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Alaei K, Kwan B, Torabzadeh HR, Akinwalere AO, Saydamirovich SS, Mohsinzoda G, Alaei A. Progress in Early Detection of HIV in Tajikistan. Viruses 2024; 16:1010. [PMID: 39066173 PMCID: PMC11281724 DOI: 10.3390/v16071010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
HIV early detection (CD4 counts ≥350 cells/μL) is correlated with higher life expectancy among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Several factors, including physical, cultural, structural, and financial barriers, may limit early detection of HIV. This is a first-of-its-kind study on population-level differences in early detection of HIV across time within Tajikistan and any country in the Central Asia region. Utilizing the Tajikistan Ministry of Health's national HIV data (N = 10,700) spanning 2010 to 2023, we developed median regression models with the median CD4 cell count as the outcome and with the following predictors: time (years), region, age, gender, and area (urban/rural status). Individuals younger than 19 years old were detected early for HIV, whereas those older than 39 years were detected late. Females were detected earlier compared to their male counterparts regardless of region of residence. Rural populations were detected earlier in most years compared to their urban counterparts. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated HIV early detection in 2021 but most regions have returned to near pre-pandemic levels of detection in 2022 and 2023. There were differences identified among different demographic and geographic groups which warrant further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamiar Alaei
- Health Science Department, College of Health and Human Services, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA; (K.A.); (B.K.); (A.O.A.)
- Institute for International Health and Education, Albany, NY 12207, USA
| | - Brian Kwan
- Health Science Department, College of Health and Human Services, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA; (K.A.); (B.K.); (A.O.A.)
| | | | - Adebimpe O. Akinwalere
- Health Science Department, College of Health and Human Services, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA; (K.A.); (B.K.); (A.O.A.)
| | - Sattorov S. Saydamirovich
- Tajikistan Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Population Republican AIDS Center, Dushanbe 734000, Tajikistan
| | - Gafur Mohsinzoda
- Tajikistan Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Population, Dushanbe 734000, Tajikistan
| | - Arash Alaei
- Health Science Department, College of Health and Human Services, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA; (K.A.); (B.K.); (A.O.A.)
- Institute for International Health and Education, Albany, NY 12207, USA
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Brisson J, Withers M. Empowering the next generation: integrating adolescents into the Reproductive Justice movement. MEDICAL HUMANITIES 2024; 50:95-102. [PMID: 38388184 DOI: 10.1136/medhum-2023-012730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
This article explores the ethical implications of mandatory parental consent requirements for adolescents seeking sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). Using a Reproductive Justice framework, which identifies systemic barriers to accessing healthcare services, we examine ageism as a potential factor restricting adolescents' access to SRHS. While the Reproductive Justice framework has addressed systemic issues like racism and ableism in healthcare, ageism involving adolescents has been less explored. The article challenges the pertinence of mandatory parental consent requirements-as a potential barrier-for adolescents' access to SRHS. We argue that in the specific context of SRHS (contraceptives, abortion, testing and treatment of sexually transmitted infections), adolescents' autonomy (self-determination) should be respected if they request to access those services independently. From a global health perspective, adolescents have a low prevalence and uneven access to SRHS. To address the issue, we propose the integration of adolescence into the Reproductive Justice movement to empower them through education on how to access the SRHS they need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Brisson
- Department of Social & Preventive Medicine, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Social & Behavioural Health Sciences Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mellissa Withers
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Agbesanwa TA, Aina FO, Ibrahim AO. Knowledge and Awareness of Hepatitis B Infection Among Young Adults in Ekiti, Nigeria: Implications for Education and Vaccination. Cureus 2023; 15:e49778. [PMID: 38161573 PMCID: PMC10757744 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49778] [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: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Hepatitis B is a preventable infection with transmission of the virus through sex, by blood and from mother to child during childbirth. Young adults are prone to some of these risk factors, yet data on awareness and knowledge of hepatitis B among them is still limited in Nigeria and none from our locality. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B among young adults attending a tertiary health institution in Nigeria with the aim of giving recommendations based on the findings. Methods A total of 223 young adults who attended the adolescent and young adult clinic of the Family Medicine Department of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti between 1 March and 31 May 2023 were analyzed using a predesigned self-administered questionnaire. Knowledge of hepatitis B was assessed by asking 12 questions relating to awareness of the disease, basic knowledge, route of transmission, the seriousness of the disease when compared to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), complications from the disease, their vaccination status and the number of doses received by the participants. Results The prevalence of awareness of hepatitis B among respondents was 88 (39.5%). Of the 223 respondents studied, 158 (70.9%) had a poor knowledge score of the disease. There was a significant association between the highest educational background of the respondents and awareness of hepatitis B (p=0.05). Awareness of hepatitis B was also associated with previous participation in any health screening (p=0.04) and vaccine awareness (p=<0.001). The majority of the respondents with good knowledge scores of hepatitis B preferred social media for disseminating information about their health (p=0.03). Out of all the participants studied, only one (0.4%) had completed the three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine with 11 (4.9%) of them yet to get fully vaccinated. Conclusion Efforts are needed to target social media platforms with information about hepatitis B and vaccination. With awareness campaigns of hepatitis B directed at various social media platforms, this population at risk could be educated about the disease and the benefits of vaccination. The low vaccination state among the respondents brought to the fore the urgent need for the government to ensure the provision of appropriate interventions for viral hepatitis among young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felix O Aina
- Family Medicine, Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, NGA
| | - Azeez O Ibrahim
- Family Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital Ido Ekiti, Ido Ekiti, NGA
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Dayton RL, Fonner VA, Plourde KF, Sanyal A, Arney J, Orr T, Nhamo D, Schueller J, Limb AM, Torjesen K. A Scoping Review of Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Cisgender and Transgender Adolescent Girls and Young Women: What Works and Where Do We Go from Here? AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3223-3238. [PMID: 37119401 PMCID: PMC10148005 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04043-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are disproportionately affected by HIV, and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV acquisition. The purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize results from interventions along the PrEP continuum for AGYW to inform research and programs. We searched electronic databases for studies published between January 2012-July 2021 and conducted secondary reference searching. Studies were included if they assessed interventions to increase PrEP interest, uptake, or continuation among AGYW. Results were synthesized narratively. Of 2168 citations identified, 50 studies were eligible for inclusion, and 20 contained AGYW-specific data. Among cisgender and transgender AGYW, studies overall demonstrated a positive impact on PrEP interest and uptake but generally attained suboptimal continuation rates. Results demonstrate feasibility of deploying PrEP across diverse settings-particularly when interventions are layered, tailored to AGYW, and include differentiated delivery-but also highlight knowledge gaps and the need for more holistic metrics of success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ameya Sanyal
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer Arney
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tracy Orr
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Jane Schueller
- United States Agency for International Development, Bureau of Global Health, Office of Population and Reproductive Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Annaliese M Limb
- United States Agency for International Development, Bureau of Global Health, Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington, DC, USA
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Olashore AA, Chiliza B, Paruk S. Antiretroviral therapy non-adherence and its relationship with cognitive impairment, alcohol use disorder, and depression in adolescents living with HIV. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:532. [PMID: 37488527 PMCID: PMC10367307 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05000-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare antiretroviral non-adherence in the behaviourally infected (BIAs) and congenitally infected adolescents (CIAs) and explore its associations with depression, cognitive impairment, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) in adolescents living with HIV(ALWHIV) in Botswana. METHODS This study was a cross-sectional, comparative, multi-center research that involved collecting samples from different HIV clinics in Botswana. Of the 622 ALWHIV, 223 were identified as BIAs and 399 as CIAs. They were evaluated using various tools such as MINI-KID for psychiatric disorders, DSM-5 for AUD, CAT-rapid for cognitive assessment, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for non-adherence (the outcome). The data were analysed using both bivariate and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS The participants' mean age (SD) was 17.7(1.60). The CIAs were more likely to have cognitive impairment (t -7.25; p < 0.01), while the BIAs had more depression (χ2 = 5.86; p = 0.016) and AUD (χ2 = 4.39; p = 0.036) and were more likely to be non-adherent (t = 3.14; p = 0.002). In the CIA group, cognitive impairment (AOR = 2.86; 95% CI:1.77-4.64) (AOR = 2.79; 95%CI:1.73-4.48) and depression (AOR = 2.69; 95%CI:1.48-4.90 were associated with ART non-adherence. In the BIA group, depression (AOR = 2.55; 95%CI:1.27-5.16), AUD (AOR = 2.58; 95%CI:1.21-5.49) and struggling to accept status (AOR = 2.54; 95%CI:1.41-4.56) predicted non-adherence to treatment. CONCLUSION The two groups of adolescents differ regarding ART non-adherence and associated psychosocial issues, indicating the need for differentiated care to address non-adherence in the ALWHIV, especially in high-burden, resource-constrained settings, such as Botswana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A Olashore
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Bonginkosi Chiliza
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Saeeda Paruk
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Embleton L, Shah P, Apondi E, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. "If they had a place to live, they would be taking medication": a qualitative study identifying strategies for engaging street-connected young people in the HIV prevention-care continuum in Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26023. [PMID: 37267115 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26023] [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: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Street-connected young people (SCY) experience structural and social barriers to engaging in the HIV prevention-care continuum. We sought to elicit recommendations for interventions that may improve SCY's engagement along the HIV prevention-care continuum from healthcare providers, policymakers, community members and SCY in Kenya. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted in Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Nakuru and Kitale counties in Kenya between May 2017 and September 2018 to explore and describe the public perceptions of, and proposed and existing responses to, the phenomenon of SCY. This secondary analysis focuses on a subset of data interviews that investigated SCY's healthcare needs in relation to HIV prevention and care. We conducted 41 in-depth interviews and seven focus group discussions with 100 participants, of which 43 were SCY. In total, 48 participants were women and 52 men. RESULTS Our analysis resulted in four major themes corresponding to stages in the HIV prevention-care continuum for key populations. We identified the need for an array of strategies to engage SCY in HIV prevention and testing services that are patient-centred and responsive to the diversity of their circumstances. The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis was a biomedical prevention strategy that SCY and healthcare providers alike stressed the need to raise awareness around and access to for SCY. Several healthcare providers suggested peer-based approaches for engaging SCY throughout the continuum. However, SCY heavily debated the appropriateness of using peer-based methods. Structural interventions, such as the provision of food and housing, were suggested as strategies to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence. CONCLUSIONS This study identified contextually relevant interventions that should be adapted and piloted for use with SCY. Education and sensitization of SCY and healthcare providers alike were identified as possible strategies, along with affordable housing and anti-poverty strategies as cash transfers and provision of food. Peer-based interventions are a clear option but require SCY-specific adaptation to be implemented effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Embleton
- Centre for Global Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pooja Shah
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Edith Apondi
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Science, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
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Jalil EM, Wilson E, Monteiro L, Varggas T, Moura I, Torres TS, Hoagland B, Cardoso SW, Ismerio Moreira R, Gonçalves Veloso Dos Santos V, Grinsztejn B. A Peer-Led Digital Intervention to Reduce HIV Prevention and Care Disparities Among Young Brazilian Transgender Women (The BeT Study): Protocol for an Intervention Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e44157. [PMID: 36735296 PMCID: PMC9938440 DOI: 10.2196/44157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The HIV epidemic continues to disproportionately burden marginalized populations despite the availability of effective preventive and therapeutic interventions. Transgender women are severely affected by HIV worldwide including in Brazil and other low- and middle-income countries, with evidence of increasing new infections among young people. There is an urgent need for youth-specific HIV prevention and care interventions for young transgender women in Brazil. OBJECTIVE This study aims to (1) address stigma in the Brazilian public health system and (2) reduce barriers to HIV care and prevention with systems navigation among young transgender women aged 18-24 years in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS The Brilhar e Transcender (BeT) study is a status-neutral, peer-led, single-arm digital intervention study enrolling 150 young transgender women in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The intervention was pilot tested and refined using data from a formative phase. The BeT intervention takes place over 3 months, is delivered remotely via mobile phone and in person by peers, and comprises three components: (1) BeT sessions, (2) digital interactions, and (3) automated messages. Eligibility criteria include identifying as transgender women, being aged 18-24 years, speaking in Portuguese, and living in the Rio de Janeiro metropolitan area in Brazil. The primary outcomes are HIV incidence, pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake, linkage to HIV care, and viral suppression. Primary outcomes were assessed at baseline and quarterly for 12 months. Participants respond to interviewer-based surveys and receive tests for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. RESULTS The study has been approved by the Brazilian and the US local institutional review boards in accordance with all applicable regulations. Study recruitment began in February 2022 and was completed in early July 2022. Plans are to complete the follow-up assessment of study participants on July 2023, analyze the study data, and disseminate intervention results by December 2023. CONCLUSIONS Interventions to engage a new generation of transgender women in HIV prevention and care are needed to curb the epidemic. The BeT study will evaluate a digital peer-led intervention for young transgender women in Brazil, which builds on ways young people engage in systems and uses peer-led support to empower transgender youth in self-care and health promotion. A promising evaluation of the BeT intervention may lead to the availability of this rapidly scalable status-neutral HIV intervention that can be translated throughout Brazil and other low- and middle-income countries for young transgender women at high risk of or living with HIV. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05299645; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05299645. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/44157.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Moreira Jalil
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Erin Wilson
- Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Laylla Monteiro
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thaylla Varggas
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabele Moura
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Thiago S Torres
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Brenda Hoagland
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sandra Wagner Cardoso
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Ismerio Moreira
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Li H, Shah SK, Healy E, Agot K, Neary J, Wilson K, Badia J, Atieno WO, Moraa H, Meischke H, Kibugi J, Inwani I, Chhun N, Mukumbang FC, John‐Stewart G, Kohler P, Beima‐Sofie K. "[T]he laws need to change to reflect current society": Insights from stakeholders involved in development, review or implementation of policies about adolescent consent for HIV testing, care and research in Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26057. [PMID: 36642867 PMCID: PMC9841068 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Engaging adolescents in HIV care and research promotes the development of interventions tailored to their unique needs. Guidelines generally require parental permission for adolescents to receive HIV care/testing or participate in research, with exceptions. Nevertheless, parental permission requirements can restrict adolescent involvement in care and research. To better appreciate prospects for policy reform, we sought to understand the perspectives of stakeholders involved in the development, review and implementation of policies related to adolescents living with HIV. METHODS Semi-structured individual interviews (IDIs) were conducted from October 2019 to March 2020 with 18 stakeholders with expertise in the (1) development of policy through membership in the Law Society of Kenya or work as a health policy official; (2) review of policy through ethics review committee service; or (3) implementation of policy through involvement in adolescent education. IDIs were conducted in English by Kenyan social scientists, audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We used thematic analysis to identify themes around how policies can be reformed to improve adolescent engagement in HIV care and research. RESULTS Our analysis identified three major themes. First, policies should be flexible rather than setting an age of consent. Stakeholders noted that adolescents' capacity for engagement in HIV care and research depended on context, perceived risks and benefits, and "maturity"-and that age was a poor proxy for the ability to understand. Second, policies should evolve with changing societal views about adolescent autonomy. Participants recognized a generational shift in how adolescents learn and mature, suggesting the need for a more frequent review of HIV care and research guidelines. Third, adults should empower adolescent decision-making. Stakeholders felt that caregivers can gradually involve adolescents in decision-making to equip them to gain ownership over their health and lives, improving their confidence and capacity. CONCLUSIONS Revising relevant laws to consider context, alternative measures of maturity, and evolving societal views about adolescence, along with supporting caregivers to assist in developing adolescent autonomy may promote more equitable and representative participation of adolescents in HIV care and research. Additional research should explore how to support caregivers and other adults to empower adolescents and improve stakeholder engagement in a more routine process of policy reform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huangqianyu Li
- Department of Health ServicesUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Seema K. Shah
- Department of PediatricsNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineChicagoIllinoisUSA,Bioethics Program at Lurie Children's HospitalChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Elise Healy
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research and Development OrganizationKisumuKenya
| | - Jillian Neary
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kate Wilson
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Jacinta Badia
- Impact Research and Development OrganizationKisumuKenya
| | | | - Hellen Moraa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child HealthUniversity of NairobiNairobiKenya
| | - Hendrika Meischke
- Department of Health ServicesUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - James Kibugi
- Impact Research and Development OrganizationKisumuKenya
| | - Irene Inwani
- University of Nairobi/Kenyatta National HospitalNairobiKenya
| | - Nok Chhun
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | | | - Grace John‐Stewart
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA,Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA,Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA,Department of PediatricsUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Pamela Kohler
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA,Department of ChildFamily and Population Health NursingUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Olashore AA, Paruk S, Akanni OO, Chiliza B. Psychiatric disorders in adolescents living with HIV in Botswana. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:2. [PMID: 36600270 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00490-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As children living with HIV transition from adolescence into adulthood, they face a considerable burden of psychiatric disorders (PDs) which may vary between the perinatally and behaviorally infected. The knowledge of the pattern of these PDs in relation to the varying needs of the adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) is unclear but necessary for maximizing their linkage to care and improving their quality of life in Botswana. AIM: To determine the pattern of PDs in ALWHIV in Botswana; to compare and explore the differences in the pattern and their associated factors between congenitally infected adolescents (CIAs) and behaviorally infected adolescents (BIAs). METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 622 ALWHIV (399 CIA and 223 BIA) with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview-Kid Screen. RESULTS The participants' mean age (SD) was 17.71 (1.60) years, with more males (54%), of whom 52.9% had at least one PD, with depression (23.6%) and generalised anxiety disorder (18.0%) being the most prevalent. The externalising disorders were associated with being CIA (OR = 3.99; 95% CI:1.87-8.54), male gender (OR = 3.93; 95% CI:2.02-7.64), and a viral load of 400 and above copies (OR = 3.53; 95%CI:1.92-6.48). Internalising disorders were associated with being BIA (OR = 3.64; 95%; CI: 2.39-5.56), females (OR = 2.59; 95% CI:1.75-3.83), poor counselling (OR = 2.23; 95% CI: 1.42-3.51) and struggling to accept HIV status (OR = 1.73; 95% CI:1.14-2.62). CONCLUSIONS Depression and anxiety disorders were the most prevalent PDs in ALWHIV, who differed in psychiatric presentations, the BIAs being more likely to present with internalizing disorders, while the CIAs had more externalizing disorders. Due to the varying needs of ALWHIV, individualized management plans that consider gender, mode of infection, and other psycho-social needs, should be further studied and encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A Olashore
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.
| | - Saeeda Paruk
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Oluyemi O Akanni
- Department of Clinical Services, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Bonginkosi Chiliza
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Khryanin AA, Shpiks TA, Russkikh MV. Comparative analysis of sexual behavior and assessment of awareness of STIs and HIV infection among young people of two generations. VESTNIK DERMATOLOGII I VENEROLOGII 2022. [DOI: 10.25208/vdv1379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A comparative analysis of the results of a survey of young people (belonging to two different generations: millennials and zoomers) on sexual behavior and awareness of STIs and HIV infection allows us to assess the existing characteristics of the sexual behavior of young people and contribute to the further improvement of preventive measures among young people regarding STI/HIV infection.
Aims: Comparative analysis of sexual behavior and assessment of the level of knowledge about STIs and HIV infection among young people (generations Y and Z).
Materials and methods: For a comparative assessment of the level of awareness on the issues of prevention and risky sexual behavior in relation to STIs and HIV infection, data from earlier sociological surveys of young people in 20012002 and in 20172020 in the city of Novosibirsk were used. Among the respondents, a questionnaire was used, consisting of 23 questions, developed by the staff of the Department of Dermatovenereology of the St. acad. I.P. Pavlov and the Center for the Sociology of Deviance and Social Control of the Institute of Sociology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, adapted by the authors. Statistical analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel and SPSS programs. The 2 test and the independent Student's t-test were evaluated. Statistical significance was set as p0.05
Results: A total of 772 young men took part in the study, of which 321 students were interviewed in 2001-2002. (Generation Y), and 451 students in 2017-2020. (Generation Z). The results show that generations of young people (millineals and zoomers) differ from each other in terms of the source of information about STIs, sexual intercourse with strangers, condom use, and the frequency of same-sex sexual intercourse.
Conclusions: There is a positive trend in the sexual behavior of the younger generation. But a more structured promotion of STI/HIV prevention is needed, which will take into account current trends and features of obtaining information from young people.
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Goldstein M, Archary M, Adong J, Haberer JE, Kuhns LM, Kurth A, Ronen K, Lightfoot M, Inwani I, John-Stewart G, Garofalo R, Zanoni BC. Systematic Review of mHealth Interventions for Adolescent and Young Adult HIV Prevention and the Adolescent HIV Continuum of Care in Low to Middle Income Countries. AIDS Behav 2022; 27:94-115. [PMID: 36322217 PMCID: PMC9629200 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03840-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults (AYA) in low to middle income countries (LMIC) have poorer outcomes along each step in the HIV continuum of prevention and care compared to younger children or older adults. The use of mHealth technology provides a potentially promising implementation strategy for interventions to remedy these disparities. We therefore conducted a systematic review of the English literature and conference proceedings from January 1, 2000 to April 1, 2021 evaluating mHealth interventions targeting AYA along each step of the HIV continuum of care in LMIC. We identified 27 mHealth interventions across the HIV continuum, with no interventions addressing transition from pediatric to adult care. The majority of studies were single arm, uncontrolled or underpowered, with few randomized trials resulting in mixed and inconclusive outcomes. mHealth interventions have potential to remedy disparities along the HIV continuum of care for AYA in LMIC but larger, powered randomized trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Goldstein
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Moherndran Archary
- University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa
- King Edward VIII Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Julian Adong
- Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Lisa M Kuhns
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Keshet Ronen
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Marguerita Lightfoot
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies and UCSF Prevention Research Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Robert Garofalo
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian C Zanoni
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America.
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States of America.
- Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Leshargie CT, Demant D, Burrowes S, Frawley J. The proportion of loss to follow-up from antiretroviral therapy (ART) and its association with age among adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272906. [PMID: 35951621 PMCID: PMC9371308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains a global health threat, especially in developing countries. The successful scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs to address this threat is hindered by a high proportion of patient loss to follow-up (LTFU). LTFU is associated with poor viral suppression and increased mortality. It is particularly acute among adolescents, who face unique adherence challenges. Although LTFU is a critical obstacle on the continuum of care for adolescents, few regional-level studies report the proportion of LTFU among adolescents receiving ART. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the pooled LTFU in ART programs among adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods We searched five databases (PubMed, Embase (Elsevier), PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus) for articles published between 2005 and 2020 and reference lists of included articles. The PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. A standardised checklist to extract data was used. Descriptive summaries were presented using narrative tables and figures. Heterogeneity within the included studies was examined using the Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 test. Random effect models were used to estimate the pooled prevalence of LTFU among ALHIV. We used Stata version 16 statistical software for our analysis. Results Twenty-nine eligible studies (n = 285,564) were included. An estimated 15.07% (95% CI: 11.07, 19.07) of ALHIV were LTFU. Older adolescents (15–19 years old) were 43% (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.87) more likely to be LTFU than younger (10–14 years old) adolescents. We find an insignificant relationship between gender and LTFU (AOR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.03). A subgroup analysis found that regional differences in the proportion of adolescent LTFU were not statistically significant. The trend analysis indicates an increasing proportion of adolescent LTFU over time. Conclusions and recommendations The proportion of LTFU among HIV-positive adolescents in SSA seems higher than those reported in other regions. Older adolescents in the region are at an increased risk for LTFU than younger adolescents. These findings may help policymakers develop appropriate strategies to retain ALHIV in ART services. Such strategies could include community ART distribution points, appointment spacing, adherence clubs, continuous free access to ART, and community-based adherence support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheru Tesema Leshargie
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Science, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Daniel Demant
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Sahai Burrowes
- Public Health Program, College of Education and Health Sciences, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States of America
| | - Jane Frawley
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
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Similar Sexual Behaviour yet Different Outcomes: Comparing Trans and Gender Diverse and Cis PrEP Users in Germany Based on the Outcomes of the PrApp Study. SEXES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/sexes3010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Little knowledge about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use in trans and gender diverse (TGD) communities in Germany exists. The PrApp Study collected data on PrEP use and sexual behaviour among PrEP users in Germany. Descriptive methods and logistic regression were used to describe PrEP use among TGD and cis persons. A total of 4350 PrEP users in Germany were included, with 65 (1.5%) identified as TGD. Compared to cis participants, TGD participants were younger (median age 29 vs. 37 years) and more likely to have a lower income (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.4; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.4–8.2) and be born outside Germany (aOR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.3–4.5). On-demand PrEP use was higher in TGD participants (aOR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.0–3.5) and numerically more TGD obtained PrEP from informal sources (aOR = 1.8; 95% CI = 0.9–3.5). Testing behaviour, condom use, and number of sexual partners were comparable between both groups. Socioeconomic disparities may constitute structural barriers for TGD people to access PrEP, leading to more informal and on-demand use. PrEP providers need to reduce access barriers for TGD PrEP users and provide information on safe PrEP use for this population.
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Burke VM, Frimpong C, Miti S, Mwansa JK, Abrams EA, Merrill KG, Denison JA. "It must start with me, so it started with me": A qualitative study of Project YES! youth peer mentor implementing experiences supporting adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Ndola, Zambia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261948. [PMID: 35113861 PMCID: PMC8812956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about youth-led approaches to addressing HIV-related outcomes among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV. In response, Project YES! hired and trained youth living with HIV as peer mentors (YPMs) in four HIV clinics in Ndola, Zambia to hold meetings with 276 15-24-year-olds living with HIV. Within this randomized controlled trial, a qualitative sub-study was conducted to explore YPMs' implementing experiences. METHODS In-depth interviews were conducted with the eight YPMs (50% female) ages 21-26 years. YPMs were asked about their experiences working with clients, their feedback on program components, and what the experience meant to them personally and professionally. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS YPMs connected with AYA clients by discussing shared struggles, modeling positive health behaviors, and establishing judgement-free environments. YPMs experienced powerful personal transformations in HIV-related health behaviors, conceptions of self, and plans for the future. Many expressed now seeing themselves as community leaders-"ambassadors", "game changers"-and "not just alone in this world." They described newfound commitments to reaching personal and professional goals. YPMs were adamant that Project YES! should expand so other HIV-positive AYA might benefit. CONCLUSION Well-trained and compensated YPMs who are integrated into HIV clinics can support AYA in unique and important ways due to their shared experiences. The transformational experience of becoming YPMs empowers youth to see themselves as role models and leaders. Future programs should engage youth living with HIV as partners in efforts to end the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia M. Burke
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Sam Miti
- Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, Ndola, Zambia
| | | | - Elizabeth A. Abrams
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katherine G. Merrill
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Saberi P, Eskaf S, Campbell CK, Neilands TB, Sauceda JA, Dubé K. Exploration of a Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale's association with antiretroviral adherence among young adults living with HIV in the United States. Mhealth 2022; 8:23. [PMID: 35928514 PMCID: PMC9343971 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-21-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adults living with HIV (YLWH) have suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV care outcomes. Mobile health technologies are increasingly used to deliver interventions to address HIV health outcomes. However, not all YLWH have equal and consistent access to mobile technologies. METHODS Using our novel Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale (MTVS) to evaluate how vulnerable an individual feels with regard to their personal access to mobile technology in the past 6 months, we conducted a cross-sectional online survey with 271 YLWH (18-29 years) in the US to evaluate the relationships between MTVS and self-reported ART adherence. RESULTS Participants reported changes in phone numbers (25%), stolen (14%) or lost (22%) phones, and disconnections of phone service due to non-payment (39%) in the past 6 months. On a scale of 0 to 1 (0 having no mobile technology vulnerability and 1 having complete mobile technology vulnerability), participants had a mean MTVS of 0.33 (SD =0.26). Black and financially constrained participants had the highest MTVS, which was significantly higher that other racial/ethnic and financially non-constrained groups, respectively. Higher MTVS was significantly associated with ART non-adherence and non-persistence. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest the need to measure MTVS to recognize pitfalls when using mobile health interventions and identify populations whose inconsistent mobile technology access may be related to worse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parya Saberi
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shadi Eskaf
- School of Government, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chadwick K. Campbell
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John A. Sauceda
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karine Dubé
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Boothe MAS, Semá Baltazar C, Sathane I, Raymond HF, Fazito E, Temmerman M, Luchters S. Young key populations left behind: The necessity for a targeted response in Mozambique. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261943. [PMID: 34972172 PMCID: PMC8719759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The first exposure to high-risk sexual and drug use behaviors often occurs during the period of youth (15-24 years old). These behaviors increase the risk of HIV infection, especially among young key populations (KP)-men how have sex with men (MSM), female sex workers (FSW), and people who inject drugs (PWID). We describe the characteristics of young KP participants in the first Biobehavioral Surveillance (BBS) surveys conducted in Mozambique and examine their risk behaviors compared to adult KP. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) methodology was used to recruit KP in three major urban areas in Mozambique. RDS-weighted pooled estimates were calculated to estimate the proportion of young KP residing in each survey city. Unweighted pooled estimates of risk behaviors were calculated for each key population group and chi-square analysis assessed differences in proportions between youth (aged less than 24 years old) and older adult KP for each population group. RESULTS The majority of MSM and FSW participants were young 80.7% (95% CI: 71.5-89.9%) and 71.9% (95% CI: 71.9-79.5%), respectively, although not among PWID (18.2%, 95% CI: 13.2-23.2%). Young KP were single or never married, had a secondary education level or higher, and low employment rates. They reported lower perception of HIV risk (MSM: 72.3% vs 56.7%, p<0.001, FSW: 45.3% vs 24.4%, p<0.001), lower HIV testing uptake (MSM: 67.5% vs 72.3%, p<0.001; FSW: 63.2% vs 80.6%; p<0.001, PWID: 53.3% vs 31.2%; p = 0.001), greater underage sexual debut (MSM: 9.6% vs 4.8%, p<0.001; FSW: 35.2% vs 22.9%, p<0.001), and greater underage initiation of injection drug use (PWID: 31.9% vs 7.0%, p<0.001). Young KP also had lower HIV prevalence compared to older KP: MSM: 3.3% vs 27.0%, p<0.001; FSW: 17.2% vs 53.7%, p<0.001; and PWID: 6.0% vs 55.0%, p<0.001. There was no significant difference in condom use across the populations. CONCLUSION There is an immediate need for a targeted HIV response for young KP in Mozambique so that they are not left behind. Youth must be engaged in the design and implementation of interventions to ensure that low risk behaviors are sustained as they get older to prevent HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makini A. S. Boothe
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Cynthia Semá Baltazar
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- National Institute of Health, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Isabel Sathane
- National STI-HIV/AIDS Control Program, National Directorate of Public Health, Mozambique
| | - Henry F. Raymond
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Erika Fazito
- ICAP, Columbia University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Marleen Temmerman
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Population Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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17
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Tucker JD, Iwelunmor J, Abrams E, Donenberg G, Wilson EC, Blachman-Demner D, Laimon L, Taiwo BO, Kuhns LM, John-Stewart GC, Kohler P, Subramanian S, Ayieko J, Gbaja-Biamila T, Oladele D, Obiezu-Umeh C, Chima KP, Jalil EM, Falcao J, Ezechi OC, Kapogiannis BG. Accelerating adolescent HIV research in low-income and middle-income countries: evidence from a research consortium. AIDS 2021; 35:2503-2511. [PMID: 34870930 PMCID: PMC8901045 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many adolescents and young adults (AYA) have unmet HIV prevention needs. We describe the Prevention and Treatment through a Comprehensive Care Continuum for HIV-affected Adolescents in Resource Constrained Settings (PATC3H) consortium organization, transition milestones, and youth engagement strategies. The PATC3H consortium focuses on reducing HIV incidence and related health disparities among AYA. DESIGN AND METHODS Organizational data were obtained from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and supplemented with a brief survey completed by study principal investigators. Transition from the initial phase (years 1 and 2) to the subsequent phase (years 3 and 5) was contingent on meeting prespecified milestones. We reviewed the structure and function of the research consortium, identified shared elements of transition milestones, and examined common youth engagement strategies. RESULTS The PATC3H consortium supports eight research studies through a milestone transition mechanism. The consortium includes AYA HIV research studies in seven countries - Brazil, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, and Zambia. The NIH request for applications required transition milestones that included early consultation with stakeholders. The transition milestones required by NIH for the eight studies included early consultation with health and policy stakeholders, pilot intervention data, and commitment from national government stakeholders. All studies provided multiple pathways for AYA engagement, including AYA advisory boards and youth-led research studies. CONCLUSION Data suggest that requiring milestones to transition to the final phase may have facilitated health and policy stakeholder engagement and enhanced formative assessment of regulatory protocols. These data have implications for designing engaged research studies in low and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph D. Tucker
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor
- Behavioral Science and Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Elaine Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
- Epidemiology Department, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geri Donenberg
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Erin C. Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA 94102
| | - Dara Blachman-Demner
- Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | | | - Babafemi O. Taiwo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa M. Kuhns
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Grace C. John-Stewart
- Departments of Global Health, Medicine, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Pamela Kohler
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 1510 San Juan Road NE, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Titilola Gbaja-Biamila
- Behavioral Science and Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - David Oladele
- Behavioral Science and Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Chisom Obiezu-Umeh
- Behavioral Science and Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Kelechi P. Chima
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Emilia M. Jalil
- National Institute of Infectious Diseases, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joana Falcao
- ICAP at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oliver C. Ezechi
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Bill G. Kapogiannis
- Maternal and Pediatric Infectious Diseases Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, USA
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El-Khechen HA, Khan MIU, Leenus S, Olaiya O, Durrani Z, Masood Z, Leenus A, Akhter S, Mbuagbaw L. Design, analysis, and reporting of pilot studies in HIV: a systematic review and methodological study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2021; 7:211. [PMID: 34847957 PMCID: PMC8630899 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-021-00934-9] [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: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pilot studies are essential in determining if a larger study is feasible. This is especially true when targeting populations that experience stigma and may be difficult to include in research, such as people with HIV. We sought to describe how pilot studies have been used to inform HIV clinical trials. Methods We conducted a methodological study of pilot studies of interventions in people living with HIV published until November 25, 2020, using Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials (CENTRAL). We extracted data on their nomenclature, primary objective, use of progression criteria, sample size, use of qualitative methods, and other contextual information (region, income, level, type of intervention, study design). Results Our search retrieved 10,597 studies, of which 248 were eligible. The number of pilot studies increased steadily over time. We found that 179 studies (72.2%) used the terms “pilot” or “feasibility” in their title, 65.3% tested feasibility as a primary objective, only 2% used progression criteria, 23.9% provided a sample size estimation and only 30.2% used qualitative methods. Conclusions Pilot studies are increasingly being used to inform HIV research. However, the titles and objectives are not always consistent with piloting. The design and reporting of pilot studies in HIV could be improved. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40814-021-00934-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Ali El-Khechen
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4L8, Canada.
| | - Mohammed Inam Ullah Khan
- Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O'Sullivan Research Centre, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Selvin Leenus
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Oluwatobi Olaiya
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zoha Durrani
- Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV, USA
| | - Zaryan Masood
- Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alvin Leenus
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shakib Akhter
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Lawrence Mbuagbaw
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4L8, Canada.,Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O'Sullivan Research Centre, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Center for the Development of Best Practices in Health, Yaoundé, Cameroon
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Voyiatzaki C, Venetikou MS, Papageorgiou E, Anthouli-Anagnostopoulou F, Simitzis P, Chaniotis DI, Adamopoulou M. Awareness, Knowledge and Risky Behaviors of Sexually Transmitted Diseases among Young People in Greece. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910022. [PMID: 34639324 PMCID: PMC8508576 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affect mainly young individuals and cause health, social, and economic problems worldwide. The present study used a web questionnaire to assess the awareness, knowledge, sexual behaviors, and common practices regarding STDs in young Greek adults. The 1833 individuals, aged 18–30 years, who responded to the study seem to be particularly knowledgeable regarding STDs such as AIDS (97.7%), warts (97%), Chlamydia (92.2%), genital herpes (89.9%), syphilis (81.9%), and gonorrhea (72.1%), whereas lower percentages were noted for trichomoniasis (39.3%), Molluscum contagiosum (12.9%), mycoplasmosis (11.6%), and amoebiasis (7.4%). Regarding oral STD transmission, participants replied correctly for genital herpes (45%), warts (35.8%), and AIDS (HIV; 33.8%), whereas 30.2% were unfamiliar with oral sexual transmission. Of the participants, 52% were not aware that STDs might cause infertility. Only 40.4% of the respondents reported always using condoms during sexual intercourse, and 48.6% had never been tested for STDs. The majority of the young population (55%) presented a moderate knowledge STD score (41–60%) and was associated with demographic parameters such as age, gender, sexual preference, number of sexual partners, and residence (p < 0.05). These findings provide important information regarding the prevention of STDs and highlight the significance of developing more effective sex education programs for young people in Greece.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysa Voyiatzaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (P.S.); (M.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2105385690
| | - Maria S. Venetikou
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Pathological Anatomy & Physiology Nutrition, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (M.S.V.); (F.A.-A.); (D.I.C.)
| | - Effie Papageorgiou
- Reliability and Quality Control in Laboratory Hematology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece;
| | - Fragiski Anthouli-Anagnostopoulou
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Pathological Anatomy & Physiology Nutrition, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (M.S.V.); (F.A.-A.); (D.I.C.)
| | - Panagiotis Simitzis
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (P.S.); (M.A.)
| | - Dimitrios I. Chaniotis
- Laboratory of Anatomy-Pathological Anatomy & Physiology Nutrition, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (M.S.V.); (F.A.-A.); (D.I.C.)
| | - Maria Adamopoulou
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece; (P.S.); (M.A.)
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Saberi P, Lisha NE, Erguera XA, Hudes ES, Johnson MO, Ruel T, Neilands TB. A Mobile Health App (WYZ) for Engagement in Care and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Youth and Young Adults Living With HIV: Single-Arm Pilot Intervention Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e26861. [PMID: 34463622 PMCID: PMC8441610 DOI: 10.2196/26861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth are globally recognized as being vulnerable to HIV. Younger age has been correlated with worse health outcomes. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have the potential to interact with youth where they are, using a device they already access. OBJECTIVE Using predefined benchmarks, we sought to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of WYZ, an mHealth app, for improved engagement in care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among youth and young adults living with HIV. WYZ was designed and developed with input from youth and young adults living with HIV using a human-centered design approach and was based on the information, motivation, and behavioral skills framework to address common barriers to care and ART adherence among youth and young adults living with HIV. METHODS We recruited youth and young adults living with HIV (18-29 years old) from the San Francisco Bay Area to take part in a 6-month pilot trial. Their participation included completing baseline and exit surveys, and participating in seven phone check-ins about their use of WYZ. RESULTS Youth and young adults living with HIV (N=79) reported high levels of feasibility and acceptability with WYZ use. We met predefined benchmarks for recruitment (79/84, 94%), mean logins per week (5.3), tracking ART adherence (5442/9393, 57.9%), posting chat topics per week (4.8), and app crashes reported per week (0.24). The ease of app download, install, and setup, and comfort with security, privacy, and anonymity were highly rated (all over 91%). Additionally, participants reported high satisfaction for a research project that was remotely conducted. Participants used the app for shorter timeframes compared to the predefined benchmark. CONCLUSIONS We noted high feasibility and acceptability with WYZ. Further research to examine the efficacy of WYZ will enable youth and young adults living with HIV and their providers to make informed decisions when using, recommending, and prescribing the app for improved engagement in HIV care and ART adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03587857; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03587857.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parya Saberi
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nadra E Lisha
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Xavier A Erguera
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Estie Sid Hudes
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Theodore Ruel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Laurenzi CA, du Toit S, Ameyan W, Melendez‐Torres GJ, Kara T, Brand A, Chideya Y, Abrahams N, Bradshaw M, Page DT, Ford N, Sam‐Agudu NA, Mark D, Vitoria M, Penazzato M, Willis N, Armstrong A, Skeen S. Psychosocial interventions for improving engagement in care and health and behavioural outcomes for adolescents and young people living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25741. [PMID: 34338417 PMCID: PMC8327356 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents and young people comprise a growing proportion of new HIV infections globally, yet current approaches do not effectively engage this group, and adolescent HIV-related outcomes are the poorest among all age groups. Providing psychosocial interventions incorporating psychological, social, and/or behavioural approaches offer a potential pathway to improve engagement in care and health and behavioural outcomes among adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV). METHODS A systematic search of all peer-reviewed papers published between January 2000 and July 2020 was conducted through four electronic databases (Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus). We included randomized controlled trials evaluating psychosocial interventions aimed at improving engagement in care and health and behavioural outcomes of AYPLHIV aged 10 to 24 years. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Thirty relevant studies were identified. Studies took place in the United States (n = 18, 60%), sub-Saharan Africa (Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe) and Southeast Asia (Thailand). Outcomes of interest included adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), ART knowledge, viral load data, sexual risk behaviours, sexual risk knowledge, retention in care and linkage to care. Overall, psychosocial interventions for AYPLHIV showed important, small-to-moderate effects on adherence to ART (SMD = 0.3907, 95% CI: 0.1059 to 0.6754, 21 studies, n = 2647) and viral load (SMD = -0.2607, 95% CI -04518 to -0.0696, 12 studies, n = 1566). The psychosocial interventions reviewed did not demonstrate significant impacts on retention in care (n = 8), sexual risk behaviours and knowledge (n = 13), viral suppression (n = 4), undetectable viral load (n = 5) or linkage to care (n = 1) among AYPLHIV. No studies measured transition to adult services. Effective interventions employed various approaches, including digital and lay health worker delivery, which hold promise for scaling interventions in the context of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the potential of psychosocial interventions in improving health outcomes in AYPLHIV. However, more research needs to be conducted on interventions that can effectively reduce sexual risk behaviours of AYPLHIV, as well as those that can strengthen engagement in care. Further investment is needed to ensure that these interventions are cost-effective, sustainable and resilient in the face of resource constraints and global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Stefani du Toit
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections ProgrammesWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - GJ Melendez‐Torres
- Peninsula Technology Assessment GroupUniversity of ExeterExeterUnited Kingdom
| | - Tashmira Kara
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Amanda Brand
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
- Division of Epidemiology and BiostatisticsDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesCentre for Evidence‐Based Health CareStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Yeukai Chideya
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Nina Abrahams
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Melissa Bradshaw
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Daniel T Page
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Nathan Ford
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections ProgrammesWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Nadia A Sam‐Agudu
- Pediatric and Adolescent UnitPrevention, Care and Treatment DepartmentInstitute of Human Virology NigeriaAbujaNigeria
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of PediatricsUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Daniella Mark
- Paediatric Adolescent Treatment AfricaCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Marco Vitoria
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections ProgrammesWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Martina Penazzato
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections ProgrammesWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | | | - Alice Armstrong
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional OfficeNairobiKenya
| | - Sarah Skeen
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
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Medina-Marino A, Bezuidenhout D, Hosek S, Barnabas RV, Atujuna M, Bezuidenhout C, Ngwepe P, Peters RPH, Little F, Celum CL, Daniels J, Bekker LG. The Community PrEP Study: a randomized control trial leveraging community-based platforms to improve access and adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV among adolescent girls and young women in South Africa-study protocol. Trials 2021; 22:489. [PMID: 34311754 PMCID: PMC8314507 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05402-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV incidence among South African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) remains high, but could be reduced by highly effective pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Unfortunately, AGYW report significant barriers to clinic-based sexual and reproductive health services. Even when AGYW access PrEP as an HIV prevention method, poor prevention-effective use was a serious barrier to achieving its optimal HIV prevention benefits. Determining the acceptability and feasibility of community-based platforms to increase AGYW's access to PrEP, and evaluating behavioural interventions to improve prevention-effective use of PrEP are needed. METHODS We propose a mixed-methods study among AGYW aged 16-25 years in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. In the first component, a cross-sectional study will assess the acceptability and feasibility of leveraging community-based HIV counselling and testing (CBCT) platforms to refer HIV-negative, at-risk AGYW to non-clinic-based, same-day PrEP initiation services. In the second component, we will enrol 480 AGYW initiating PrEP via our CBCT platforms into a three-armed (1:1:1) randomized control trial (RCT) that will evaluate the effectiveness of adherence support interventions to improve the prevention-effective use of PrEP. Adherence will be measured over 24 months via tenofovir-diphosphate blood concentration levels. Qualitative investigations will explore participant, staff, and community experiences associated with community-based PrEP services, adherence support activities, study implementation, and community awareness. Costs and scalability of service platforms and interventions will be evaluated. DISCUSSION This will be the first study to assess the acceptability and feasibility of leveraging CBCT platforms to identify and refer at-risk AGYW to community-based, same-day PrEP initiation services. It will also provide quantitative and qualitative results to inform adherence support activities and services that promote the prevention-effective use of PrEP among AGYW. By applying principles of implementation science, behavioural science, and health economics research, we aim to inform strategies to improve access to and prevention-effective use of PrEP by AGYW. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03977181 . Registered on 6 June 2019-retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Medina-Marino
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Dana Bezuidenhout
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Sybil Hosek
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ruanne V Barnabas
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charl Bezuidenhout
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Phuti Ngwepe
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Remco P H Peters
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, 10 Rochester Rd, Vincent, East London, Buffalo City Metro, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Francesca Little
- Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Connie L Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Joseph Daniels
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behaviors, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Nyabuti MN, Petersen ML, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Mwangwa F, Kabami J, Sang N, Charlebois ED, Balzer LB, Schwab JD, Camlin CS, Black D, Clark TD, Chamie G, Havlir DV, Ayieko J. Characteristics of HIV seroconverters in the setting of universal test and treat: Results from the SEARCH trial in rural Uganda and Kenya. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0243167. [PMID: 33544717 PMCID: PMC7864429 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Additional progress towards HIV epidemic control requires understanding who remains at risk of HIV infection in the context of high uptake of universal testing and treatment (UTT). We sought to characterize seroconverters and risk factors in the SEARCH UTT trial (NCT01864603), which achieved high uptake of universal HIV testing and ART coverage in 32 communities of adults (≥15 years) in rural Uganda and Kenya. Methods In a pooled cohort of 117,114 individuals with baseline HIV negative test results, we described those who seroconverted within 3 years, calculated gender-specific HIV incidence rates, evaluated adjusted risk ratios (aRR) for seroconversion using multivariable targeted maximum likelihood estimation, and assessed potential infection sources based on self-report. Results Of 704 seroconverters, 63% were women. Young (15–24 years) men comprised a larger proportion of seroconverters in Western Uganda (18%) than Eastern Uganda (6%) or Kenya (10%). After adjustment for other risk factors, men who were mobile [≥1 month of prior year living outside community] (aRR:1.68; 95%CI:1.09,2.60) or who HIV tested at home vs. health fair (aRR:2.44; 95%CI:1.89,3.23) were more likely to seroconvert. Women who were aged ≤24 years (aRR:1.91; 95%CI:1.27,2.90), mobile (aRR:1.49; 95%CI:1.04,2.11), or reported a prior HIV test (aRR:1.34; 95%CI:1.06,1.70), or alcohol use (aRR:2.07; 95%CI:1.34,3.22) were more likely to seroconvert. Among survey responders (N = 607, 86%), suspected infection source was more likely for women than men to be ≥10 years older (28% versus 8%) or a spouse (51% vs. 31%) and less likely to be transactional sex (10% versus 16%). Conclusion In the context of universal testing and treatment, additional strategies tailored to regional variability are needed to address HIV infection risks of young women, alcohol users, mobile populations, and those engaged in transactional sex to further reduce HIV incidence rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maya L. Petersen
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | | | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Mwangwa
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Norton Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Laura B. Balzer
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joshua D. Schwab
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Douglas Black
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Tamara D. Clark
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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Wilson EC, Jalil EM, Moreira RI, Velasque L, Castro CV, Monteiro L, Veloso VG, Grinsztejn B. High risk and low HIV prevention behaviours in a new generation of young trans women in Brazil. AIDS Care 2020; 33:997-1001. [PMID: 33191759 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1844859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Adult trans women in Brazil are highly impacted by HIV, but little is known about risk for young trans women. Our study was conducted to compare the HIV prevalence and correlates of risk for young trans women ages 18-24 years old to adult trans women in Brazil. Trans women were recruited from Rio de Janeiro and Baixada (the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro), Brazil (N = 345). Youth ages 18-24 years of age had significantly greater odds of being HIV negative than adults (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.6, p = 0.0002), but significantly lower odds of having post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) knowledge (OR 0.5, 95% CI:0.3-0.9, p = 0.02) and PrEP awareness (OR 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-0.8, p = 0.01). Young trans women also had significantly higher odds of using substances (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-2.9, p = 0.02) and condomless anal intercourse with their last three sexual partners (OR 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1-3.0, p = 0.03) compared to adults. Already by age 24, one in four trans women in Brazil were infected with HIV pointing to a new generation at high risk of acquiring HIV. HIV prevention interventions are needed to change the healthcare system to reach and engage young trans women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Emilia M Jalil
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo I Moreira
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luciane Velasque
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane V Castro
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Laylla Monteiro
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Valdilea G Veloso
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI), Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Risk Factors Among Young People in a Public Health Center in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2020; 33:354-362. [PMID: 32087400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted infections (STI) significantly affect the health of sexually active people, especially young people, and can cause low sexual dysfunction, low self-esteem, infertility, increased transmission of HIV, and death. METHODS We reviewed the medical records of a cross-section of users of a public health services center and verified the prevalence of STI and its associated predictors for male and female individuals 13-24 years of age in an interior county of southern Brazil. RESULTS The records of 1703 adolescents and young adults, stratified by age (13-18 and 19-24 years, respectively) and sex, admitted between April 1, 2012, and March 31, 2017, were reviewed in this retrospective study. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory data of medical records were analyzed using the chi-square test and odds ratio, with confidence interval of 95% by the Stata® 9.0 program. During the study period, a total of 3448 patients were attended to; of these, 1703 (49.39%) were 13-24 years of age, with 86.56% of those 19-24 years having at least 1 STI. The prevalence of STI among men and women, respectively, was 35.40% and 47.67% for condylomata, 8.46% and 7.00% for herpes, 26.35% and 18.80% for syphilis, and 20.06% and 6.27% for urethral discharge syndrome. The risk for STI acquisition was the highest in young adults (odds ratio [OR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-2.06, P = .002), female individuals (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.14-2.00, P = .004), those with multiple sexual partners (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.22-2.16, P < .001), and those not using or irregularly using prophylactics (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.22-2.16, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The findings revealed a significant prevalence of STI among young people in public health service. The predictors associated with STI in these patients were being female, having multiple partners in the last year, and not using or irregularly using prophylactics. These predictors confirm the necessity to implement more aggressive strategies to prevent the occurrence of STI in specific populations with higher disease risk, thereby minimizing costs and damage caused by the infections.
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Determinants of loss to follow-up among HIV positive patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in a test and treat setting: A retrospective cohort study in Masaka, Uganda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0217606. [PMID: 32255796 PMCID: PMC7138304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Retaining patients starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) and ensuring good adherence remain cornerstone of long-term viral suppression. In this era of test and treat (T&T) policy, ensuring that patients starting ART remain connected to HIV clinics is key to achieve the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. Currently, limited studies have evaluated the effect of early ART initiation on loss to follow up in a routine health care delivery setting. We studied the cumulative incidence, incidence rate of loss to follow up (LTFU), and factors associated with LTFU in a primary healthcare clinic that has practiced T&T since 2012. Methods We retrospectively analyzed extracted routine program data on patients who started ART from January 2012 to 4th July 2016. We defined LTFU as failure of a patient to return to the HIV clinic for at least 90 days from the date of their last appointment. We calculated cumulative incidence, incidence rate and fitted a multivariable Cox proportion hazards regression model to determine factors associated with LTFU. Results Of the 7,553 patients included in our sample, 3,231 (42.8%) started ART within seven days following HIV diagnosis. There were 1,180 cases of LTFU observed over 15,807.7 person years at risk. The overall incidence rate (IR) of LTFU was 7.5 (95% CI, 7.1–7.9) per 100 person years of observation (pyo). Cumulative incidence of LTFU increased with duration of follow up from 8.9% (95% CI, 8.2–9.6%) at 6 months to 20.2% (95% CI, 19.0–21.4%) at 48 months. Predictors of elevated risk of LTFU were: starting ART within 7 days following HIV diagnosis ((aHR) = 1.69, 95% CI, 1.50–1.91), lack of a telephone set (aHR = 1.52, 95% CI, 1.35–1.71), CD4 cell count of 200–350μ/ml (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI, 1.01–1.45) and baseline WHO clinical stage 3 or 4 (aHR = 1.35, 95% CI, 1.10–1.65). Factors associated with a reduced risk of LTFU were: baseline age ≥25 years (aHR ranging from 0.62, 95% CI, 0.47–0.81 for age group 25–29 years to 0.24, 95% CI, 0.13–0.44 for age group ≥50 years), at least primary education level (aHR ranging from aHR = 0.77, 95% CI, 0.62–0.94 for primary education level to 0.50, 95% CI, 0.34–0.75 for post-secondary education level), and having a BMI ≥ 30 (aHR = 0.28, 95% CI, 0.15–0.51). Conclusion The risk of loss to follow up increased with time and was higher among patients who started ART within seven days following HIV diagnosis, higher among patients without a telephone set, lower among patients aged ≥ 25 years, lower among patients with at least primary education and lower among patients with BMI of ≥ 30. In this era of T&T, it will be important for HIV programs to initiate and continue enhanced therapeutic education programs that target high risk groups, as well as leveraging on mHealth to improve patients’ retention on ART throughout the cascade of care.
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27
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Efobi CC, Azuike EC, Nwankwo BE, Chidolue UN, Okoye HC. The Perception of People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome toward Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: A Single-Center Experience. Niger Med J 2020; 61:84-89. [PMID: 32675900 PMCID: PMC7357804 DOI: 10.4103/nmj.nmj_90_19] [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: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The prevention and control of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection depend on the prevention of new infections as well as treating currently infected individuals. Adequate knowledge of HIV infection among person living with HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (PLWHA) may be an important tool in reducing spread of the virus. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate knowledge and attitude of PLWHA on HIV infection. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital. Knowledge of infection, spread, control, and effect was sought from HIV-positive respondents using a structured questionnaire. Information about their attitude and beliefs was also obtained. Collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences for Windows, Version 21.0. Results: A total of 70 HIV-positive patients, including 23 (32.9%) males and 47 (67.1%) females with a mean age of 37.7 years were participated. The overall knowledge on HIV transmission, clinical effects, complications, and controls was good in 15.7%, average in 72.9%, and poor in 11.4%. Knowledge of means of transmission was appropriate in majority of them. Majority of 66 (94.3%) patients showed a positive attitude to life. Conclusion: Most of the HIV-positive patients had average knowledge on HIV, and majority had a positive attitude to life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chilota Chibuife Efobi
- Department of Haematology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Àwka Campus, Anambra, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel Chukwunonye Azuike
- Department of Community Medicine, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Anambra, Nigeria
| | - Basil Elochukwu Nwankwo
- Department of ENT, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Anambra, Nigeria
| | - Uzoma Nnenna Chidolue
- Department of Community Medicine, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Anambra, Nigeria
| | - Helen Chioma Okoye
- Department of Haematology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Enugu, Nigeria
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van Wyk BE, Davids LAC. Challenges to HIV treatment adherence amongst adolescents in a low socio-economic setting in Cape Town. South Afr J HIV Med 2019; 20:1002. [PMID: 31745433 PMCID: PMC6852420 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v20i1.1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the successful rollout of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and steep declines in HIV incidence in South Africa, this has not been the case for adolescents (10-19 years). Adolescents on HIV treatment have lower rates of viral load suppression and adherence compared to adults and children. Objectives This article reports on the adherence challenges faced by adolescents receiving ART in a primary health care clinic in a low socio-economic urban setting in Cape Town. Method An exploratory qualitative design was employed where data were collected through four focus group discussions with adolescents (n = 15) who received ART at a primary health care clinic in a low socio-economic urban setting in Cape Town and followed up with eight individual, semi-structured interviews with two adolescents from each focus group. Two key informant interviews were conducted with health workers at the clinic. Audio data were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using content analysis. Results School commitments, strained teacher-learner relationships, negative household dynamics and ill treatment by non-biological caregivers were reported as major barriers to adherence. In addition, poor service delivery, missing or misplaced files and long waiting times came under major criticism. Fear of unintended disclosure of HIV status, stigma and discrimination, treatment fatigue and having unstructured lives negatively influenced adherence. Having a strong social support system and having life goals and ambitions were motivators to remain adherent. Conclusion This study highlighted the complexity of ART adherence in the midst of juggling school, home life and personal life goals and aspirations. Interventions to improve adherence should address psychosocial factors such as treatment fatigue, disclosure and family and household dynamics, in addition to streamlining service delivery between the school and clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E van Wyk
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lee-Ann C Davids
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Mensch BS, Grant MJ, Soler-Hampejsek E, Kelly CA, Chalasani S, Hewett PC. Does schooling protect sexual health? The association between three measures of education and STIs among adolescents in Malawi. POPULATION STUDIES 2019; 74:241-261. [PMID: 31619138 PMCID: PMC7162723 DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2019.1656282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
While multiple studies have documented shifting educational gradients in HIV prevalence, less attention has been given to the effect of school participation and academic skills on infection during adolescence. Using the Malawi Schooling and Adolescent Study, a longitudinal survey that followed 2,649 young people aged 14-17 at baseline from 2007 to 2013, we estimate the effect of three education variables: school enrolment, grade attainment, and academic skills-numeracy and Chichewa literacy-on herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and HIV incidence using interval-censored survival analysis. We find that grade attainment is significantly associated with lower rates of both HSV-2 and HIV among girls, and is negatively associated with HSV-2 but not HIV among boys. School enrolment and academic skills are not significantly associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for boys or girls in our final models. Efforts to encourage school progression in high-prevalence settings in sub-Saharan Africa could well reduce, or at least postpone, acquisition of STIs.
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Sandy PT, Vhembo T, Molotsi TK. Sexual behaviour among adolescents living with the human immunodeficiency virus in Zimbabwe: educational implications. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2019; 18:130-137. [PMID: 31282303 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2019.1621910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of HIV infection is increasing among adolescents in Zimbabwe. This rise in incidence is partly due to risky sexual behaviours yet there are no published research studies on sexual behaviours of HIV-positive adolescents in Zimbabwe. Hence, this study, which examined the sexual behaviours of HIV-positive adolescents. This study utilised a cross-sectional design with a conveniently selected sample of 341 HIV-positive adolescents. Data were collected through a questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytical statistics. The study revealed that approximately 37 (11%) of the adolescents had engaged in sexual intercourse, and approximately 14 (60%) of these did not use condoms. Approximately 11 (30%) of the sexually active adolescents had multiple sexual partners, and only 9 (24.3%) of them had disclosed their HIV serostatus to their partners before sexual intercourse. A bivariate analysis revealed factors that were associated with being sexually activity. Examples of these include age (OR = 1.56, p < 0.001) and being treated by a psychiatrist (OR = 47.9, p < 0.001). A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out, revealing factors that were independently associated with being sexually active. Examples of these include age (AOR = 1.91, p < 0.01) and exposure to erotic television programmes (AOR = 3.9, p < 0.04). The results of the study indicate that the sexual risk behaviours of HIV-positive adolescents contributes to the increase in incidence and prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe. The development and rolling out of a health education programme will help health care workers to address this concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Sandy
- a Health Studies , University of South Africa , Pretoria , South Africa
| | - Tichaona Vhembo
- a Health Studies , University of South Africa , Pretoria , South Africa
| | - Tebogo K Molotsi
- a Health Studies , University of South Africa , Pretoria , South Africa
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young female sex workers (FSWs) are at greater HIV risk than their older counterparts. Yet, the extent of their engagement with HIV services is largely unknown. We compared engagement among FSWs aged 18-24 years with those 25 years and older. METHODS We used respondent-driven sampling to recruit FSWs from 14 communities in Zimbabwe from November to December 2013. We collected data on demographics, behavior, service uptake, and HIV and viral load testing. Data were pooled and weighted using respondent-driven sampling-2 estimation. We analyzed HIV care cascade variables by age group. To identify potential drivers of younger FSW service use, we explored factors associated with knowing one's HIV status. RESULTS Among 2617 participants, mean age was 31 years and 26% were 18-24 years. Over half of FSWs initiated sex work before the age of 25 years. Overall HIV prevalence was 59% but was lower among younger FSWs (35% vs 67%, P < 0.01). Younger HIV-infected FSWs were significantly less engaged at each step of the care cascade. Among younger FSWs reporting antiretroviral therapy use, 62% had an undetectable viral load compared with 79% in older FSWs. In multivariable regression, young FSWs encouraged to have an HIV test by another FSW (adjusted odds ratio = 2.54; 95% confidence interval: 1.44 to 4.50), and those with no recent clients (adjusted odds ratio = 4.31; 95% confidence interval: 1.30 to 14.33) were more likely to report knowing their status. CONCLUSIONS The high proportion of FSWs initiating sex work before the age of 25 years and their lower engagement in HIV services highlights the importance of considering this vulnerable population in HIV programming. Implementing targeted services tailored to the unique needs of young FSWs is a public health imperative.
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32
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Nemes MIB, Castanheira ERL, Alves AM, Adania CSS, Loch AP, Monroe AA, Souza RA, Gianna MC, Caminada S, Farias NSDO, Sousa PDOE, Domingues CSB, Silva MHD, Cervantes V, Yamashiro J, Caraciolo JMDM, Silva FLD, Nemes Filho A, Jesus GLD, Helena ETDS, Albiero JFG, Lima MSS, Bellenzani R, Kehrig RT, Vale FCD, Nunes LO, Mendonça CS, Zarili TFT, Vilela MC, Dantas JCDO, Paula ID, Tayra Â, Coelho DM, Santos GPD, Quevedo DC, Silva MAD, Silva IBD, Nasser MA, Andrade MC, Santos MA, Mercuri J, Trindade KV, Neves MATD, Toledo RVAD, Almeida MCRD, Lima IN. The QualiRede intervention: improving the performance of care continuum in HIV, congenital syphilis, and hepatitis C in health regions. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2019; 22Suppl 1:e190010. [PMID: 31576986 DOI: 10.1590/1980-549720190010.supl.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Care continuum models have supported recent strategies against sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV and Hepatitis C (HCV). METHODS HIV, HCV, and congenital syphilis care continuum models were developed, including all stages of care, from promotion/prevention to clinical control/cure. The models supported the intervention QualiRede, developed by a University-Brazilian National Health System (SUS) partnership focused on managers and other professionals from six priority health regions in São Paulo and Santa Catarina. Indicators were selected for each stage of the care continuum from the SUS information systems and from the Qualiaids and QualiAB facility's process evaluation questionnaires. The indicators acted as the technical basis of two workshops with professionals and managers in each region: the first one to identify problems and to create a Regional Technical Group; and the second one to design action plans for improving regional performance. RESULTS The indicators are available at www.qualirede.org. The workshops took place in the regions of Alto Tietê, Baixada Santista, Grande ABC, and Registro (São Paulo) and of Foz do Rio Itajaí (Santa Catarina), which resulted in regional action plans in São Paulo, but not in Santa Catarina. A lack of awareness was observed regarding the new HIV and HCV protocols, as well as an incipient use of indicators in routine practices. CONCLUSION Improving the performance of the care continuum requires appropriation of performance indicators and coordination of care flows at local, regional, and state levels of management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana Maroso Alves
- School of Medicine, University of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | - Ana Paula Loch
- School of Medicine, University of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Aline Aparecida Monroe
- School of Nursing of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo - Ribeirão Preto (SP), Brazil
| | - Rosa Alencar Souza
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Maria Clara Gianna
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Sirlene Caminada
- State Program of Viral Hepatitis, Epidemiological Surveillance Center, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Norma Suely de Oliveira Farias
- State Program of Viral Hepatitis, Epidemiological Surveillance Center, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Paula de Oliveira E Sousa
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Carmen Silva Bruniera Domingues
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Mariliza Henrique da Silva
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Vilma Cervantes
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Juliana Yamashiro
- State Program of Viral Hepatitis, Epidemiological Surveillance Center, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Luceime Olivia Nunes
- School of Medicine of Botucatu, São Paulo State University - Botucatu (SP), Brazil
| | | | | | - Mara Cristina Vilela
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Jean Carlos de Oliveira Dantas
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Ivone de Paula
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Ângela Tayra
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Débora Moraes Coelho
- State Program of Viral Hepatitis, Epidemiological Surveillance Center, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | - Dulce Castro Quevedo
- Epidemiological Surveillance Board, State Secretariat of Health of Santa Catarina - Florianópolis (SC), Brazil
| | - Marcia Aparecida da Silva
- Epidemiological Surveillance Board, State Secretariat of Health of Santa Catarina - Florianópolis (SC), Brazil
| | - Iraci Batista da Silva
- Coordination of Primary Health Care, State Secretariat of Health of Santa Catarina - Florianópolis (SC), Brazil
| | - Mariana Arantes Nasser
- Department of Preventive Medicine, São Paulo School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | | | - Juliana Mercuri
- School of Medicine, University of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Katia Valeska Trindade
- State Program of STD/AIDS, Center for Referral and Training in STD/AIDS, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Iraty Nunes Lima
- Epidemiological Surveillance Center, State Secretariat of Health of São Paulo - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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Enane LA, Apondi E, Toromo J, Bosma C, Ngeresa A, Nyandiko W, Vreeman RC. "A problem shared is half solved" - a qualitative assessment of barriers and facilitators to adolescent retention in HIV care in western Kenya. AIDS Care 2019; 32:104-112. [PMID: 31554414 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1668530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10-19) are retained in care at low rates, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. We investigated barriers and facilitators to retention experienced by perinatally infected ALHIV in western Kenya. This qualitative study purposefully sampled hospitalized ALHIV (engaged and not currently engaged in care), ALHIV engaged in outpatient care, and caregivers of ALHIV. In total, 116 ALHIV and caregivers participated in interviews or focus group discussions. Challenges related to the effects of both stigma and poverty at multiple socio-ecological levels pose the greatest barriers to adolescent retention in HIV care. Adolescents with positive relationships with family, clinic, and/or peers with the resources to support their care are facilitated to overcome these barriers. Conversely, adolescents with few of these supports due to orphanhood, caregiver illness, severe poverty, family conflicts, negative relationships with healthcare workers, or isolation, have the greatest challenges staying in care, and maybe at risk of disengagement. Experiences of trauma emerged from narratives of disengagement, and contribute to isolation, mental health challenges, and difficulties engaging in care. Retention of the most vulnerable adolescents will require interventions to mitigate the impacts of stigma, poverty, mental health issues, and limited social support on HIV care engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Judith Toromo
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Antony Ngeresa
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Winstone Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.,Academic Model Providing Access To Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Health System Design and Global Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Smith P, Tolla T, Marcus R, Bekker LG. Mobile sexual health services for adolescents: investigating the acceptability of youth-directed mobile clinic services in Cape Town, South Africa. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:584. [PMID: 31426788 PMCID: PMC6701080 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4423-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) epidemic is growing rapidly among South African adolescents and young adults (AYA). Although HIV counselling and testing, HIV prevention and treatment options are widely available, many AYA delay health-seeking until illness occurs, demonstrating a need for youth responsive, integrated sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS). While feasibility and cost-effectiveness have been evaluated, acceptability of mobile clinics among AYA has yet to be established. The objective of this study was to investigate patient acceptability of mobile AYA SRHS and compare mobile clinic usage and HIV outcomes with nearby conventional clinics. METHODS Patients presenting to a mobile clinic in Cape Town were invited to participate in an acceptability study of a mobile clinic after using the service. A trained researcher administered an acceptability questionnaire. Mobile clinic medical records during the study period were compared with the records of AYA attending four clinics in the same community. RESULTS Three hundred three enrolled participants (16-24 years, 246 (81.2%) female) rated mobile AYA SRHS acceptability highly (median = 4,6 out of 5), with 90% rating their experience as better or much better than conventional clinics. The mobile clinic, compared to conventional clinics, attracted more men (26% v 13%, p < 0,000), younger patients (18 v 19 years, p < 0,000), and yielded more HIV diagnoses (4% v 2%, p < 0,000). CONCLUSIONS Given the high ratings of acceptability, and the preference for mobile clinics over conventional primary health clinics, the scalability of mobile clinics should be investigated as part of a multipronged approach to improve the uptake of SRHS diagnostic, prevention and treatment options for AYA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Smith
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.
| | - Tsidiso Tolla
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Rebecca Marcus
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute for Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
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Ashaba S, Cooper-Vince CE, Vořechovská D, Rukundo GZ, Maling S, Akena D, Tsai AC. Community beliefs, HIV stigma, and depression among adolescents living with HIV in rural Uganda. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2019; 18:169-180. [PMID: 31339461 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2019.1637912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The availability of and increased access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with HIV. As a result, perinatally infected youth are increasingly able to reach adolescence. There is limited information about the psychosocial challenges facing adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) in rural settings of sub-Saharan Africa. We sought to understand psychosocial challenges facing ALWH in rural Uganda and their effects on mental health and HIV treatment outcomes. We conducted 5 focus group discussions and 40 one-on-one in-depth interviews in Mbarara, Uganda with adolescents (aged 13-17 years) and adult women caregivers. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed directly into English, and coded using thematic analysis to identify themes related to psychosocial adversities and mental health. Adversities faced by adolescents included negative community perceptions (perceived aggression, presumed early mortality), HIV stigma (enacted and internalized), vulnerability factors (loss of parents, poverty), and health challenges (depression, ART non-adherence). In the conceptual model that emerged from the findings, negative community perceptions (about perceived aggression or presumed early mortality) predisposed ALWH to experience enactments and internalization of stigma that led to depression and ART non-adherence. The data also identified several protective factors, including counselling, family and religious support, and timely serostatus disclosure. Interventions to correct community misperceptions about HIV can potentially reduce stigma and thereby improve physical and mental health outcomes of ALWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scholastic Ashaba
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara Uganda
| | | | | | - Godfrey Zari Rukundo
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara Uganda
| | - Samuel Maling
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara Uganda
| | - Dickens Akena
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere College of Health Sciences , Makerere , Uganda
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University of Science and Technology , Mbarara Uganda.,Massachusetts General Hospital , Boston , MA , USA.,Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
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36
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Chakalisa U, Wirth K, Bennett K, Kadima E, Manyake K, Gaolathe T, Bachanas P, Marukutira T, Lebelonyane R, Dryden-Peterson S, Butler L, Mmalane M, Makhema J, Roland ME, Pretorius-Holme M, Essex M, Lockman S, Powis KM. Self-reported risky sexual practices among adolescents and young adults in Botswana. South Afr J HIV Med 2019; 20:899. [PMID: 31308965 PMCID: PMC6620511 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v20i1.899] [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: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents and young adults account for more than one-third of incident Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections globally. Understanding sexual practices of this high-risk group is critical in designing HIV targeted prevention programming. Objectives To describe self-reported risky sexual practices of adolescents and young adults aged 16–24 years from 30 Botswana communities. Methods Cross-sectional, self-reported age at sexual debut; number of sexual partners; condom and alcohol use during sex; intergenerational sex; and transactional sex data were collected. Modified Poisson estimating equations were used to obtain univariate and multivariate-adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) comparing engagement in different sexual practices according to gender, accounting for the clustered design of the study. Results Among the 3380 participants, 2311 reported being sexually active with more females reporting being sexually active compared to males (65% vs. 35%, respectively; p < 0.0001). In univariate analyses, female participants were more likely to report inconsistent condom use (PR 1.61; 95% CI 1.44–1.80), intergenerational sex (PR 9.00; 95% CI 5.84–13.88) and transactional sex (PR 3.46; 95% CI 2.07–5.77) than males, yet less likely to report engaging in sex before age 15 years (PR 0.59; 95% CI: 0.41–0.85), using alcohol around the time of intercourse (PR: 0.59; 95% CI 0.45–0.76) or having ≥ two partners in the last 12 months (PR 0.65; 95% CI 0.57–0.74). Conclusions Self-reported risky sexual practices of adolescents and young adults in Botswana differed significantly between males and females. Gender-specific risky sexual practices highlight the importance of developing tailored HIV prevention programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Unoda Chakalisa
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kathleen Wirth
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, United States
| | - Kara Bennett
- Bennett Statistical Consulting, Ballston Lake, United States
| | - Etienne Kadima
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Kutlo Manyake
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Pam Bachanas
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Global HIV/AIDS and TB, Atlanta, United States
| | | | | | | | - Lisa Butler
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, United States
| | - Mompati Mmalane
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Joseph Makhema
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | | | - Max Essex
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, United States
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Saberi P, Dawson Rose C, Wootton AR, Ming K, Legnitto D, Jeske M, Pollack LM, Johnson MO, Gruber VA, Neilands TB. Use of technology for delivery of mental health and substance use services to youth living with HIV: a mixed-methods perspective. AIDS Care 2019; 32:931-939. [PMID: 31132864 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1622637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Disparities in HIV treatment outcomes among youth living with HIV (YLWH) present a challenge for ending the HIV epidemic. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence can be impacted by comorbidities such as mental health and substance use. Technology use has shown promise in increasing access to mental health and substance use services. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted formative research to describe the relationship between mental health, substance use, and medication adherence in 18-29 year-old YLWH, and explored technology use as an approach to supporting these services. Among 101 YLWH, ART adherence was significantly negatively associated with mental health measures such as depression, trauma, and adverse childhood experiences and marijuana and stimulants use. Depression had the highest level of relative importance in its association with ART adherence. During in-depth interviews with 29 participants, barriers to and facilitators of accessing and maintaining mental health services were identified. Most participants favored technology use for mental health and substance use service delivery, including videoconferencing with a counselor. Provision of ongoing mental health and substance use treatment is an important mechanism to achieving HIV treatment engagement. Technology, particularly videoconferencing, may have the capacity to overcome many barriers to care by increasing accessibility of these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parya Saberi
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Carol Dawson Rose
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Angie R Wootton
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kristin Ming
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Dominique Legnitto
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Melanie Jeske
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lance M Pollack
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Valerie A Gruber
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Bekker LG. HIV control in young key populations in Africa. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2019; 3:442-444. [PMID: 31105054 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(19)30112-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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39
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Erguera XA, Johnson MO, Neilands TB, Ruel T, Berrean B, Thomas S, Saberi P. WYZ: a pilot study protocol for designing and developing a mobile health application for engagement in HIV care and medication adherence in youth and young adults living with HIV. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e030473. [PMID: 31061063 PMCID: PMC6501960 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-030473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Youth and young adults bear a disproportionate share of the HIV burden and there is a critical need for interventions to curb health disparities experienced among these age groups. The purpose of our research is to build on our theory-guided model and formative research to develop a mobile health application, called WYZ, for improved engagement in HIV care and antiretroviral therapy adherence, and pilot test it among youth and young adults living with HIV (YLWH). In this paper, we explain the design and development of WYZ for YLWH, describe the design of a forthcoming pilot trial for evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of WYZ and compare WYZ with other mobile health applications being developed to improve engagement in HIV care and antiretroviral medication adherence. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We used an agile methodology, shown to be useful in software development, and elicited feedback during beta testing to develop WYZ. WYZ is a modular, adaptive and personalised intervention delivered via a mobile phone. It is grounded in the information, motivation, behaviouralskills model which has been valuable for understanding and guiding the development of interventions for complex health behaviours. WYZ was created in collaboration with YLWH aged 18-29 years using a human-centred design approach that emphasises understanding the perspective of the users of the technology. WYZ is intended to improve engagement in HIV care by: (1) enhancing medication adherence self-efficacy, (2) increasing awareness and use of community resources, (3) reducing barriers to communication between youth and their healthcare team, and (4) providing a secure platform for the formation of a private online community of YLWH. We will conduct a 6-month single-arm pilot study to examine feasibility and acceptability of WYZ among 76 YLWH who live or receive care in the San Francisco Bay Area. All study activities, including recruitment, screening, enrolment, study assessments, provision of incentives and exit interviews, will be conducted remotely. We will explore feasibility and acceptability outcomes of the intervention using quantitative and qualitative methods. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Study staff will obtain written consent for study participation from all participants. This study and its protocols have been approved by the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Institutional Review Board. Study staff will work with the UCSF Center for AIDS Prevention Studies' Community Engagement Core and the Youth Advisory Panel to disseminate results to the participants and the community using presentations, community forums, journal publications and/or social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03587857; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier A. Erguera
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mallory O. Johnson
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Theodore Ruel
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Beth Berrean
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sean Thomas
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Parya Saberi
- Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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The global epidemiology of adolescents living with HIV: time for more granular data to improve adolescent health outcomes. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2019; 13:170-178. [PMID: 29432227 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim of this study was to summarize recent evidence on the global epidemiology of adolescents (age 10-19 years) living with HIV (ALHIV), the burden of HIV on the health of adolescents and HIV-associated mortality. RECENT FINDINGS In 2016, there were an estimated 2.1 million (uncertainty bound 1.4-2.7 million) ALHIV; 770 000 younger (age 10-14 years) and 1.03 million older (age 15-19 years) ALHIV, 84% living in sub-Saharan Africa. The population of ALHIV is increasing, as more peri/postnatally infected ALHIV survive into older ages; an estimated 35% of older female ALHIV were peri/postnatally infected, compared with 57% of older male ALHIV. Although the numbers of younger ALHIV deaths are declining, deaths among older ALHIV have remained static since peaking in 2012. In 2015, HIV-associated mortality was the eighth leading cause of adolescent death globally and the fourth leading cause in African low and middle-income countries. SUMMARY Needed investments into characterizing and improving adolescent HIV-related health outcomes include strengthening systems for nationally and globally disaggregated data by age, sex and mode of infection; collecting more granular data within routine programmes to identify structural, social and mental health challenges to accessing testing and care; and prioritizing viral load monitoring and adolescent-focused differentiated models of care.
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Phillips G, Neray B, Janulis P, Felt D, Mustanski B, Birkett M. Utilization and avoidance of sexual health services and providers by YMSM and transgender youth assigned male at birth in Chicago. AIDS Care 2019; 31:1282-1289. [PMID: 30821480 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1587370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and transgender youth assigned male at birth (AMAB) bear a disproportionate burden of the HIV epidemic, yet are sub optimally engaged by sexual health service providers and HIV prevention services. To increase sexual health and HIV prevention behaviors and address disparities in HIV incidence and outcomes among YMSM and AMAB transgender youth, it is critical to understand patterns of service utilization and avoidance. This study examined how and why YMSM and AMAB transgender youth use or avoid sexual health services and service providers in a large Midwestern city within a survey administered to 890 participants from a longitudinal cohort study (RADAR). Results demonstrate low overall use of sexual health services and minimal interest in seeking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), consistent with prior research. Low awareness of available services was associated with how and where YMSM and trans youth AMAB seek care, with 76% of our sample reporting this as their primary reason for not seeking specific sexual health services. Additional associations are discussed, and recommendations are made for how to improve available services and access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Phillips
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Balint Neray
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Patrick Janulis
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Dylan Felt
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Michelle Birkett
- a Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine , Chicago , IL , USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this paper is to review recent data on biomedical, behavioral, and structural HIV prevention interventions for adolescents and young adults. RECENT FINDINGS While it is accepted that HIV prevention interventions must take an integrated approach to achieve maximum effectiveness, to date, there have been limited, rigorously evaluated combination prevention interventions for adolescents. There are currently a range of effective biomedical, behavioral, and structural approaches that can be integrated into prevention packages to address the prevention needs of adolescents, including oral PrEP, male circumcision, rapid HIV testing, numerous behavioral interventions, and structural interventions such as cash transfers and community mobilization to address gender-based violence. There is still a need for rigorously evaluated, innovative combination prevention packages for adolescents. Prevention approaches must take into account the context of young people's lives and address the multiple levels of influence on their lives including parents, partners, and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybil Hosek
- Department of Psychiatry, John Stroger Hospital of Cook County, 1900 W. Polk Street, Ste. 854, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Singkorn O, Apidechkul T, Putsa B, Detpetukyon S, Sunsern R, Thutsanti P, Tamornpark R, Upala P, Inta C. Factor associated with alcohol use among Lahu and Akha hill tribe youths, northern Thailand. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2019; 14:5. [PMID: 30678692 PMCID: PMC6346547 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-019-0193-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use impacts several dimensions, including physical health, mental health, families, and social interactions. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and to determine the factors associated with alcohol use among Akha and Lahu hill tribe youths in Chiang Rai, Thailand. METHODS An analytic cross-sectional design was applied to obtain key data on these associations. The study sample was Akha and Lahu hill tribe youths aged 15-24 years who lived in 30 selected hill tribe villages. A questionnaire was developed from an in-depth interview and group discussion and tested for validation and reliability before use. Descriptive statistics were used to demonstrate the general characteristics, and Chi-square test and logistic regression were used to detect associations between variables at α=0.05. RESULTS A total of 737 subjects were recruited into the study, of whom 50.0% were Lahu. The average age was 17.9 years, 80.7% were single, 71.1% were Christian, 65.9% graduated secondary school, and 65.7% had their major source of income from their parents. Overall, 17.3% smoked and 45.0% drank alcohol. Among the drinkers, 79.8% drank beer, 61.5% started drinking at an age of 15-19 years, 86.8% had drank for < 5 years, 42.5% were persuaded to drink by their peers, 20.2% suffered an accident after alcohol use, and 17.2% had experienced unsafe sex after drinking alcohol. In the multiple logistic regression, six variables were associated with alcohol use among the Akha and Lahu youths. Males had greater odds of alcohol use than females (ORadj = 3.50, 95% CI = 2.24-5.47). Buddhists had greater odds of alcohol use than Christians (ORadj = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.17-3.04). Participants who were unemployed, employed, and in other categories of occupation had greater odds of alcohol use than those who were students (ORadj = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.23-3.92; ORadj = 6.89, 95% CI = 3.38-13.89; and ORadj = 2.96, 95% CI = 1.01-8.59, respectively). Participants whose fathers were daily wage workers had greater odds of alcohol use (ORadj = 2.89; 95% CI = 1.23-6.79) than those whose parents worked in agriculture, and those whose fathers used alcohol had greater odds of alcohol use than those whose fathers did not use alcohol (ORadj = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.40-3.35). Finally, those who had 6-10 and ≥ 11 close friends living in the same village who used alcohol had greater odds of alcohol use (ORadj = 8.51, 95% CI = 3.10-23.3; and ORadj = 3.84, 95% CI = 1.15-12.77, respectively). CONCLUSION To reduce the initiation of alcohol use among Akha and Lahu youths, public health intervention programs should focus on males who are not attending school and should be implemented for both their family members and peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onnalin Singkorn
- School of Nursing, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand.,Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
| | - Tawatchai Apidechkul
- School of Health Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand. .,Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand.
| | - Bukhari Putsa
- School of Health Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | | | - Rachanee Sunsern
- School of Health Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Phitnaree Thutsanti
- Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
| | - Ratipark Tamornpark
- Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
| | - Panupong Upala
- Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
| | - Chadaporn Inta
- Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand
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Schaefer R, Gregson S, Fearon E, Hensen B, Hallett TB, Hargreaves JR. HIV prevention cascades: A unifying framework to replicate the successes of treatment cascades. Lancet HIV 2019; 6:e60-e66. [PMID: 32066995 PMCID: PMC7025885 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(18)30327-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Many countries are off track to meet targets for reducing new HIV infections. HIV prevention cascades have been proposed to assist in the implementation and monitoring of HIV prevention programmes by identifying gaps in the steps required for effective use of prevention methods, similar to HIV treatment cascades. However, lack of a unifying framework impedes widespread use of prevention cascades. Building on a series of consultations, we propose an HIV prevention cascade consisting of three key domains of motivation, access, and effective use in a priority population. This three-step cascade can be used for routine monitoring and advocacy, particularly by attaching 90-90-90-style targets. Further characterisation of reasons for gaps across motivation, access, or effective use allows for a comprehensive framework, guiding identification of relevant responses and platforms for interventions. Linking the prevention cascade, reasons for gaps, and interventions reconciles the different requirements of prevention cascades, providing a unifying framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Schaefer
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, United Kingdom (R Schaefer MPH, Prof S Gregson DPhil, Prof TB Hallett PhD)
| | - Simon Gregson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, United Kingdom (R Schaefer MPH, Prof S Gregson DPhil, Prof TB Hallett PhD),Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe (Prof S Gregson DPhil)
| | - Elizabeth Fearon
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom (E Fearon PhD, Prof JR Hargreaves PhD)
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom (B Hensen PhD)
| | - Timothy B. Hallett
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, United Kingdom (R Schaefer MPH, Prof S Gregson DPhil, Prof TB Hallett PhD)
| | - James R. Hargreaves
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom (E Fearon PhD, Prof JR Hargreaves PhD),Centre for Evaluation, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom (Prof JR Hargreaves PhD)
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Rubincam C, Newman PA, Atujuna M, Bekker LG. 'Why would you promote something that is less percent safer than a condom?': Perspectives on partially effective HIV prevention technologies among key populations in South Africa. SAHARA J 2018; 15:179-186. [PMID: 30360675 PMCID: PMC6211311 DOI: 10.1080/17290376.2018.1536561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
New biomedical prevention technologies (NPTs) for HIV, including oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, and vaginal and rectal microbicides and HIV vaccines in development, may contribute substantially to controlling the HIV epidemic. However, their effectiveness is contingent on product acceptability and adherence. We explored perceptions and understanding of partially effective NPTs with key populations in South African townships. From October 2013 to February 2014, we conducted six focus groups and 18 individual interviews with Xhosa-speaking adolescents (n = 14), adult men who have sex with men (MSM) (n = 15), and adult heterosexual men (n = 9) and women (n = 10), and eight key informant (KI) interviews with healthcare workers. Interviews/focus groups were transcribed and reviewed using a thematic approach and framework analysis. Overall, participants and KIs indicated scepticism about NPTs that were not 100% efficacious. Some participants equated not being 100% effective with not being completely safe, and thus not appropriate for dissemination. KIs expressed concerns that promoting partially effective NPTs would encourage substitution of a more effective with a less effective method or encourage risk compensation. Educational and social marketing interventions that address the benefits and appropriate use of partially effective NPTs, including education and support tailored for frontline service providers, are needed to prepare for successful NPT implementation in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Rubincam
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter A. Newman
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Millicent Atujuna
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Institute of Infectious Disease, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, Institute of Infectious Disease, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Enane LA, Davies MA, Leroy V, Edmonds A, Apondi E, Adedimeji A, Vreeman RC. Traversing the cascade: urgent research priorities for implementing the 'treat all' strategy for children and adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. J Virus Erad 2018; 4:40-46. [PMID: 30515313 PMCID: PMC6248846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Children and adolescents living with HIV (CALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa experience significant morbidity and alarmingly high mortality rates due to critical gaps in the HIV care cascade, including late diagnosis and initiation of treatment, as well as poor retention in care and adherence to treatment. Interventions to strengthen the adult HIV care cascade may not be as effective in improving the cascade for CALHIV, for whom specific strategies are needed. Particular attention needs to be paid to the contexts of sub-Saharan Africa, where more than 85% of the world's CALHIV live. Implementing the 'treat all' strategy in sub-Saharan Africa requires dedicated efforts to address the unique diagnosis and care needs of CALHIV, in order to improve paediatric and adolescent outcomes, prevent viral resistance and reduce the number of new HIV infections. We consider the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets from the perspective of infants, children and adolescents, and discuss the key challenges, knowledge gaps and urgent research priorities for CALHIV in implementation of the 'treat all' strategy in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN,
USA,Corresponding author:
Leslie Enane, 1044 W Walnut Street, Room 402A,
Indianapolis,
Indiana,
46202,
USA
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town,
South Africa
| | - Valériane Leroy
- Inserm (French Institute of Health and Medical Research), UMR 1027, Université Toulouse 3,
France
| | - Andrew Edmonds
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,
NC,
USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital,
Eldoret,
Kenya
| | - Adebola Adedimeji
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine,
Bronx, NY,
USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, IN,
USA
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Enane LA, Davies MA, Leroy V, Edmonds A, Apondi E, Adedimeji A, Vreeman RC. Traversing the cascade: urgent research priorities for implementing the ‘treat all’ strategy for children and adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. J Virus Erad 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30344-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Kaida A, Dietrich JJ, Laher F, Beksinska M, Jaggernath M, Bardsley M, Smith P, Cotton L, Chitneni P, Closson K, Lewis DA, Smit JA, Ndung’u T, Brockman M, Gray G. A high burden of asymptomatic genital tract infections undermines the syndromic management approach among adolescents and young adults in South Africa: implications for HIV prevention efforts. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:499. [PMID: 30285705 PMCID: PMC6171143 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth in southern Africa, particularly adolescent girls and young women, are a key population for HIV prevention interventions. Untreated genital tract infections (GTIs) increase both HIV transmission and acquisition risks. South African GTI treatment guidelines employ syndromic management, which relies on individuals to report GTI signs and symptoms. Syndromic management may, however, underestimate cases, particularly among youth. We compared genital tract infection (GTI) prevalence by symptom-based and laboratory assessment among sexually-experienced youth in South Africa, overall and stratified by sex. METHODS Interviewer-administered surveys assessed socio-demographics, behaviors, and GTI symptoms among 352 youth (16-24 yrs., HIV-negative or unknown HIV status at enrollment) enrolled in community-based cohorts in Durban and Soweto (2014-2016). Laboratory tests assessed HIV, Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) infections and, among females, bacterial vaginosis (BV) and Candida species. Youth with genital ulcers were tested for HSV-2 and syphilis. We assessed sensitivity (and specificity) of symptom-based reporting in identifying laboratory-confirmed GTIs. RESULTS At baseline, 16.2% of females (32/198) and < 1% (1/154) of males reported ≥1 GTI symptom. However, laboratory tests identified ≥1 GTI in 70.2% and 10.4%, respectively. Female CT prevalence was 18.2%, NG 7.1%, MG 9.6%, TV 8.1%, and 5.1% were newly diagnosed with HIV. BV prevalence was 53.0% and candidiasis 9.6%. One female case of herpes was identified (0 syphilis). Male CT prevalence was 7.8%, NG 1.3%, MG 3.3%, TV < 1%, and 2.0% were newly diagnosed with HIV. Overall, 77.8% of females and 100% of males with laboratory-diagnosed GTIs reported no symptoms or were asymptomatic. Sensitivity (and specificity) of symptom-based reporting was 14% (97%) among females and 0% (99%) among males. CONCLUSION A high prevalence of asymptomatic GTIs and very poor sensitivity of symptom-based reporting undermines the applicability of syndromic GTI management, thus compromising GTI control and HIV prevention efforts among youth. Syndromic GTI management does not meet the sexual health needs of young people. Policy changes incorporating innovations in GTI diagnostic testing are needed to reduce GTIs and HIV-associated risks among youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Rm 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Janan J. Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Fatima Laher
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health (MatCH) Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Manjeetha Jaggernath
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health (MatCH) Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Megan Bardsley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Patricia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Rm 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Laura Cotton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Rm 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Pooja Chitneni
- Harvard combined Infectious Diseases Fellowship, Boston, MA USA
| | - Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Rm 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - David A. Lewis
- Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health & Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jenni A. Smit
- Maternal Adolescent and Child Health (MatCH) Research Unit (MRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thumbi Ndung’u
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme and Africa Health Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mark Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall Rm 10522, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6 Canada
| | - Glenda Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
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Bekker LG, Alleyne G, Baral S, Cepeda J, Daskalakis D, Dowdy D, Dybul M, Eholie S, Esom K, Garnett G, Grimsrud A, Hakim J, Havlir D, Isbell MT, Johnson L, Kamarulzaman A, Kasaie P, Kazatchkine M, Kilonzo N, Klag M, Klein M, Lewin SR, Luo C, Makofane K, Martin NK, Mayer K, Millett G, Ntusi N, Pace L, Pike C, Piot P, Pozniak A, Quinn TC, Rockstroh J, Ratevosian J, Ryan O, Sippel S, Spire B, Soucat A, Starrs A, Strathdee SA, Thomson N, Vella S, Schechter M, Vickerman P, Weir B, Beyrer C. Advancing global health and strengthening the HIV response in the era of the Sustainable Development Goals: the International AIDS Society-Lancet Commission. Lancet 2018; 392:312-358. [PMID: 30032975 PMCID: PMC6323648 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(18)31070-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Linda-Gail Bekker
- International AIDS Society, Geneva, Switzerland; Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - George Alleyne
- NCD Alliance, Office of the Director, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Stefan Baral
- Centre for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Javier Cepeda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - David Dowdy
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mark Dybul
- Centre for Global Health and Quality, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Serge Eholie
- Department of Dermatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical School, Felix Houphouet Boigny Universty Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire
| | - Kene Esom
- HIV, Health and Development Group, United Nations Development Programme, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geoff Garnett
- HIV Delivery, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - James Hakim
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Diane Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Fransisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Leigh Johnson
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Parastu Kasaie
- Department of Health, Behaviour and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michel Kazatchkine
- UNAIDS and Global Health Center, Graduate Institute, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nduku Kilonzo
- National AIDS Control Council for Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Michael Klag
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marina Klein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sharon R Lewin
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chewe Luo
- HIV/AIDS Section, United Nations Children's Fund, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Keletso Makofane
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ntobeko Ntusi
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Loyce Pace
- Global Health Council, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Carey Pike
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Piot
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anton Pozniak
- HIV Services, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, London, UK
| | - Thomas C Quinn
- Centre for Global Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; International AIDS Society-National Institute for Drug Abuse, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, MD, USA
| | - Jurgen Rockstroh
- HIV Clinic, Department of Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jirair Ratevosian
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Owen Ryan
- International AIDS Society, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Serra Sippel
- Center for Health and Gender Equity, Washington DC, USA
| | - Bruno Spire
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France
| | - Agnes Soucat
- Health Systems, Governance and Financing, World Health Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Global Health Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas Thomson
- Centre for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA; Nossal Institute for Global Health, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stefano Vella
- Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Schechter
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janerio, Brazil
| | - Peter Vickerman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Brian Weir
- Department of Health, Behaviour and Society, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- International AIDS Society, Geneva, Switzerland; Centre for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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50
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Govender K, Masebo WGB, Nyamaruze P, Cowden RG, Schunter BT, Bains A. HIV Prevention in Adolescents and Young People in the Eastern and Southern African Region: A Review of Key Challenges Impeding Actions for an Effective Response. Open AIDS J 2018; 12:53-67. [PMID: 30123385 PMCID: PMC6062910 DOI: 10.2174/1874613601812010053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The global commitment to ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030 places HIV prevention at the centre of the response. With the disease continuing to disproportionately affect young populations in the Eastern and Southern African Region (ESAR), particularly adolescent girls and young women, reducing HIV infections in this group is integral to achieving this ambitious target. This paper examines epidemiological patterns of the HIV epidemic among adolescents and young people, indicating where HIV prevention efforts need to be focused (i.e., adolescent girls and young women, adolescent boys and young men and young key populations). Key innovations in the science of HIV prevention and strategies for dealing with programme implementation are reviewed. The paper also discusses the value of processes to mitigate HIV vulnerability and recommends actions needed to sustain the HIV prevention response. Stemming the tide of new HIV infections among young people in the ESAR requires an amplification of efforts across all sectors, which will safeguard past achievements and advance actions towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaymarlin Govender
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Wilfred G B Masebo
- Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Patrick Nyamaruze
- School of Applied Human Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Richard G Cowden
- Department of Psychology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, United States of America
| | | | - Anurita Bains
- UNICEF, Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
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