
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Lancaster KE, Stockton M, Remch M, Wester CW, Nash D, Brazier E, Adedimeji A, Finlayson R, Freeman A, Hogan B, Kasozi C, Kwobah EK, Kulzer JL, Merati T, Tine J, Poda A, Succi R, Twizere C, Tlali M, Groote PV, Edelman EJ, Parcesepe AM. Availability of substance use screening and treatment within HIV clinical sites across seven geographic regions within the IeDEA consortium. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 124:104309. [PMID: 38228025 PMCID: PMC10939808 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104309] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overwhelming evidence highlights the negative impact of substance use on HIV care and treatment outcomes. Yet, the extent to which alcohol use disorder (AUD) and other substance use disorders (SUD) services have been integrated within HIV clinical settings is limited. We describe AUD/SUD screening and treatment availability in HIV clinical sites participating in the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium. METHODS In 2020, 223 IeDEA HIV clinical sites from 41 countries across seven geographic regions completed a survey on capacity and practices related to management of AUD/ SUD. Sites provided information on AUD and other SUD screening and treatment practices. RESULTS Sites were from low-income countries (23%), lower-middle-income countries (38%), upper-middle income countries (17%) and high-income counties (23%). AUD and SUD screening using validated instruments were reported at 32% (n=71 located in 12 countries) and 12% (n=27 located in 6 countries) of the 223 sites from 41 countries, respectively. The North American region had the highest proportion of clinics that reported AUD screening (76%), followed by East Africa (46%); none of the sites in West or Central Africa reported AUD screening. 31% (n=69) reported both AUD screening and counseling, brief intervention, psychotherapy, or Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment; 8% (n=18) reported AUD screening and detox hospitalization; and 10% (n=24) reported both AUD screening and medication. While the proportion of clinics providing treatment for SUD was lower than those treating AUD, the prevalence estimates of treatment availability were similar. CONCLUSIONS Availability of screening and treatment for AUD/SUD in HIV care settings is limited, leaving a substantial gap for integration into ongoing HIV care. A critical understanding is needed of the multilevel implementation factors or feasible implementation strategies for integrating screening and treatment of AUD/SUD into HIV care settings, particularly for resource-constrained regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melissa Stockton
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Molly Remch
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Denis Nash
- City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | - Ellen Brazier
- City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Aimee Freeman
- Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Breanna Hogan
- Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Judiacel Tine
- Centre Hospitalier National Universitaire de Fann, Dakar, Senagal
| | - Armel Poda
- Université Polytechnique de Bobo-Dioulasso, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Regina Succi
- Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Christelle Twizere
- Centre National de Référence en Matière de VIH/SIDA au Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Mpho Tlali
- University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Per von Groote
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Switzerland
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12
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Tarantino N, Norman B, Enimil A, Asibey SO, Martyn-Dickens C, Guthrie KM, Kwara A, Bock B, Mimiaga MJ, Brown L. HIV symptom severity and associated factors among young people with HIV in Ghana. AIDS Care 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38184890 PMCID: PMC11227599 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2299332] [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] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTAdolescents and young adults (young people) with HIV (YPWH) often struggle with treatment self-management. Many have symptoms due to HIV disease, medication side-effects, or comorbid conditions. Our study investigated the severity of HIV-related symptoms among YPWH aged 18-24 with detectable viral loads from an HIV clinic in Ghana (N = 60) and potential correlates of severity across a range of factors. Results indicated that YPWH currently experienced, on average, 13 symptoms (SD = 12.33). Six of the 10 most common symptoms were from two domains: fatigue and psychological. The most common symptoms were headaches (62%), weakness (53%), and fear/worries (52%). No differences were observed in number or severity of symptoms between youth based on HIV transmission status. Bivariate correlates of symptom severity were found with six that remained significant or approached significance in a multivariate model predicting severity: living with a parent/guardian, higher perceived access to HIV care, and higher treatment readiness were associated with lower severity while greater travel time to the HIV clinic, psychological distress, and more missed clinic appointments were associated with higher severity. Our findings suggest that interventions to address symptoms among YPWH should be multilevel and include strategies (e.g., telehealth, home care) to increase access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Tarantino
- Providence College, Department of Psychology, Providence, RI, USA
- Rhode Island Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Betty Norman
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Department of Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Anthony Enimil
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Department of Child Health, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Kate M. Guthrie
- Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Providence, RI, USA
- Miriam Hospital, Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Awewura Kwara
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Beth Bock
- Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Providence, RI, USA
- Miriam Hospital, Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Matthew J. Mimiaga
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Center for LGBTQ+ Advocacy, Research & Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Larry Brown
- Rhode Island Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Providence, RI, USA
- Miriam Hospital, Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
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13
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Masa R, Zimba M, Zimba G, Zulu G, Zulu J, Operario D. The Association of Emotional Support, HIV Stigma, and Home Environment With Disclosure Efficacy and Perceived Disclosure Outcomes in Young People Living With HIV in Zambia: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2024; 35:17-26. [PMID: 37994517 PMCID: PMC10842355 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000442] [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: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study examined the association of various forms of social support, attitudes toward living at home, and HIV stigma experiences with HIV self-disclosure efficacy and perceived negative disclosure outcomes. We analyzed cross-sectional data from 120 young people with HIV (YPWH) aged 18-21 years receiving outpatient care in Eastern Province, Zambia. Perceived negative disclosure outcomes and disclosure self-efficacy were measured using an adapted version of the Adolescent HIV Disclosure Cognitions and Affect Scale. Explanatory variables included parental or caregiver support, emotional support, instrumental support, HIV stigma experiences, and attitudes toward living at home. Findings suggest that YPWH's confidence in their ability to self-disclose their HIV status and their assessment of negative outcomes associated with HIV disclosure are influenced by emotional support, experiences of HIV stigma, and the quality of the home environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainier Masa
- Rainier Masa, PhD, is an Associate Professor, School of Social Work University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA. Mathias Zimba, MA, is a Director, Rising Fountains Development Program, Chipata, Zambia. Gilbert Zimba, DipTh, is Project Coordinator, Rising Fountains Development Program, Lundazi, Zambia. Graham Zulu, MSW, is a Research Associate, Global Social Development Innovations, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA. Joseph Zulu, PhD, is an Associate Professor, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia. Don Operario, PhD, is a Professor, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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14
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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.
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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
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15
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Mabasa RA, Madiba S, Mothiba TM. Structural, Familial, and Psychosocial Factors Affecting Long-Term Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence amongst Adolescents Living with Perinatally Acquired HIV in Limpopo, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:7074. [PMID: 37998305 PMCID: PMC10671703 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20227074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
After more than two decades of the expansion of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in adolescents living with perinatal HIV (APHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa, there is still poorly sustained long-term adherence to ART due to multifactorial factors with the consequence of increased mortality and morbidity. There are little data available on the familial and structural factors which affect sustenance to long-term adherence to ART. A qualitative exploratory design was used to conduct in-depth interviews with 21 APHIV attending HIV care and management in the rural health facilities of Vhembe district in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Transcripts were translated verbatim into English, and data were analyzed using Tesch's eight steps of qualitative data analysis. The sample consisted of APHIV 10-19 years old who were aware of their HIV status, and all had received ART for more than 5 years. They lived in extended, disrupted, grandparent- and child-headed households. They experienced food insecurities due to poverty or orphanhood, as well as living in disrupted households, which deterred them from long-term adherence. In addition, dependency on social support grants to sustain their livelihoods affected long-term adherence. APHIV had challenges with structural factors such as inconsistent clinic attendance, clashes between school activities and clinic appointments, and the lack of transport fare to the clinic, which affected adherence. Although APHIV were on one-pill fixed-dose ART, they were not able to sustain long-term adherence due to various familial, structural, and psychosocial challenges. In addition to institution-based interventions, there is a need for family, community-based, and multi-sectorial interventions to support long-term ART adherence among APHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rirhandzu Austice Mabasa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Executive Deans Office, University of Limpopo, Polokwane 0700, South Africa; (S.M.); (T.M.M.)
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16
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Nelson AN, Shen X, Vekatayogi S, Zhang S, Ozorowski G, Dennis M, Sewall LM, Milligan E, Davis D, Cross KA, Chen Y, van Schooten J, Eudailey J, Isaac J, Memon S, Weinbaum C, Stanfield-Oakley S, Byrd A, Chutkan S, Berendam S, Cronin K, Yasmeen A, Alam SM, LaBranche CC, Rogers K, Shirreff L, Cupo A, Derking R, Villinger F, Klasse PJ, Ferrari G, Williams WB, Hudgens MG, Ward AB, Montefiori DC, Van Rompay KK, Wiehe K, Moore JP, Sanders RW, De Paris K, Permar SR. Germline-targeting SOSIP trimer immunization elicits precursor CD4 binding-site targeting broadly neutralizing antibodies in infant macaques. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.07.565306. [PMID: 37986885 PMCID: PMC10659289 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.07.565306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
A vaccine that can achieve protective immunity prior to sexual debut is critical to prevent the estimated 410,000 new HIV infections that occur yearly in adolescents. As children living with HIV can make broadly neutralizing antibody (bnAb) responses in plasma at a faster rate than adults, early childhood is an opportune window for implementation of a multi-dose HIV immunization strategy to elicit protective immunity prior to adolescence. Therefore, the goal of our study was to assess the ability of a B cell lineage-designed HIV envelope SOSIP to induce bnAbs in early life. Infant rhesus macaques (RMs) received either BG505 SOSIP or the germline-targeting BG505 GT1.1 SOSIP (n=5/group) with the 3M-052-SE adjuvant at 0, 6, and 12 weeks of age. All infant RMs were then boosted with the BG505 SOSIP at weeks 26, 52 and 78, mimicking a pediatric immunization schedule of multiple vaccine boosts within the first two years of life. Both immunization strategies induced durable, high magnitude binding antibodies and plasma autologous virus neutralization that primarily targeted the CD4-binding site (CD4bs) or C3/465 epitope. Notably, three BG505 GT1.1-immunized infants exhibited a plasma HIV neutralization signature reflective of VRC01-like CD4bs bnAb precursor development and heterologous virus neutralization. Finally, infant RMs developed precursor bnAb responses at a similar frequency to that of adult RMs receiving a similar immunization strategy. Thus, a multi-dose immunization regimen with bnAb lineage designed SOSIPs is a promising strategy for inducing protective HIV bnAb responses in childhood prior to adolescence when sexual HIV exposure risk begins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N. Nelson
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaoying Shen
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sravani Vekatayogi
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Shiyu Zhang
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Gabriel Ozorowski
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Maria Dennis
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Leigh M. Sewall
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Emma Milligan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dominique Davis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kaitlyn A. Cross
- Gillings School of Public Health and Center for AIDS Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Yue Chen
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jelle van Schooten
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joshua Eudailey
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - John Isaac
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Saad Memon
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Carolyn Weinbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Alliyah Byrd
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Suni Chutkan
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stella Berendam
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kenneth Cronin
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Anila Yasmeen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - S. Munir Alam
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Celia C. LaBranche
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kenneth Rogers
- New Iberia Research Center, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, New Iberia, LA, USA
| | - Lisa Shirreff
- New Iberia Research Center, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, New Iberia, LA, USA
| | - Albert Cupo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronald Derking
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Francois Villinger
- New Iberia Research Center, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, New Iberia, LA, USA
| | - Per Johan Klasse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Guido Ferrari
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Wilton B. Williams
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - Michael G. Hudgens
- Gillings School of Public Health and Center for AIDS Research, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew B. Ward
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Koen K.A. Van Rompay
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California; Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Wiehe
- Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center; Durham, NC, USA
| | - John P. Moore
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
| | - Rogier W. Sanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center; Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kristina De Paris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sallie R. Permar
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine; New York, NY, USA
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17
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Kizito S, Nampijja D. Maximizing the Value of Routine Hospital Data for Better Understanding of HIV Medication Adherence in Low-Resourced Settings. Arch Med Res 2023; 54:102881. [PMID: 37639963 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.102881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, USA.
| | - Dorothy Nampijja
- Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, USA
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18
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Boadu I, Manu A, Aryeetey RNO, Kesse KA, Abdulai M, Acheampong E, Akparibo R. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV patients in Ghana: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002448. [PMID: 37910452 PMCID: PMC10619784 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Maintaining a high level of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is critical to limiting rapid viral replication, drug resistance, and viral transmission. However, ART adherence remains a major challenge in HIV/AIDS treatment success. This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to synthesize available evidence on adherence to ART among HIV/AIDS patients in Ghana.This review followed the preferred reporting item for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) criteria. A comprehensive literature search was done using five online databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, Africa Index Medicus, and Willey Online Library) from 25th- 30th April 2023 to identify potential studies. In addition, references of related articles were manually searched to further identify relevant studies. Search records were managed in Endnote library where duplicates were removed prior to screening. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were conducted in Ghana, designed as an observational or experimental study, and explicitly measured adherence to ART, either as a primary or secondary outcome. Studies were excluded if the proportion or prevalence of adherence to ART was not reported.A total number of 126 potential studies were identified from the literature search. Of these, 14 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the Meta-analysis. The studies involved a total number of 4,436 participants. The pooled estimate of adherence to ART was 70% (CI: 58-81%). In subgroup analysis, adolescents and young adults had a lower adherence rate (66%, CI: 46-84%) compared with adults (70%; CI: 58-81%). Publication bias was not observed among studies. The pooled estimate of optimal adherence to ART among HIV patients in Ghana was lower than is recommended (≥95%) to achieve viral suppression. Adherence was lower among young persons living with HIV/AIDS. To achieve the United Nation's Sustainable development goals and the UNAIDS "95-95-95" targets, there is a need to focus on improving adherence interventions among persons living with HIV/AIDS, especially among the younger cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Boadu
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Legon, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adom Manu
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Legon, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Nii Okai Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Legon, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kwame Adjei Kesse
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Legon, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Marijanatu Abdulai
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, School of Public Health, Legon, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Ghana National AIDS/STI Control Programme (NACP), Accra, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Acheampong
- Institute of Precision Health, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Akparibo
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Pierce LJ, Were MC, Amaral S, Aliyu MH, Ezechi O, David A, Idigbe I, Musa AZ, Okonkwo P, Dowshen N, Ahonkhai AA. PEERNaija-a mobile health platform incentivizing medication adherence among youth living with HIV in Nigeria: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:179. [PMID: 37891681 PMCID: PMC10605971 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01404-0] [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] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor medication adherence is a major barrier to HIV control among youth living with HIV (Y-PLWH). The PEERNaija application (app) is an adapted smartphone app grounded in social cognitive and contigency management theories and designed to harness peer-based social incentives and conditional financial incentives to promote medication adherence. The app delivers a multifaceted medication adherence intervention including (1) peer-based social incentives, (2) financial incentives, (3) virtual peer social support, and (4) early clinic-based outreach for non-adherent Y-PLWH. A pilot trial of the app will be conducted in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country with the 4th largest HIV epidemic, and home to 10% of the world's four million Y-PLWH. METHODS In this randomized controlled trial, we will compare implementation outcomes (feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness measured via validated scales, enrollment and application installation rates, feedback surveys and focus group discussions with participants, and back-end application data), and preliminary efficacy (in improving medication adherence and viral suppression) of the PEERNaija app at 6 months. Participants in Arm 1 (PEERNaija) will receive daily medication reminders, peer-based social incentives, and virtual peer social support. Participants in Arm 2 (PEERNaija +) will additionally receive a conditional financial incentive based on their adherence performance. Eligibility for Y-PLWH includes (1) being aged 14-29 years, (2) being on ART, (3) owning a smartphone, (4) being willing to download an app, and (5) being able to read simple text in English. DISCUSSION This study will serve as the basis for a larger intervention trial evaluating the PEERNaija app (and the integration of mHealth, incentive, and peer-support-based strategies) to improve HIV outcomes in a critically important region of the world for Y-PLWH. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT04930198. First submitted date: May 25, 2021. Study start: August 1, 2021, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ . PROTOCOL VERSION January 21, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie J Pierce
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Martin C Were
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Oliver Ezechi
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Agatha David
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ifeoma Idigbe
- Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Nadia Dowshen
- Craig-Dalsimer Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aima A Ahonkhai
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard University Center for AIDS Research, Boston, MA, USA.
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Togna Pabo WLR, Fokam J, Njume D, Takou D, Santoro MM, Nyasa RB, Chenwi C, Mpouel ML, Beloumou G, Jagni ESN, Nka AD, Ka’e AC, Teto G, Dambaya B, Djupsa S, Gouissi Anguechia DH, Evariste M, Kamta C, Bala L, Lambo V, Halle-Ekane EG, Colizzi V, Perno CF, Ndjolo A, Ndip Ndip R. HIV-1 subtype diversity and immuno-virological outcomes among adolescents failing antiretroviral therapy in Cameroon: A cohort study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293326. [PMID: 37878637 PMCID: PMC10599502 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293326] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the variability of HIV-1 and its effect on immuno-virological response among adolescents living with perinatally acquired HIV (APHI). METHODS A cohort study was conducted from 2018-2020 among 311 APHI receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Cameroon. Sequencing of protease and reverse transcriptase regions was performed for participants experiencing virological failure, VF, (Plasma viral load, PVL ≥ 1000 RNA copies/ml). HIV-1 subtypes were inferred by phylogeny; immuno-virological responses were monitored at 3-time points (T1-T3). Cox regression modeling was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) of progression to: CD4 < 250, and PVL > 5log10, adjusted for acquired drug resistance, gender, ART line, adherence, and duration on treatment; p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Of the 141 participants in VF enrolled, the male-female ratio was 1:1; mean age was 15 (±3) years; and median [IQR] duration on ART was 51 [46-60] months. In all phases, 17 viral clades were found with a predominant CRF02_AG (58.2%, 59.4%, and 58.3%). From T1-T3 respectively, there was an increasing CD4 count (213 [154-313], 366 [309-469], and 438 [364-569] cells/mm3) and decline log10 PVL (5.23, 4.43, and 4.43), similar across subtypes. Among participants with CRF02_AG infection, duration of treatment was significantly associated with both rates of progression to CD4 < 250, and PVL > 5log10, aHR = 0.02 (0.001-0.52), and aHR = 0.05 (0.01-0.47) respectively. Moreover, four potential new HIV-1 recombinants were identified (CRF02_AG/02D, CRF02_AG/02A1F2, D/CRF02_AG, and AF2/CRF02_AG), indicating a wide viral diversity. CONCLUSION Among APHI in settings like Cameroon, there is a wide genetic diversity of HIV-1, driven by CRF02_AG and with potential novel clades due to ongoing recombination events. Duration of treatment significantly reduces the risk of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willy Le roi Togna Pabo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Joseph Fokam
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
- National HIV Drug Resistance Group, Ministry of Public Health, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Debimeh Njume
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Désiré Takou
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Collins Chenwi
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Marie Laure Mpouel
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Grace Beloumou
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Ezechiel Semengue Ngoufack Jagni
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Evangelic University of Cameroon, Bandjoun, Cameroon
| | - Alex Durand Nka
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Evangelic University of Cameroon, Bandjoun, Cameroon
| | - Aude Christelle Ka’e
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Georges Teto
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Beatrice Dambaya
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Sandrine Djupsa
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Davy Hyacinthe Gouissi Anguechia
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Molimbou Evariste
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Lionel Bala
- Mbalmayo District Hospital, Mbalmayo, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Vittorio Colizzi
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Evangelic University of Cameroon, Bandjoun, Cameroon
| | - Carlo Federico Perno
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alexis Ndjolo
- Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for Research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Bernays S, Lariat J, Cowan F, Senzanje B, Willis N, Nenguke ZM. "They test my blood to know how much blood is in my body": the untapped potential of promoting viral load literacy to support adherence and viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26153. [PMID: 37880186 PMCID: PMC10600064 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26153] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Achieving sustained HIV viral suppression is a key strategy to optimize the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV. Sub-optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) in Southern Africa, due to a range of social and contextual factors, including poor mental health, has presented a substantial challenge to meeting targets aimed towards improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission. With the increasing availability of viral load (VL) testing in Southern Africa, there is an opportunity to better understand the relationship between VL literacy, wellbeing and adherence among adolescents. METHODS We conducted qualitative interviews with 45 AYPLHIV aged 10-24 years in three districts (urban, peri-urban and rural) in Zimbabwe between March and August 2021. The sample was purposively selected to represent a range of experiences related to HIV status disclosure, gender, marital status and treatment experience. Separate workshops were conducted with 18 healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 caregivers to better understand existing support mechanisms to AYPLHIV accessing ART. We used thematic analysis to examine adolescent VL literacy, treatment support networks, experiences of clinic interactions, VL testing procedures and barriers to adherence. RESULTS VL literacy was consistently under-developed among participants. Comprehension of phrases commonly heard during clinic visits, such as TND (target not detected) and "high" and "low" VL, were better understood by older participants. VL testing was predominantly understood as a clinical procedure that enables HCWs to monitor treatment adherence. Absent throughout the interviews were descriptions of how viral suppression improves health and quality of life, likely fosters wellbeing and enhances self-esteem, enables participation in education and social activities, and eliminates the risk of onward transmission. CONCLUSIONS It is imperative that we reconsider how routine VL monitoring is communicated to and understood by AYPLHIV. Reframing ART, including VL test results, in terms of the psychosocial benefits that viral suppression can generate is likely to be crucial to motivating AYPLHIV to maintain optimal treatment engagement and develop self-management approaches as they move into adulthood. Access to accurate information tailored to individual concerns and circumstances can support AYPLHIV to achieve wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bernays
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Global Health and Development London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joni Lariat
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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22
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Njuguna I, John-Stewart G. Multilevel interventions for young people with HIV. Lancet HIV 2023; 10:e489-e490. [PMID: 37541704 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(23)00138-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Njuguna
- Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi 20723-00202, Kenya; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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23
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Odongo I, Arim B, Ayer P, Murungi T, Akullo S, Aceng D, Oboke H, Kumakech E, Obua C, Auma AG, Nyeko R. Utilization of antiretroviral therapy services and associated factors among adolescents living with HIV in northern Uganda: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288410. [PMID: 37440577 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal utilization of antiretroviral therapy (ART) services remains a problem among adolescents in low- and middle-income countries, which has a negative impact on their response to treatment and increases the risk of developing resistance. Optimal use is essential to enhancing treatment efficacy. We investigated the optimal use of ART service and predictors among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in northern Uganda. METHODS We used a cross-sectional study design to collect quantitative data from 293 ALHIV at three health facilities in Lira municipality, northern Uganda. We used an interviewer-administered questionnaire and data abstraction form. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23 software. Descriptive analysis and logistic regressions were performed to determine the relationship between the predictor and outcome variables. Statistical significance was determined at P-value<0.05 and the adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used. RESULTS The level of utilization of ART services was suboptimal among 27.6% (81/293) of the participants, and only 63.1% (185/293) were virally suppressed. Of the participants who were optimally utilizing ART services, the majority 86.8% (184/212) were virally suppressed. Age 10-14 years (aOR = 3.34), the presence of both parents (aOR = 1.85), parental and peer reminders (aOR = 2.91) and (aOR = 0.49) respectively, and being on ART for five years or less were the characteristics related with optimal utilization of ART services. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Not all ALHIV used ART services to their full potential. However, factors such as participants' age, the presence of both parents, reminders from parents and peers, and being on ART for some time were all related to the optimal use of ART services. There is a need for developing strategies to increase family and peer support with a focus on older adolescents if the 95-95-95 goal is to be achieved in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Arim
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Patrick Ayer
- Department of Public Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Tom Murungi
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Susan Akullo
- Department of Community Psychology, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Docus Aceng
- Department of Public Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Henry Oboke
- Department of Community Psychology, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Edward Kumakech
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Celestino Obua
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Anna Grace Auma
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
| | - Richard Nyeko
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Lira University, Lira, Uganda
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24
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Byansi W, Nabunya P, Muwanga J, Mwebembezi A, Damulira C, Mukasa B, Zmachinski L, Nattabi J, Brathwaite R, Namuwonge F, Bahar OS, Neilands TB, Mellins CA, Ssewamala FM. The relationship between life satisfaction, personal health, quality of life, and medication adherence among adolescents living with HIV in southwestern Uganda. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 31:1177-1184. [PMID: 37576468 PMCID: PMC10414752 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01632-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) are at high risk for adherence to antiretroviral (ART) treatment and poor health-seeking behaviors, both of which potentially compromise their quality of and satisfaction with life. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the relationship between physical health, pediatric quality of life, life satisfaction, and medication adherence among ALHIV in southwestern Uganda. Methods Baseline data from the Suubi+Adherence study, 2012-2018, that recruited 702 adolescents, aged 10-16 years, living with HIV in Uganda were analyzed. To account for overdispersion, negative binomial regression analyses were used to examine the impact of physical health, pediatric quality of life, and life satisfaction on self-reported medication adherence. We controlled for participants' socio-demographic factors. Results Results indicated that after adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, adolescents' reported satisfaction with life was associated with a decrease in the reported number of days missed taking medication by 41.2% (IRR (incidence risk ratio)=0.588; p (p-value)=0.014). On the other hand, the low level of pediatric quality of life was associated with a 5% increase in the reported number of days missed taking medication (IRR=1.055, p=0.044). Personal health was not statistically significant in the model. Conclusion Our study findings indicated that quality of life and life satisfaction are significantly associated with antiretroviral (ART) medication among ALHIV. Hence, strengthening existing support systems and creating additional support for optimal ART adherence and treatment outcomes for ALHIV in low-resource communities might be beneficial. Moreover, with the increasing HIV prevalence rates among adolescents, effective and comprehensive efforts that are responsive to the special needs of ALHIV must be developed to ensure optimal adherence to ART medication as it leads to low vertical infection and superinfection rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Byansi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Joelynn Muwanga
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | | | - Christopher Damulira
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | | | - Lily Zmachinski
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Claude A. Mellins
- Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street New York, NY 10032, United States
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130
- Reach the Youth Uganda
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Toska E, Zhou S, Chen-Charles J, Gittings L, Operario D, Cluver L. Factors Associated with Preferences for Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2163-2175. [PMID: 36622486 PMCID: PMC9827015 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Long-acting injectable anti-retroviral therapy (LAART) may overcome barriers to long-term adherence and improve the survival of adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYLHIV). Research on the acceptability of LAART for this age-group is limited. We asked 953 AYLHIV about their preferred (theoretical) ART mode of delivery (pill, injectable, or other) in 2017-2018, before LAART was available or known to AYLHIV in South Africa. One in eight (12%) AYLHIV preferred LAART over single or multiple pill regimens. In multivariate analyses, six factors were associated with LAART preference: medication stock-outs (aOR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.40-4.68, p = 0.002), experiencing side-effects (aOR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.15-2.97, p = 0.012), pill-burden (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.20-2.94, p = 0.006), past-year treatment changes (aOR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.06-2.51, p = 0.025), any HIV stigma (aOR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.39-3.53, p ≤ 0.001) and recent ART initiation (aOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.09-3.74, p = 0.025). In marginal effects modelling, 66% of adolescents who experienced all factors were likely to prefer LAART, highlighting the potential high acceptability of LAART among adolescents and young people living with HIV struggling to adhere and have good HIV treatment outcomes. Adolescent boys who reported high ART pill burden were more likely to prefer LAART than their female peers in moderation analyses, suggesting that LAART may be particularly important to improve treatment outcomes among male AYLHIV as they become older. Adding LAART to existing treatment options for AYLHIV, particularly higher risk groups, would support AYLHIV to attain and sustain viral suppression-the third 95, and reduce their risk of AIDS-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Centre for Social Science Research, Leslie Social Sciences Building, University of Cape Town, 4.89, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenny Chen-Charles
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lesley Gittings
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Don Operario
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, UK
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Mitiku A, Solomon Z, Gidisa B, Gebeyhu K, Tewabe H, Shenkute D, Kassa M, Gize A. Prevalence, Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern, and Associated Factors of Enteric Bacterial Pathogens Among HIV Infected Patients with Diarrhea Attending the ART Clinic of Dilla University Referral Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:4227-4236. [PMID: 37404258 PMCID: PMC10317522 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s410759] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In people with human immunodeficiency virus infection, diarrhea is reportedly associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility pattern, and associated factors of enteric bacterial pathogens among HIV infected patients with diarrhea attending the antiretroviral treatment (ART) clinic of Dilla University Referral Hospital, southern Ethiopia. Methods This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 422 study participants attending at ART clinic of Dilla University Referral Hospital from March to August 2022. Demographic and clinical data were collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were inoculated on selective media like Butzller's medium and Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate (XLD) agar. Antimicrobial resistance pattern was assessed by using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion techniques. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to determine the presence of association. Results A total of 422 adult patients were enrolled in this study, 51.7% were females. The mean age of the study participants was 27.4 (±15.6 SD) years. The overall prevalence of enteric pathogens was 14.7% (95% CI=11.4-18.2). Shigella spp was the most prevalent organism. Being a farmer (AOR=5.1; 95% CI=1.4-19.1; p<0.015), the habit of hand washing after toilet (AOR=1.9; 95% CI=1.02-3.47; p<0.04), low CD4 cell count of <200 cells (AOR=2.22; 95% CI=1.15-4.27; p<0.02), and longer duration of diarrhea (AOR=2.68; 95% CI=1.23-5.85; p<0.01) were statistically associated. In total, 98.4% of enteric bacterial isolates were sensitive for Meropenem, whereas 82.5% were resistant against Ampicillin. Multidrug resistance was detected in 49.2% of enteric bacteria. Conclusion We found that enteric bacteria are common causative agents of diarrhea in immune-compromised patients. The high rate of drug resistance calls for escalating antimicrobial susceptibility testing before prescribing antimicrobial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaye Mitiku
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihin Solomon
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Gidisa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Kasie Gebeyhu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Haymanot Tewabe
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Demissew Shenkute
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Debre Birhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia
| | - Melkayehu Kassa
- Department of Microbiology, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Gize
- Department of Microbiology, St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Nabunya P, Samuel K, Ssewamala FM. The effect of family support on self-reported adherence to ART among adolescents perinatally infected with HIV in Uganda: A mediation analysis. J Adolesc 2023; 95:834-843. [PMID: 36810778 PMCID: PMC10257769 DOI: 10.1002/jad.12157] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study examined the mechanisms through which family support affects self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents perinatally infected with HIV in Uganda. METHODS Longitudinal data from 702 adolescent boys and girls (10-16 years) were analyzed. Structural equation models were conducted to assess the direct, indirect, and total effects of family support on adherence. RESULTS Results showed a significant indirect effect of family support on adherence (β = .112, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.052-0.173, p < .001). Specific indirect effects of family support through saving attitudes (β = .058, 95% CI: 0.008-0.108, p = .024), and communication with the guardian (β = .056, 95% CI: 0.012-0.100), p = .013), as well as the total effect of family support on adherence (β = .146 (95% CI: 0.032-0.259, p = .012), were statistically significant. Mediation contributed 76.7% of the total effects. CONCLUSION Findings support strategies to help promote family support and strengthen open communication between adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kizito Samuel
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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MacCarthy S, Mendoza-Graf A, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Wagner Z, Saya U, Chemusto H, Mukasa B, Linnemayr S. A qualitative exploration of health-related present bias among HIV-positive adults in Uganda. AIDS Care 2023; 35:883-891. [PMID: 34802344 PMCID: PMC9123094 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.2004298] [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: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Decision-making errors such as present bias (PB) can have important consequences for health behaviors, but have been largely studied in the financial domain. We conducted a mixed-method study on PB in the context of ART adherence among clinic-enrolled adults in Uganda (n = 39). Specifically, we quantified PB by asking about preferences between medication available sooner to minimize headaches versus available later to cure headaches. We describe demographic similarities among PB participants and qualitatively explored how participants reflected on their PB (or absence thereof) in the context of health. Participants reporting PB were predominantly male, single/unmarried, older, had higher levels of education and income and more advanced HIV progression. Three common reasons for more present-biased choices provided were: (1) wanting to avoid pain, (2) wanting to return to work, and (3) fear of one's health worsening if s/he did not address their illness immediately. While PB in the financial domain often suggests that poorer individuals are more likely to prefer immediate rewards over their wealthier counterparts, our results suggest poor health is potentially a driving factor of PB. Further research is needed to build on these finding and inform how programs can frame key messages regarding ART adherence to patients displaying PB.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03494777.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Indiana University School of Public Health, 1025 E. 7th Street, Bloomington, IN
- Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, 525 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Uzaib Saya
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA
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Mukwevho AC, Maputle MS, Ramathuba DU. Growing Up with HIV: Experiences of Transition from Adolescence to Adulthood at Selected Primary Health Facilities in Limpopo Province, South Africa. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10050798. [PMID: 37238346 DOI: 10.3390/children10050798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children who contracted Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) through vertical transmission are now in their adolescent and early adult years. The aim was to explore the experiences of adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) during the transition from childhood to adulthood. METHODS AND MATERIAL The study was conducted at selected primary healthcare facilities in the Mopani and Vhembe districts in July 2021. A qualitative research approach that included contextual, descriptive, and exploratory designs was used. The population comprised 27 ALWHIV who were purposively sampled and enrolled for ART care. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, and the question was "How is it for you as you live with a virus and transit from adolescent to adulthood". The open coding approach was used to analyse the data. Measures to ensure trustworthiness articulated in Lincoln and Guba's criteria and ethical considerations were adhered to. FINDINGS The findings revealed four themes: poor understanding of the disease condition, improved physical health when adhering to ARV treatments, challenges related to sexual maturity and intimate relationships, and parents not disclosing their children's HIV status. CONCLUSION Parents' delayed and non-disclosure of adolescents' positive HIV status led to a lack of awareness about the course of the disease, non-adherence to ART, and unsafe sex practices that could increase the risk of HIV transmission and re-infection. To address these multiple obstacles associated with ALWHIV, a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach that is teenager-friendly should be undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Sonto Maputle
- Department of Advanced Nursing, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Dorah Ursula Ramathuba
- Department of Advanced Nursing, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
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Puplampu P, Asamoah I, Asare BO, Berko KP, Oladele O, Amankwa E, Lambert F, Afriyie AT, Ganu V. Cryptococcal meningitis among perinatally HIV-infected adolescents: Case series on presentation and management challenges. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e6995. [PMID: 36852119 PMCID: PMC9958000 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.6995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis and management of cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-infected adolescents is challenging in poor resource settings. A high index of suspicion based on clinical presentation is critical for early identification and treatment. This report sought to describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Puplampu
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsUniversity of Ghana Medical SchoolAccraGhana,Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
| | - Isabella Asamoah
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsUniversity of Ghana Medical SchoolAccraGhana,Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
| | - Bismark O. Asare
- Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
| | - Kofi P. Berko
- Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
| | | | | | - Frempong Lambert
- Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
| | | | - Vincent Ganu
- Department of Internal MedicineKorle‐Bu Teaching HospitalAccraGhana
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Dietrich JJ, Jonas K, Cheyip M, Appollis TM, Ariyo O, Beauclair R, Lombard C, Gray GE, Mathews C. Examining the Relationship Between Psychosocial Factors with Knowledge of HIV-Positive Status and Antiretroviral Therapy Exposure Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:231-244. [PMID: 35841462 PMCID: PMC9841063 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03759-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) living with HIV have poor antiretroviral therapy (ART) outcomes. We examined the relationship between psychosocial factors with knowledge of HIV-positive status and antiretroviral therapy exposure among AGYW living with HIV in South Africa. Participants 15-24 years responded to a survey including socio-demographics, psychosocial factors, and HIV testing. Blood was collected to determine HIV status and ART exposure. Multivariable analyses were conducted using R. Of 568 participants with HIV, 356 had knowledge of their HIV-positive status. Social support from family [aOR 1.14 (95% CI 1.04-1.24)] or from a special person [aOR 1.12 (95% CI 1.02-1.23)] was associated with knowledge of HIV-positive status. Resilience [aOR 1.05 (95% CI 1.01-1.08)] was the only psychosocial factor associated with a higher odds of ART exposure. Social support and resilience may increase knowledge of HIV-positive status and ART exposure among South African AGYW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janan J. Dietrich
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kim Jonas
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mireille Cheyip
- Division of Global Health Protection, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tracy McClinton Appollis
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Roxanne Beauclair
- The South African Department of Science and Technology/National Research Foundation (DST-NRF) Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Carl Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global Health, University of Stellenbosch, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Glenda E. Gray
- Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Catherine Mathews
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Bellville, South Africa,Adolescent Health Research Unit, Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Hlophe LD, Tamuzi JL, Shumba CS, Nyasulu PS. Barriers and facilitators to anti-retroviral therapy adherence among adolescents aged 10 to 19 years living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A mixed-methods systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0276411. [PMID: 37200399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) significantly affects adolescents globally, with the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) reporting a high burden of the disease. HIV testing, treatment, and retention to care are low among adolescents. We conducted a mixed-method systematic review to assess anti-retroviral therapy (ART) adherence; barriers and facilitators to ART adherence and ART outcomes among adolescents living with HIV and on ART in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We conducted searches in four scientific databases for studies conducted between 2010 and March 2022 to identify relevant primary studies. Studies were screened against inclusion criteria and assessed for quality, and data was extracted. Meta-analysis of rates and odd ratios was used to plot the quantitative studies and meta-synthesis summarized the evidence from qualitative studies. RESULTS A total of 10 431 studies were identified and screened against the inclusion/ exclusion criteria. Sixty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (41 quantitative, 16 qualitative, and 9 mixed-methods study designs). Fifty-three thousand two hundred and seventeen (53 217) adolescents (52 319 in quantitative studies and 899 in qualitative studies) were included in the review. Thirteen support focused interventions for improved ART adherence were identified from quantitative studies. The plotted results from the meta-analysis found an ART adherence rate of 65% (95%CI 56-74), viral load suppression was 55% (95%CI 46-64), un-suppressed viral load rate of 41% (95%CI 32-50), and loss to follow up of 17% (95%CI 10-24) among adolescents. Meta-synthesis found six themes of barriers to ART (social, patient-based, economic, health system-based, therapy-based, and cultural barriers) in both the qualitative and quantitative studies, and three themes of facilitators to ART were also identified (social support, counselling, and ART education and secrecy or confidentiality) from qualitative studies. CONCLUSION ART adherence remains low among adolescents in SSA despite multiple interventions implemented to improve ART adherence. The low adherence rate may hinder the attainment of the UNAIDS 2030 targets. Additionally, various barriers to ART adherence due to lack of support have been reported among this age group. However, interventions aimed at improving social support, educating, and counselling adolescents may improve and sustain ART adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021284891.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe D Hlophe
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Kingdom of Eswatini
| | - Jacques L Tamuzi
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Peter S Nyasulu
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Nagenda MC, Crowley T. Contextual Factors Influencing Self-Management of Adolescents and Youth Living with HIV: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Lesotho. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:238. [PMID: 36612559 PMCID: PMC9819797 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Background: HIV treatment outcomes of adolescents and youth living with HIV (AYLWH) are lagging. One way to improve outcomes is through supporting AYLWH to acquire self-management skills. Although self-management is associated with improved health outcomes, condition-specific, individual/family, and social/environmental contextual factors influence self-management. We aimed to describe factors influencing the self-management of AYLWH in Lesotho. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used. AYLWH (n = 183) aged 15−24 were conveniently sampled from two HIV treatment sites in Lesotho. Participants completed self-report questionnaires in English or Sesotho. Results: Participants (89.1% female) had high HIV self-management scores (mean 92.7%, SD 5.3%) that corresponded with treatment outcomes (98.9% adherent and 100% viral load < 1000 copies/mL). This might be attributed to condition-specific factors, including once-daily doses (100%) and longer duration of treatment (81.4% on ART for more than 10 years). Participants were older (median age 22), and the majority (61.7%) had stable living conditions. Individual strengths were associated with higher self-management scores (p < 0.01) and mental health problems with lower self-management scores (p < 0.05). Most (97.9%) were satisfied with their health care services. Conclusions: Uncomplicated treatment regimens, longer duration of treatment, stable living conditions, individual strengths, good mental health, and satisfaction with healthcare services have a positive influence on self-management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mapaseka Chabalala Nagenda
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Talitha Crowley
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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Njau T, Ngakongwa F, Sunguya B, Kaaya S, Fekadu A. Development of a Psychological Intervention to Improve Depressive Symptoms and Enhance Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV in Dar es Salaam Tanzania. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122491. [PMID: 36554015 PMCID: PMC9778412 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Interventions that simultaneously target depression and antiretroviral therapy (ART) medication adherence are recommended for improving HIV treatment outcomes and quality of life for adolescents living with HIV. However, evidence is scarce on culturally feasible and acceptable interventions that can be implemented for HIV-positive adolescents in Tanzania. We, therefore, developed a manualized brief psychological intervention that utilizes evidence-based strategies to address depression and ART adherence in adolescents living with HIV in Tanzania. Methods: We used the Theory of Change Enhanced Medical Research Council framework (TOCMRC) for developing complex interventions in health care to develop the intervention in five phases. First, the literature was reviewed to identify potential intervention components. Second, we conducted a situational analysis using qualitative interviews with adolescents living with HIV, health care providers, and caregivers. Third, we conducted a mental health expert workshop; and fourth, theory of change workshops with representatives from the Ministry of Health, mental health professionals, HIV implementing partners, adolescents, and healthcare providers. Lastly, we synthesized results to finalize the intervention and a theory of change map showing the causal pathway for how we expect the developed intervention to achieve its impact. Results: Adolescents living with HIV in Tanzania experience several unmet mental health needs ranging from overwhelming depressive symptoms to not feeling understood by healthcare providers who lack mental health knowledge. Participants perceived psychological intervention that utilizes a task-shifting approach to be acceptable and beneficial to addressing those problems. The novel components of the NITUE intervention included incorporating evidence-based intervention components, namely, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and problem solving. In addition, caregiver inclusion in the treatment was essential to ensure access to care, compliance, and improved outcomes. Conclusions: A culturally appropriate brief psychological intervention that utilizes a task-shifting approach to address depression and medication adherence for adolescents living with HIV in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, was developed. The intervention will be piloted for appropriateness, feasibility, and acceptability and will provide material for a future trial to determine its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasiana Njau
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, The Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, 9 United Nations Road, Upanga West 11103, Dar es Salaam 65001, Tanzania
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 9086, Ethiopia
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 9086, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +255-717547606
| | - Fileuka Ngakongwa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam 65000, Tanzania
| | - Bruno Sunguya
- Department of Community Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, 9 United Nations Road, Upanga West 11103, Dar es Salaam 65001, Tanzania
| | - Sylvia Kaaya
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, The Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, 9 United Nations Road, Upanga West 11103, Dar es Salaam 65001, Tanzania
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 9086, Ethiopia
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 9086, Ethiopia
- Department of Global Health & Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton BN1 9PX, UK
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Game-based health education to improve ART adherence of newly diagnosed young people with HIV: protocol for a stepped-wedge design randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2251. [PMID: 36460991 PMCID: PMC9719159 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14708-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is one of the most effective ways for HIV-infected to treat AIDS. However, it is difficult to start ART among young people those newly diagnosed HIV-infection in China, and their adherence to ART is poor. We have designed an AIDS educational game called AIDS Fighter · Health Defense, which could improve the AIDS-related knowledge and has the potential to improve AIDS prevention ability of young students. In this study, AIDS Fighter · Health Defense will be used with newly diagnosed young people with HIV to evaluate the education effect of the game in improving ART adherence. DESIGN A stepped-wedge design randomized controlled trial will be conducted to confirm the education effect of AIDS Fighter · Health Defense on improving ART adherence of newly diagnosed young people with HIV, and to verify when to start game-based health education could be more effective for newly diagnosed young people with HIV. METHODS Participants will receive AIDS education from health workers and start ART when diagnosed with HIV and assigned into four groups randomly. The first step group to the fourth step group will receive AIDS Fighter · Health Defense in turn at the star of ART, one week, one month and three months after the start of ART. The primary outcomes are medication adherence, CD4( +) T cell count, and HIV viral load. The secondary outcomes are ART-related knowledge, ART-related skills, psychological resilience, and self-discrimination. Assessments will be completed before the intervention and one week, first month, and third month of the intervention, and then a one-year follow-up evaluation will be conducted after the intervention. DISCUSSION AIDS Fighter · Health Defense may be an effective approach to help newly diagnosed young people with HIV to improve ART adherence. A stepped-wedge design randomized controlled trial of this study may find the optimal time of AIDS education to improve ART adherence of newly diagnosed young people with HIV. REGISTRATION NUMBER Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200059766, registered 11 May 2022. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=169420.
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Steinert JI, Shenderovich Y, Smith M, Zhou S, Toska E, Cluver L. Economic Well-being and Associated Mediating Pathways to Improved Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Adolescents Living With HIV: A Prospective Cohort Study in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:343-352. [PMID: 35969470 PMCID: PMC9592174 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV exhibit lower levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) than other age groups. Poverty is a key barrier to ART adherence. This study aims at understanding how alleviating poverty through structural and internal pathways can help increase ART adherence among adolescents. SETTING Eastern Cape province, South Africa. METHODS One thousand forty-six adolescents living with HIV were recruited from 53 public health care facilities and interviewed at 3 data collection waves with a retention rate of 89% and a mortality rate of 3%. Data were collected by face-to-face, device-assisted interviews. Hybrid probit regressions and a structural equation path analysis were used to estimate the association between poverty reduction (increased access to basic necessities) and the pathways by which it could improve ART adherence. RESULTS Self-reported ART adherence ranged from an average of 66% (n = 615) at baseline to 75% (n = 700) in the last wave. Within-person and between-person improvements in economic well-being were associated with significant increases in adolescent ART adherence. On average, adolescents with access to 3 additional basic needs experienced a 4 percentage-point increase in the probability of ART adherence. Structural pathways to improved ART adherence included participants having enough money to travel to the clinic and sufficient food to eat when taking medication. Internal pathways included improved psychological well-being and reduced internalized HIV stigma. CONCLUSION Poverty reduction programs such as HIV-sensitive social protection can address structural and psychological pathways to increase ART adherence among economically disadvantaged adolescents by incentivizing demand-side interventions and the provision of quality essential services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Isabel Steinert
- TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Smith
- United Nations World Food Programme, Nutrition Division, Rome, Italy
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine; and
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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Getaneh Y, Ning F, He Q, Rashid A, Kassa D, Assefa Y, Yi F, Liao L, Shao Y. Survival and Predictors of Mortality among Adults Initiating Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cohort Study (2007-2019). BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:5884845. [PMID: 36467882 PMCID: PMC9711997 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5884845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown high early mortality after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). We examined change in three-year survival and predictors of mortality of patients initiating HAART in Ethiopia since 2007 to 2019. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 47 health facilities (HFs) using records of 11,013 adult patients initiating HAART from 2007 to 2019. Study subjects were stratified as four different cohorts based on their calendar year of HAART initiation: 2007-2010, 2011-2013, 2014-2016, and 2017-2019. HFs were selected using probability proportional to size of patients. Survival rate and predictors of mortality were estimated by the calendar year using the Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard, respectively. We generated a pooled estimate of survival rate and predicators of mortality. RESULTS Data from 1881, 3868, 3004, and 2260 patients were retrieved from each of the cohorts. Overall mortality for all cohorts at all times was 10.3%. A gradual decline of mortality was observed in the first three years of follow-up since 2007-2016 which were 21.37%, 10.03%, and 4.34% among patients who initiated HAART in 2007, 2011, and 2014 respectively. A mortality jump of 9.25% was observed among patents initiating HAART in 2017, which coincided with political instability happened in the country. Of the 21,638 person-years of follow-up among 11,013 adults, mortality was 5.23/100 person-years, while disaggregated by the cohorts, it was 14.77, 5.06, 2.12, and 4.17 per 100 person-years, respectively. Among all the cohorts, patients with CD4 count of ≤200 cells/mm3, unsuppressed viral load, poor adherence, and drug resistance in all cohorts, respectively, have overall 2.0 (95%CI = 1.35 - 2.69), 4.66 (95%CI = 2.53 - 6.72), 6.78 (95%CI = 3.4 - 10.3), and 10.02 (95%CI = 6.91 - 13.82) times of mortality risk than those without. Patients with bedridden for cohort initiating HAART during 2007 and 2011 were 2.0 (95%CI = 1.35 - 2.69) times of mortality risk than those without. CONCLUSION Patients initiating HAART from 2007 to 2016 have continuously improved their survival during three-year cohort follow-up in Ethiopia. The significant decline of survival among those who initiate HAART as of 2017 calls for program intervention. Low CD4 counts, unsuppressed viral load, poor adherence, and drug resistance could be used as predictors for increased mortality to monitor the quality of HAART and improve clinical management of HIV/AIDS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimam Getaneh
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Feng Ning
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qianxin He
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Abdur Rashid
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Desta Kassa
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yibeltal Assefa
- University of Queensland, School of Public Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Feng Yi
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Lingjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, China
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, China
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Jegede OE, van Wyk B. Transition Interventions for Adolescents on Antiretroviral Therapy on Transfer from Pediatric to Adult Healthcare: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14911. [PMID: 36429633 PMCID: PMC9690836 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Globally, adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) experience poor health outcomes such as low retention in care, ART non-adherence and viral non-suppression. These outcomes coincide with the period during and after their transition from pediatric to adult healthcare. This study aimed to systematically describe the compendium of transition interventions and synthesize the effects of such transition interventions on adherence to ART, retention in care and viral load suppression. Seven databases and Google Scholar were searched and the review findings were reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items Stipulated for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The risk of bias and the strength of evidence were assessed using the National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies. Seven studies (two cross-sectional, two retrospective cohort and three prospective cohort studies), with sample sizes ranging from 13 to 192, were included in the narrative synthesis. There was high-quality evidence that these interventions-Individualized care plans, communication, psychological support, and health and sexual education and mHealth-improved adherence, retention in care and viral load suppression at post-transition over the short and long term. In contrast, group transition intervention produced weak quality evidence. Hence, transition interventions including a combination of the high-quality evidenced interventions mentioned above can improve treatment outcomes for adolescents on ART.
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Munyayi FK, van Wyk B. Closing the HIV Treatment Gap for Adolescents in Windhoek, Namibia: A Retrospective Analysis of Predictors of Viral Non-Suppression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192214710. [PMID: 36429431 PMCID: PMC9690371 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Windhoek joined the Fast-Track Cities Initiative in 2017 to optimize HIV service delivery for adolescents, promoting adherence and sustaining viral suppression. Recent surveys and programmatic data show that the treatment gap remains greatest among children and adolescents living with HIV. A retrospective cohort analysis of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Windhoek healthcare facilities was conducted. Routine clinical data were extracted from the electronic Patient Monitoring System (ePMS). The SPSS statistical package was used to determine viral non-suppression and perform inferential statistics. 695 ALHIV were analysed with median age of 16 years (IQR = 13-18). Viral non-suppression at 1000 copies/mL threshold was 12%. Viral non-suppression was associated with age at ART initiation, duration on ART, current ART regimen and WHO Clinical Stage. In multivariate analysis, longer duration on ART was a protective factor for viral non-suppression (13-24 months vs. >24 months: aOR = 8.92, 95% CI 2.60-30.61), while being on third line regimen (vs. first line) was protective against viral non-suppression (aOR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.49). A significant treatment gap is evident for ALHIV with high viral non-suppression levels. Interventions are required to counter treatment fatigue to keep adolescents engaged in ART, and timely switching to rescue regimens for failing adolescents.
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Dvalishvili D, Ssewamala FM, Nabunya P, Sensoy Bahar O, Kizito S, Namuwonge F, Namatovu P. Impact of Family-Based Economic Empowerment Intervention, Suubi+Adherence (2012-2018) on Multidimensional Poverty for Adolescents Living with HIV (ALWHIV) in Uganda. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14326. [PMID: 36361203 PMCID: PMC9657112 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Children growing up in poverty are disproportionately affected by diseases, including HIV. In this study, we use data from Suubi+Adherence, a longitudinal randomized control trial (2012-2018) with 702 adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV), to examine the effectiveness of a family-based multifaceted economic empowerment (EE) intervention in addressing economic instability and multidimensional poverty among ALWHIV in Southern Uganda. We constructed a Multidimensional Poverty Index of individual and household indicators, including health, assets, housing and family dynamics. We computed the proportion of multidimensionally poor children (H), estimated poverty intensity (A) and adjusted headcount ratio (M0). Using repeated measures at five-time points (baseline, years 1, 2, 3 and 4-post baseline) across two study arms: treatment (receiving the EE intervention) vs. control arm (not receiving EE), we find that both the incidence and proportion of multidimensional poverty decreased in the treatment arm vs. the control arm. Given that there is a direct link between economic instability and poor health outcomes, these findings are informative. They point to the potential for family EE interventions to decrease multidimensional poverty among vulnerable children, including ALWHIV, impacting their overall wellbeing and ability to meet their treatment needs and improve HIV care continuum outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fred. M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Phionah Namatovu
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Uganda Office, Masaka 961105, Uganda
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Maskew M, Technau K, Davies MA, Vreeman R, Fox MP. Adolescent retention in HIV care within differentiated service-delivery models in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e726-e734. [PMID: 36088915 PMCID: PMC9927242 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00137-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and young people living with HIV are at risk of disengaging from HIV care at all stages of the care cascade. Differentiated models of care offer simplified HIV-service delivery options in the hope of improving treatment outcomes, including retention on antiretroviral therapy. However, it remains unclear how successful and widespread these models are for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, where the burden of HIV is the greatest. Very few differentiated models of care specifically targeted to adolescents can be found and this priority group are currently ineligible from several models that exist. Where differentiated care has been made available to adolescents, data on the implementation and effectiveness of these interventions remain scarce. Despite this scarcity of evidence on the effectiveness of differentiated care among adolescent populations, several interventions, particularly community-based groups with peer navigators or supporters, might have potential to increase the reach, effectiveness, and adoption of differentiated care in adolescent HIV-care programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhairi Maskew
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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Byansi W, Ssewamala FM, Neilands TB, Bahar OS, Nabunya P, Namuwonge F, McKay MM. The Short-Term Impact of a Combination Intervention on Depressive Symptoms Among School-Going Adolescent Girls in Southwestern Uganda: The Suubi4Her Cluster Randomized Trial. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:301-307. [PMID: 35660128 PMCID: PMC9771640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to examine the short-term impact of a combined intervention consisting of evidence-based family economic empowerment (FEE) and multiple family group (MFG) interventions on depressive symptoms among school-going adolescent girls in southwestern Uganda. METHODS We analyzed longitudinal data from a cluster randomized trial. The sample consisted of 1,260 adolescent girls (aged 14-17 years at enrollment) recruited from senior one and senior two classes across 47 secondary schools in the southwestern region of Uganda. Participants were randomized at the school level to either the control condition receiving bolstered standard of care or one of the two treatment conditions-the treatment one condition receiving the FEE intervention or the treatment two conditions receiving both the FEE plus MFG interventions. Descriptive statistics and a three-level mixed-effects model were conducted to examine the effect of a combination intervention on depressive symptoms. RESULTS At baseline, there were no significant differences between the control condition and both treatment conditions. While all three groups experienced a substantial reduction in depressive symptoms from baseline to 12 months, the reductions were stronger for the two intervention groups. However, FEE + MFG was not significantly different from FEE at 12 months. DISCUSSION Results imply that the FEE intervention may be a promising tool in addressing depressive symptoms among adolescent girls. Therefore, to reduce the long-term implications of adverse psychosocial health during adolescence, policymakers and program implementers should explore scaling up economic empowerment interventions in similar settings to bridge the mental health treatment gap for adolescent girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Byansi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri.
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Mary M. McKay
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Kizito S, Namuwonge F, Brathwaite R, Neilands TB, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Damulira C, Mwebembezi A, Mellins C, McKay MM, Ssewamala FM. Monitoring adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents in Southern Uganda: comparing Wisepill to Self-report in predicting viral suppression in a cluster-randomized trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25990. [PMID: 36052462 PMCID: PMC9437555 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Optimal antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is crucial for improved patient outcomes; however, ART adherence among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) is low. Also, the performance of various adherence measures among ALHIV is under contention. We monitored ART adherence and compared Self-report (SR) and Wisepill electronic monitoring (EM) performance in measuring ART adherence and predicting HIV viral suppression among ALHIV. METHODS Between January 2014 and December 2015, we recruited 702 ALHIV aged 10-16 years into our cluster-randomized controlled trial (2012-2018) in 39 clinics in Uganda. The intervention included a long-term savings child development account, four micro-enterprise workshops and 12 mentorship sessions. Using the entire sample, we performed multilevel logistic regression to predict monthly ART adherence trends for the first year of follow-up. Since it is possible that the intervention had different effects on SR and EM adherence, we used participants in the control arm only to compare adherence using SR and EM and to calculate their sensitivity and specificity in predicting viral suppression. RESULTS There was a significant decline in adherence for each month throughout the entire follow-up period regardless of the group assigned. Good ART adherence was measured at 79.2% (75.2-82.6%) and 97.0% (95.4-98.1%) using EM and SR, respectively. Overall, 64.3% (60.6-67.9%) had suppressed viral loads. The specificities for EM and SR in predicting viral non-suppression were 80.4% (73.6-85.7%) and 96.7% (93.3-98.4%), while the sensitivities were 22.9% (15.0-33.3%) and 1.8% (0.4-6.9%), respectively. The area under the curve was low for both EM and SR, at 53.6% (45.7-61.5%) and 56.2% (53.2-59.3%), respectively. There was high agreement (78%) between SR and EM in monitoring adherence. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlighted the need for strategies for sustained optimal adherence. SR and EM measure adherence with a considerable agreement; however, neither is an accurate predictor of virological outcome. There is still a need for an acceptable, feasible and affordable method that predicts viral suppression among ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and DevelopmentMasakaUganda
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Division of Prevention ScienceUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Christopher Damulira
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | | | - Claude Mellins
- Columbia University, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral StudiesDepartment of PsychiatryNew York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia UniversityNew York CityNew YorkUSA
| | - Mary M. McKay
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown SchoolWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
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Akankunda S, Nambi Najjuma J, Tayebwa S, Byamugisha B, Ariho S, Bahati R. The Role of Mass Media Campaigns in Improving Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents Living with HIV in Southwestern Uganda. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:397-407. [PMID: 36039117 PMCID: PMC9419725 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s375789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Akankunda
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Sandra Tayebwa
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Benjamen Byamugisha
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Sabastian Ariho
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Ronald Bahati
- Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara, Uganda
- Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Correspondence: Ronald Bahati, Bishop Stuart University, Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences, P. o Box 09, Mbarara City, Uganda, Tel +256701512551, Email
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DeAtley T, Harrison A, Mtukushe B, Maughan-Brown B, Muloiwa R, Hoare J, Galárraga O, Kuo C. Conditional Economic Incentives for HIV Treatment Adherence: Aligning Adolescent Developmental Hallmarks with Behavioral Economic Theory to Improve HIV Treatment Adherence. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:272-277. [PMID: 35797651 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent-tailored antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence interventions take place within the context of unique developmental stage. Suboptimal ART adherence among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa underscores that interventions are urgently needed to improve adherence. We conducted semistructured in-depth interviews with 35 adolescents aged 10-19 years living with HIV. In addition, 14 clinicians and 35 caregivers were interviewed to provide a diverse perspective on barriers and facilitators of medication adherence for adolescents living with HIV (ALWH). Thematic coding was utilized for this analysis. Our main findings were organized by following a priori themes: (1) acceptability of conditional economic incentives (CEIs) as an adherence intervention strategy for adolescents, (2) predicted behavioral impacts, and the (3) durability of CEIs to ensure medication adherence for adolescents in the long term. Subthemes that emerged included CEIs as tool to overcome competing demands, increasing intrinsic motivation and orientation toward the future, and optimal timing of the intervention. Exposure to a CEI intervention during early adolescence (ages 10-13) may be a particularly helpful intervention as CEIs may have long-lasting effects given that habit-formation behavior is developed during early adolescence. There is little consensus on effect duration from the perspective of adolescents, clinicians, and caregivers. Future studies should continue to explore the impact of CEIs for long-term ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa DeAtley
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abigail Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Bulelwa Mtukushe
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brendan Maughan-Brown
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rudzani Muloiwa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jackie Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Rehman AM, Simms V, McHugh G, Mujuru H, Ngwira LG, Semphere R, Moyo B, Bandason T, Odland JO, Ferrand RA. Adherence to additional medication for management of HIV-associated comorbidities among older children and adolescents taking antiretroviral therapy. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269229. [PMID: 35704559 PMCID: PMC9200347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Management of co-morbidities among persons living with HIV is an emerging priority, which may require additional medication over and above life-long antiretroviral therapy (ART). We explored factors associated with adherence to the trial drug among children and adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Bronchopulmonary Function in Response to Azithromycin Treatment for Chronic Lung Disease in HIV-Infected Children (BREATHE) trial. Methods The BREATHE trial recruited 6–19 year olds with perinatally acquired HIV and co-morbid chronic lung disease as measured by FEV1. This two-site trial was individually randomised (1:1), double-blind and placebo-controlled. Participants received a once-weekly weight-based dose of 1–5 tablets of azithromycin (AZM: 250mg) or placebo, taken orally. We used pharmacy dispensing records and count of returned pills to measure adherence to study medication. Logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with adherence coverage. Poisson regression with Lexis expansion for time was used to explore whether adherence modified the effect of azithromycin on the incidence of acute respiratory exacerbation, a secondary outcome of the trial. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02426112. Results The 347 participants (median age 15.3, 51% male) consumed 14,622 doses of study medication over 16,220 person-weeks under study. Adherence was higher for those randomised to AZM (73.4%) than placebo (68.4%) and declined over the 48 weeks of the study (Score test for trend <0.02). Those with unsuppressed HIV viral load at baseline had 2.08 (95% CI: 1.19, 3.63) times the odds of non-adherence than those with viral suppression. Differences were also observed between trial sites. Conclusion The majority of children and adolescents tolerated the addition of a once-weekly dose of medication to their pill burden. Barriers in adhering to treatment for co-morbid conditions are likely common to barriers in adhering to ART. Control of co-morbidities will therefore present additional challenges in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M. Rehman
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Victoria Simms
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Grace McHugh
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Lucky G. Ngwira
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Robina Semphere
- Department of Microbiology & HNTI, College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Brewster Moyo
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Jon O. Odland
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science & Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Rashida A. Ferrand
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Elashi BAY, van Wyk BE. Factors associated with viral suppression among adolescents on antiretroviral therapy in Free State province, South Africa. South Afr J HIV Med 2022; 23:1356. [PMID: 35923610 PMCID: PMC9257832 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2019, about 1.7 million adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 years were living with HIV worldwide, of which 170 000 were newly infected with HIV in 2019. South Africa has the highest number of persons living with HIV. Although there has been major improvement in access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), it is still unclear what proportion of adolescents (aged 10–19 years) are virally suppressed in the provinces of South Africa. Objectives To determine the prevalence of and the factors associated with viral suppression among adolescents (10–19 years) on ART in the Thabo Mofutsanyane District Municipality of the Free State province of South Africa. Method A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of demographic, clinical and treatment-related information that were extracted from an electronic database was conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26. Results The median duration on ART was 6.58 years. Although 78% (n = 4520) of adolescents living with HIV who were on ART achieved viral suppression (< 1000 copies/mL), only 9.5% (n = 430) were fully suppressed at < 50 copies/mL. In multivariate analysis, the odds of being virally suppressed reduced with increasing age at ART initiation. Adolescents with CD4 counts greater than 500 cells/mm3 at baseline had a higher odds ratio of viral suppression (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.77; confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–2.47). The odds of viral suppression were significantly lower among those not retained in care (AOR: 0.45; CI: 0.35–0.58). Conclusion Tailored interventions should be developed to improve viral suppression among adolescents on ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balsam A Y Elashi
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brian E van Wyk
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Nyongesa MK, Mwatasa MH, Kagonya VA, Mwambingu G, Ngetsa C, Newton CRJC, Abubakar A. HIV virological non-suppression is highly prevalent among 18- to 24-year-old youths on antiretroviral therapy at the Kenyan coast. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:449. [PMID: 35545757 PMCID: PMC9092782 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07428-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sub-Saharan Africa, data on virologic outcomes of young people living with HIV (YLWH) enrolled on antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains scarce. In this study, we describe the prevalence of HIV virological non-suppression (VNS) and its associated factors among YLWH aged 18-24 years from the Kenyan coast. METHODS Data were analyzed for 384 YLWH who participated in a larger cross-sectional study conducted between November 2018 and September 2019 in two counties at the Kenyan coast (Kilifi and Mombasa). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize sample characteristics and logistic regression was used for statistical modeling of factors associated with VNS. In this study, VNS was defined as plasma viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mL. RESULTS Among these YLWH with a mean age of 20.7 years (SD = 2.2); 55.5% females, the overall prevalence of VNS was 32.0% (95% Confidence interval (95% CI): 27.5, 36.9%). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, being from a largely rural setting (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 1.73, 95% CI 1.10, 2.71; p = 0.02), underweight (aOR 1.87, 95% CI 1.16, 3.01; p = 0.01) and low self-reported ART adherence (aOR 2.83, 95% CI 1.34, 6.00; p = 0.01) were significantly associated with higher odds of VNS in YLWH. CONCLUSIONS In this study, high levels of VNS were observed among YLWH and this was significantly associated with rural residency, nutritional and ART adherence problems. ART adherence counselling and nutritional support and education should be intensified in this setting targeting YLWH residing mostly in rural areas. Given the high frequency of VNS, there is need to closely monitor viral load and profile HIV drug resistance patterns in youths from the Kenyan coast with confirmed virologic failure. The latter will help understand whether drug resistance also contributes to poor viral suppression in addition to, or exclusive of suboptimal ART adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses K. Nyongesa
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mwaganyuma H. Mwatasa
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Vincent A. Kagonya
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Gabriel Mwambingu
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Caroline Ngetsa
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Charles R. J. C. Newton
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya ,grid.449370.d0000 0004 1780 4347Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amina Abubakar
- grid.33058.3d0000 0001 0155 5938KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Box 230, Kilifi, Kenya ,grid.449370.d0000 0004 1780 4347Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.470490.eInstitute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
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Roberts KJ, Smith C, Cluver L, Toska E, Zhou S, Boyes M, Sherr L. Adolescent Motherhood and HIV in South Africa: Examining Prevalence of Common Mental Disorder. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:1197-1210. [PMID: 34570313 PMCID: PMC8940800 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03474-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The mental health of adolescents (10–19 years) remains an overlooked global health issue, particularly within the context of syndemic conditions such as HIV and pregnancy. Rates of pregnancy and HIV among adolescents within South Africa are some of the highest in the world. Experiencing pregnancy and living with HIV during adolescence have both been found to be associated with poor mental health within separate explorations. Yet, examinations of mental health among adolescents living with HIV who have experienced pregnancy/parenthood remain absent from the literature. As such, there exists no evidence-based policy or programming relating to mental health for this group. These analyses aim to identify the prevalence of probable common mental disorder among adolescent mothers and, among adolescents experiencing the syndemic of motherhood and HIV. Analyses utilise data from interviews undertaken with 723 female adolescents drawn from a prospective longitudinal cohort study of adolescents living with HIV (n = 1059) and a comparison group of adolescents without HIV (n = 467) undertaken within the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Detailed study questionnaires included validated and study specific measures relating to HIV, adolescent motherhood, and mental health. Four self-reported measures of mental health (depressive, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and suicidality symptomology) were used to explore the concept of likely common mental disorder and mental health comorbidities (experiencing two or more common mental disorders concurrently). Chi-square tests (Fisher’s exact test, where appropriate) and Kruskal Wallis tests were used to assess differences in sample characteristics (inclusive of mental health status) according to HIV status and motherhood status. Logistic regression models were used to explore the cross-sectional associations between combined motherhood and HIV status and, likely common mental disorder/mental health comorbidities. 70.5% of participants were living with HIV and 15.2% were mothers. 8.4% were mothers living with HIV. A tenth (10.9%) of the sample were classified as reporting a probable common mental disorder and 2.8% as experiencing likely mental health comorbidities. Three core findings emerge: (1) poor mental health was elevated among adolescent mothers compared to never pregnant adolescents (measures of likely common mental disorder, mental health comorbidities, depressive, anxiety and suicidality symptoms), (2) prevalence of probable common mental disorder was highest among mothers living with HIV (23.0%) compared to other groups (Range:8.5–12.8%; Χ2 = 12.54, p = 0.006) and, (3) prevalence of probable mental health comorbidities was higher among mothers, regardless of HIV status (HIV & motherhood = 8.2%, No HIV & motherhood = 8.2%, Χ2 = 14.5, p = 0.002). Results identify higher mental health burden among adolescent mothers compared to never-pregnant adolescents, an increased prevalence of mental health burden among adolescent mothers living with HIV compared to other groups, and an elevated prevalence of mental health comorbidities among adolescent mothers irrespective of HIV status. These findings address a critical evidence gap, highlighting the commonality of mental health burden within the context of adolescent motherhood and HIV within South Africa as well as the urgent need for support and further research to ensure effective evidence-based programming is made available for this group. Existing antenatal, postnatal, and HIV care may provide an opportunity for mental health screening, monitoring, and referral.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark Boyes
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, Australia
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Mwambenu B, Ramoloko V, Laubscher R, Feucht U. Growth and the pubertal growth spurt in South African adolescents living with perinatally-acquired HIV infection. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262816. [PMID: 35077489 PMCID: PMC8789101 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority children living with HIV infection now survive into adulthood because of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), but few data exist on their growth during adolescent years. This study investigated growth patterns and evaluated factors associated with suboptimal growth in adolescents with perinatally-acquired HIV infection. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included HIV-infected adolescents, aged 13 to 18 years, with at least 5 years of ART follow-up at a large HIV clinic in the Gauteng Province, South Africa. Weight-for-age Z-scores (WAZ), height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ) and body mass index (BMI)-for-age Z-scores were calculated using World Health Organization (WHO) growth standards. Growth velocity graphs were generated utilising the mean height change calculated at 6-monthly intervals, using all available data after ART initiation, to calculate the annual change. Other collected data included WHO HIV disease staging, CD4%, HIV viral loads (VLs), ART regimens and tuberculosis co-infection. RESULTS Included were 288 children with a median age of 6.5 years (IQR 4.2;8.6 years) at ART initiation, and 51.7% were male. At baseline the majority of children had severe disease (92% WHO stages 3&4) and were started on non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-based regimens (79.2%). The median CD4% was 13.5% (IQR 7.9;18.9) and median HIV viral load log 5.0 (IQR 4.4;5.5). Baseline stunting (HAZ <-2) was prevalent (55.9%), with a median HAZ of -2.2 (IQR -3.1;-1.3). The median WAZ was -1.5 (IQR -2.5;-0.8), with 29.2% being underweight-for-age (WAZ <-2). The peak height velocity (PHV) in adolescents with baseline stage 3 disease was higher than for those with stage 4 disease. Being older at ART start (p<0.001) and baseline stunting (p<0.001) were associated with poorer growth, resulting in a lower HAZ at study exit, with boys more significantly affected than girls (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Suboptimal growth in adolescents with perinatally-acquired HIV infection is a significant health concern, especially in children who started ART later in terms of age and who had baseline stunting and is more pronounced in boys than in girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilema Mwambenu
- Department of Paediatrics, Kalafong Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Vundli Ramoloko
- Health Systems Research Unit, South Africa Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ria Laubscher
- Biostatistics Unit, South Africa Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ute Feucht
- Department of Paediatrics, Kalafong Hospital, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Research Centre for Maternal, Fetal, Newborn and Child Health Care Strategies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Maternal and Infant Health Care Strategies Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Gauteng Department of Health, Tshwane District Health Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
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