1
|
Nangendo J, Semitala F, Kalyango J, Kabami J, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Katahoire A, Karamagi C, Wanyenze R, Kamya M. Village health team-delivered oral HIV self-testing increases linkage-to-care and antiretroviral-therapy initiation among men in Uganda. AIDS Care 2024; 36:482-490. [PMID: 37331019 PMCID: PMC10859534 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2223901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Targeted strategies are central to increasing HIV-status awareness and progress on the care cascade among men. We implemented Village-Health-Team (VHT)-delivered HIV self-testing (HIVST) among men in a peri-urban Ugandan district and assessed linkage to confirmatory-testing, antiretroviral-therapy (ART) initiation and HIV-status disclosure following HIVST. We conducted a prospective cohort study from November 2018 to June 2019 and enrolled 1628 men from 30-villages of Mpigi district. VHTs offered each participant one HIVST-kit and a linkage-to-care information leaflet. At baseline, we collected data on demographics, testing history and risk behavior. At one-month, we measured linkage to confirmatory-testing and HIV-status disclosure, and at three months ART-initiation if tested HIV-positive. We used Poisson regression generalized estimating equations to evaluate predictors of confirmatory-testing. We found that 19.8% had never tested for HIV and 43% had not tested in the last 12-months. After receiving HIVST-kits, 98.5% self-reported HIVST-uptake in 10-days, 78.8% obtained facility-based confirmation in 30-days of HIVST with 3.9% tested HIV-positive. Of the positives, 78.8% were newly diagnosed, 88% initiated ART and 57% disclosed their HIV-status to significant others. Confirmatory testing was associated with having a higher level of education and knowing a partner's HIV-status. VHT-delivered HIVST may be effective for boosting testing, ART-initiation and HIV-status disclosure among men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mercy Muwema
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Katahoire
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda Wanyenze
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nante RW, Muyinda H, Kiweewa JM, Ndagire R, Ssendikwanawa E, Ojiambo KO, Nangendo J, Nakku J, Semitala FC. Acceptance of assisted partner notification among HIV-positive adults with severe mental illness at a national referral hospital in Uganda: a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:319. [PMID: 38459486 PMCID: PMC10924341 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10770-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV mostly affects people with severe mental illnesses (SMIs) than the general population. In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced assisted partner notification (APN) as a strategy to increase HIV testing. Although research has demonstrated the effectiveness of APN in the general population, its use among people living with HIV (PLHIV) who have SMI is not well understood. This study sought to determine the acceptance of the APN strategy among PLHIV who had a diagnosis of SMI. METHODS This study used a cross-sectional study design that was retrospective to determine acceptance of APN among PLHIV with a documented diagnosis of SMI. We enrolled participants with a diagnosis of both HIV and SMI from August 2018 to January 2022, attending the HIV clinic at Butabika Hospital. We used pretested questionnaires to extract participants' demographic and clinical data from their existing clinical charts, antiretroviral therapy (ART) registers and APN registers. We defined acceptance of APN as the number of PLHIV with SMI diagnoses who agreed to provide information about their sexual partners. We used modified Poisson regression analysis to assess the factors associated with the acceptance of APN. RESULTS A total of 125 participants were enrolled, of whom 83 (66.4%) were female. The median age was 30 (interquartile range (IQR) (25-34)), and 41 (33%) of them accepted APN (95% CI: 25.05-41.61). Receipt of at least three counselling sessions before enrollment in APN (aPR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.72-1.98) was the most significant factor associated with increased acceptance of APN. Poor adherence to ART (aPR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.54-0.80), being escorted to hospital by a distant relative (aPR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.39-0.80), being married/cohabiting (aPR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.60-0.81), and being a Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) (aPR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.45-0.71) or Pentecostal (aPR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.22-0.98) by faith were associated with reduced acceptance of APN. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION The acceptance of APN is low among PLHIV with a diagnosis of SMI. More structured counselling would facilitate earlier identification of undiagnosed HIV-positive partners. We recommend a follow-up study to compare acceptance of APN among PLHIV with SMI and those without SMI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Wangi Nante
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
- Africa Centre for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Herbert Muyinda
- Child Health and Development Centre (CHDC), College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John M Kiweewa
- Education Department, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT, USA
| | - Regina Ndagire
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Africa Centre for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emmanuel Ssendikwanawa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kevin Ouma Ojiambo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Africa Centre for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C Semitala
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Mulago Immune Suppression Syndrome Clinic, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tusabe J, Nangendo J, Muhoozi M, Muyinda H. Use and non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy among Refugee HIV positive pregnant mothers aged 18-49 years in Kyangwali Refugee Camp, Western Uganda. Res Sq 2024:rs.3.rs-3961640. [PMID: 38464056 PMCID: PMC10925420 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3961640/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Refugee HIV positive mothers experience significant obstacles in accessing, utilizing and adhering to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Identifying ART non-adherence can help enforce interventions aimed at improving adherence and subsequently effectiveness of ART among the refugee mothers. We describe the use and the factors associated with non-adherence to ART among Refugee HIV positive pregnant mothers aged 18-49 years in Kyangwali Refugee Camp, Uganda. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among HIV positive pregnant mothers aged 18-49 years in Kyangwali refugee camp between May and June 2023. Using a structured questionnaire, we collected data on use, and factors associated with non-adherence to ART. We used modified Poisson regression analysis to determine factors associated with non-adherence to ART. Results Of the 380 participants enrolled, 192 (50.5%) were married, mean age 32.1 years. Overall, 98.7; 95% CI [97.5-99.8%] were using ART and 27.4; 95% CI [22.9-31.9%] were non-adherent. Non-adherence was associated with; Initiating PMTCT care in the third trimester of pregnancy (aPR: 2.06; 95% CI: 1.27-3.35), no need to get permission to seek PMTCT services aPR 1.61; 95% CI [1.07-2.42] and poor attitude of PMTCT providers aPR 1.90; 95% CI [1.20-3.01]. Conclusion and recommendations Non-adherence to ART was generally high; therefore limiting the effectiveness of the PMTCT program in this setting. Refugee context specific education interventional programs aimed at early initiation into HIV care, strong social and psychological support from families, communities and health care providers are vital to improve adherence this setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Tusabe
- Makerere University, College of Health Sciences School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael Muhoozi
- Makerere University Center for Health and Population Research
| | - Herbert Muyinda
- Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Child Health and Development Center
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Muwema M, Nankabirwa JI, Edwards G, Nalwadda G, Nangendo J, Okiring J, Obeng-Amoako GO, Mwanja W, Ekong EN, Kalyango JN, Kaye DK. Perinatal care and its association with perinatal death among women attending care in three district hospitals of western Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:113. [PMID: 38321398 PMCID: PMC10845583 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06305-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Provision of effective care to all women and newborns during the perinatal period is a viable strategy for achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 3 targets on reducing maternal and neonatal mortality. This study examined perinatal care (antenatal, intrapartum, postpartum) and its association with perinatal deaths at three district hospitals in Bunyoro region, Uganda. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in which a questionnaire was administered consecutively to 872 postpartum women before discharge who had attended antenatal care and given birth in the study hospitals. Data on care received during antenatal, labour, delivery, and postpartum period, and perinatal outcome were extracted from medical records of the enrolled postnatal women using a pre-tested structured tool. The care received from antenatal to 24 h postpartum period was assessed against the standard protocol of care established by World Health Organization (WHO). Poisson regression was used to assess the association between care received and perinatal death. RESULTS The mean age of the women was 25 years (standard deviation [SD] 5.95). Few women had their blood tested for hemoglobin levels, HIV, and Syphilis (n = 53, 6.1%); had their urine tested for glucose and proteins (n = 27, 3.1%); undertook an ultrasound scan (n = 262, 30%); and had their maternal status assessed (n = 122, 14%) during antenatal care as well as had their uterus assessed for contraction and bleeding during postpartum care (n = 63, 7.2%). There were 19 perinatal deaths, giving a perinatal mortality rate of 22/1,000 births (95% Confidence interval [CI] 8.1-35.5). Of these 9 (47.4%) were stillbirths while the remaining 10 (52.6%) were early neonatal deaths. In the antenatal phase, only fetal examination was significantly associated with perinatal death (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 0.22, 95% CI 0.1-0.6). No significant association was found between perinatal deaths and care during labour, delivery, and the early postpartum period. CONCLUSION Women did not receive all the required perinatal care during the perinatal period. Perinatal mortality rate in Bunyoro region remains high, although it's lower than the national average. The study shows a reduction in the proportion of perinatal deaths for pregnancies where the mother received fetal monitoring. Strategies focused on strengthened fetal status monitoring such as fetal movement counting methods and fetal heart rate monitoring devices during pregnancy need to be devised to reduce the incidence of perinatal deaths. Findings from the study provide valuable information that would support the strengthening of perinatal care services for improved perinatal outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercy Muwema
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Joaniter I Nankabirwa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Edwards
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aga Khan University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gorrette Nalwadda
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gloria Odei Obeng-Amoako
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, School of Biological Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | | | - Elizabeth N Ekong
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Public Health, Nursing and Midwifery, Uganda Christian University, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Joan N Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dan K Kaye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nangendo J, Wanyenze RK, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Mukisa J, Okiring J, Kabami J, Karamagi CA, Semitala FC, Kalyango JN, Kamya MR, Katahoire AR. Health provider perspectives of Village Health Team-delivered oral HIV self-testing among men in Central Uganda: a qualitative evaluation using RE-AIM framework. Res Sq 2024:rs.3.rs-3816613. [PMID: 38343851 PMCID: PMC10854283 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3816613/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) is a practical and effective way to provide HIV testing services to at-risk and underserved populations, particularly men. Utilizing Village Health Teams (VHTs) could enhance community-based delivery of oral HIVST to reach the last un-tested individuals who may be at-risk of infection. However, little is known about what VHTs and facility-based healthcare workers think about facilitating oral HIVST and delivery of subsequent HIV services. We investigated the views of health providers on oral HIVST delivered by VHTs among men in rural communities in Central Uganda. Methods We conducted a qualitative study in Mpigi district, interviewing 27 health providers who facilitated oral HIV self-testing among men. The providers consisting of 15 VHTs and 12 facility-based health workers were purposively selected. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated to English for a hybrid inductive-deductive thematic analysis. We used the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) Implementation Science framework to generate and categorize open codes. Results In terms of reaching men with HIV testing services, the providers considered HIVST to be a fast and convenient method, which could boost HIV testing. However, they also had concerns about its accuracy. In terms of effectiveness, HIVST was perceived as a reliable, user-friendly, and efficient approach to HIV testing. However, it depended on the user's preference for testing algorithms. Regarding adoption, HIVST was considered to enhance autonomy, well-suited for use in the community, and offered opportunities for linkage and re-linkage into care. However, at times HIVST faced hesitance. As for Implementation, VHTs had various support roles in HIVST but had concerns about social insecurities and delays in seeking subsequent facility-based services after HIVST. Regarding Maintenance, providers recommended several ways to improve oral HIVST including; optimizing tracking of HIVST distribution and use, improving linkage and retention in care after HIVST, diversifying HIVST for combined HIV prevention packages and including more languages, broadening sensitization among potential HIVST users and health providers, differentiating distribution models, and prioritizing targeted HIVST efforts. Conclusion HIVST has the potential to increase testing rates and engagement of men in HIV services. However, for it to be implemented on a population-wide scale, continuous sensitization of potential users and health providers is necessary, along with streamlined structures for tracking kit distribution, use, and reporting of results. Further implementation research may be necessary to optimize the role of health providers in facilitating HIVST.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - John Mukisa
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ojiambo KO, Nakku J, Wangi RN, Segawa I, Ndagire R, Nangendo J, Katahoire A, Semitala F. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics associated with retention in care among adults living with HIV and severe mental illness and reasons for loss to follow-up in Uganda: a mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e073623. [PMID: 37899147 PMCID: PMC10619097 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics associated with retention in care and reasons for loss to follow-up (LTFU) among people living with HIV (PLWH) with a known diagnosis of severe mental illness (SMI). DESIGN We conducted a parallel convergent mixed-methods study. The quantitative study was used to determine the proportion and factors associated with retention in care among PLWH and SMI. The qualitative study explored reasons for LTFU. SETTING This study was conducted at two the HIV clinics of two tertiary hospitals in Uganda. PARTICIPANTS We reviewed records of 608 PLWH who started antiretroviral therapy (ART) and included participants who had a documented diagnosis of SMI. OUTCOMES The primary outcome was retention in care. Age, gender, religion, tuberculosis (TB) status, WHO clinical stage, functional status, cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) cell count, viral load and SMI diagnosis were among the predictor variables. RESULTS We collected data from 328 participants. Retention at 6 months was 43.3% compared with 35.7% at 12 months. Having an unsuppressed viral load (≥1000 copies/mL) (adjusted incidence risk ratio (IRR)=1.54, 95% CI: 1.17 to 2.03), being 36 years and below (adjusted IRR=0.94, 95% CI: 0.94 to 0.95), initial presentation at outpatient department (adjusted IRR=0.74, 95% CI: 0.57 to 0.96), having TB signs and symptoms (adjusted IRR=0.98 95% CI: 0.97 to 0.99) and being in lower WHO stages (I and II) (adjusted IRR=1.08, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.14) at ART initiation were significantly associated with retention in care at 6 and 12 months. Inadequate social support, long waiting hours at the clinic, perceived stigma and discrimination, competing life activities, low socioeconomic status and poor adherence to psychiatric medication were barriers to retention in care. CONCLUSION Twelve-month retention in care remains low at 35.7% far below the 90% WHO target. There is a need to design and implement targeted interventions to address barriers to retention in care among PLWH and SMI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Ouma Ojiambo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Africa Center for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Referral and Teaching Mental Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel Nante Wangi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Segawa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Regina Ndagire
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre (CHDC), Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Semitala
- Department of Medicine, School of medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Mulago Immune Suppression Syndrome Clinic, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ndagire R, Wangi RN, Ojiambo KO, Nangendo J, Nakku J, Muyinda H, Semitala FC. HIV viral load suppression among people with mental disorders at two urban HIV clinics in Uganda: a parallel convergent mixed methods study using the social ecological model. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:68. [PMID: 37726822 PMCID: PMC10510257 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00567-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uganda adopted and implemented the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) guidelines in 2017, which require HIV-infected persons to be initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at any CD4 + cell count, and to be routinely monitored for viral load to assess response to ART. However, there is paucity of data on viral load suppression (VLS) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) with mental disorders. We conducted a parallel convergent mixed methods study to determine HIV VLS among people with a mental disorder and explored the socio-cultural determinants of VLS at Butabika hospital and Mulago (ISS) HIV Clinics in Uganda. METHODS We conducted a retrospective medical records review; seven key informant interviews (KII) among purposively selected healthcare providers and 12 in-depth interviews (IDI) among clinically stable PLHIV with a mental disorder. Data was collected on demographics, mental disorder, ART, viral load status, social support, stigma, and disclosure of HIV status. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression, while Inductive thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. RESULTS Of the 240 PLHIV with a mental disorder who were enrolled, 161 (67.1%) were female with mean age 38.9 (± 11.2) years. Overall, 88.8% (95% Cl: 84.0 - 92.2%) achieved VLS. Age (aPR = 1.00, 95%Cl = 1.00-1.00), male gender (aPR = 0.90, 95%Cl = 0.82-0.98), divorced (aPR = 0.88, 95%Cl = 0.82-0.94), widowed (aPR = 0.84, 95%Cl = 0.83-0.86), baseline CD4 count < 200 (aPR = 0.89, 95%Cl = 0.85-0.94), psychotic mental disorders (aPR = 1.11; 95%CI = 1.08-1.13) and fair (85-94%) ART adherence level (aPR = 0.69, 95%Cl = 0.55-0.87) and TDF/3TC/DTG (aPR = 0.92; 95%CI = 0.91-0.94) were associated with HIV VLS. Social support from family members, knowledge of impact of negative thoughts on VLS, fear of breaking up with partners and compassionate healthcare providers positively influenced VLS. Stigma and discrimination from the community, self-perceived stigma hindering social relations, socio-economic challenges and psychiatric drug stock-outs negatively affected VLS. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS HIV VLS among PLHIV with mental disorders at institutions that provide integrated HIV and mental health care is still below the UNAIDS 95% target. Health promotion messaging focusing on benefits of VLS and countering stigma to create a safe environment; and active involvement of family members in care could improve HIV treatment outcomes for PLHIV with mental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Regina Ndagire
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
- Clarke International University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Rachel Nante Wangi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kevin Ouma Ojiambo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nakku
- Butabika National Mental Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Fred C Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kabami J, Owaraganise A, Beesiga B, Okiring J, Kakande E, Chen YH, Mwangwa F, Akatukwasa C, Nangendo J, Muyindike W, Semitala FC, Roh ME, Kamya MR. Effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on the HIV care continuum in Southwestern Uganda: A time series analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289000. [PMID: 37561727 PMCID: PMC10414556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Uganda, COVID-19 lockdown policies curbed the spread of SARS-CoV-2, but their effect on HIV care is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES We examined the effects of COVID-19 lockdown policies on ART initiation, missed visits, and viral suppression in Uganda. METHODS We conducted a time series analysis using data from a dynamic cohort of persons with HIV enrolled between March 2017 and September 2021 at HIV clinics in Masaka and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospitals in Southwestern Uganda. Poisson and fractional probit regression were used to predict expected monthly antiretroviral therapy initiations, missed visits, and viral suppression based on pre-lockdown trends. Observed and expected trends were compared across three policy periods: April 2020-September 2021 (overall), April-May 2020 (1st lockdown), and June-August 2021 (2nd lockdown). RESULTS We enrolled 7071 Persons living with HIV (PWH) (nMasaka = 4150; nMbarara = 2921). Average ART duration was 34 and 30 months in Masaka and Mbarara, respectively. During the 18-month post-lockdown period, monthly ART initiations were lower than expected in both Masaka (51 versus 63 visits; a decrease of 12 [95% CI: -2, 31] visits) and Mbarara (42 versus 55 visits; a decrase of 13 [95% CI: 0, 27] visits). Proportion of missed visits was moderately higher than expected post-lockdown in Masaka (10% versus 7%; 4% [95% CI: 1%, 7%] absolute increase), but not in Mbarara (13% versus 13%; 0% [95% CI: -4%, 6%] absolute decrease). Viral suppression rates were moderate-to-high in Masaka (64.7%) and Mbarara (92.5%) pre-lockdown and remained steady throughout the post-lockdown period. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 lockdown in Uganda was associated with reductions in ART initiation, with minimal effects on retention and viral suppression, indicating a resilient HIV care system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Brian Beesiga
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elijah Kakande
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yea-Hung Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Florence Mwangwa
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Winnie Muyindike
- Global Health Collaborative, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michelle E. Roh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC), Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Nangendo J, Katahoire AR, Karamagi CA, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Okiring J, Kabami J, Semitala FC, Kalyango JN, Wanyenze RK, Kamya MR. Uptake and perceptions of oral HIV self-testing delivered by village health teams among men in Central Uganda: A concurrent parallel mixed methods analysis. PLOS Glob Public Health 2023; 3:e0002019. [PMID: 37315008 PMCID: PMC10266653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends HIV self-testing (HIVST) to increase access to and utilization of HIV services among underserved populations. We assessed the uptake and perceptions of oral HIVST delivered by Village Health Teams (VHTs) among men in a peri-urban district in Central Uganda. We used a concurrent parallel mixed methods study design and analyzed data from 1628 men enrolled in a prospective cohort in Mpigi district, Central Uganda between October 2018 and June 2019. VHTs distributed HIVST kits and linkage-to-care information leaflets to participants in 30 study villages allowing up-to 10 days each to self-test. At baseline, we collected data on participant socio-demographics, testing history and risk behavior for HIV. During follow-up, we measured HIVST uptake (using self-reports and proof of a used kit) and conducted in-depth interviews to explore participants' perceptions of using HIVST. We used descriptive statistics to analyze the quantitative data and a hybrid inductive, and deductive thematic analysis for the qualitative data and integrated the results at interpretation. The median age of men was 28 years, HIVST uptake was 96% (1564/1628), HIV positivity yield was 4% (63/1564) and reported disclosure of HIVST results to sexual partners and significant others was 75.6% (1183/1564). Men perceived HIVST as a quick, flexible, convenient, and more private form of testing; allowing disclosure of HIV test results to sexual partners, friends and family, and receiving social support. Others perceived it as an opportunity for knowing or re-confirming their sero-status and subsequent linkage or re-linkage to care and prevention. Utilizing VHT networks for community-based delivery of HIVST is effective in reaching men with HIV testing services. Men perceived HIVST as highly beneficial but needed more training on performing the test and the integrating post-test counseling support to optimize use of the test for diagnosing HIV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanita Nangendo
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne R. Katahoire
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles A. Karamagi
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gloria O. Obeng-Amoako
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- International Centre for Evaluation and Development, Tema, Ghana
| | - Mercy Muwema
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda K. Wanyenze
- School of Public Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Agwang W, Nangendo J, Nabikande S, Okello T, Tusabe J, Semitala FC, Kasasa S, Matovu JKB. Factors associated with willingness to take Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among high-risk adolescent boys and young men in Masese fishing community, Uganda. PLOS Glob Public Health 2023; 3:e0001191. [PMID: 37289700 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is a known HIV prevention strategy for high-risk populations however, some high-risk communities have not yet fully embraced it. We sought to determine willingness to take PrEP and the associated factors among high-risk adolescent boys and young men (ABYM) in Masese fishing community, Jinja district, Eastern Uganda. We conducted a cross-sectional study, between October and November 2020, using a semi-structured questionnaire among ABYM aged 10-24 years in Masese fishing community, Eastern Uganda. We surveyed 479 participants, who had two or more sexual partners with inconsistent or no condom use. We carried out modified Poisson regression analysis to determine factors associated with willingness to take PrEP.Of 479 high-risk ABYM, 86.4% (n = 414) were willing to take PrEP. Confidence in PrEP safety (adj.PR = 1.56; 95%CI: 1.55, 2.24), availability of PrEP in areas easily accessible by ABYM (adj.PR = 1.40; 95%CI: 1.25, 1.57), and perceiving oneself as being at a very high risk of HIV infection (adj.PR = 1.11; 95%CI: 1.03, 1.20) were positively associated with willingness to take PrEP. On the other hand, being unmarried (adj.PR = 0.92; 95%CI: 0.87, 0.98) and earning more than USD 27 a month (adj.PR = 0.92; 95%CI: 0.87, 0.97) were negatively associated with willingness to take PrEP. There was high willingness to take PrEP among adolescent boys and young men in Masese fishing community. Confidence in PrEP safety, access to PrEP in their community and self-perception to be at high risk for HIV acquisition had a positive bearing on willingness to take PrEP while being unmarried and earning more than USD27 had a negative bearing on willingness to take PrEP. These findings suggest a need for target-specific interventions for unmarried men and those earning >USD27.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Agwang
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sherifah Nabikande
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Okello
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan Tusabe
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Simon Kasasa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph K B Matovu
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ndagire R, Wangi RN, Ojiambo KO, Nangendo J, Nakku J, Muyinda H, Semitala FC. HIV viral load suppression among people with mental disorders at two urban HIV Clinics in Uganda: a parallel convergent mixed methods study using the Social Ecological Model. Res Sq 2023:rs.3.rs-2897447. [PMID: 37214962 PMCID: PMC10197750 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2897447/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Uganda adopted and implemented the Universal Test and Treat (UTT) guidelines in 2017, which require HIV-infected persons to be initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at any CD4 + cell count, and to be routinely monitored for viral load to assess response to ART. However, there is paucity of data on viral load suppression (VLS) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) with mental disorders. We conducted a parallel convergent mixed methods study to determine HIV VLS among people with a mental disorder and explored the socio-cultural determinants of VLS at Butabika hospital and Mulago (ISS) HIV Clinics in Uganda. Methods We conducted a retrospective medical records review; seven key informant interviews (KII) among purposively selected healthcare providers and 12 in-depth interviews (IDI) among clinically stable PLHIV with a mental disorder. Data was collected on demographics, mental disorder, ART, viral load status, social support, stigma, and disclosure of HIV status. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression, while Inductive thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. Results Of the 240 PLHIV with a mental disorder who were enrolled, 161 (67.1%) were female with mean age 38.9 (± 11.2) years. Overall, 88.8% (95% Cl: 84.0% - 92.2%) achieved VLS. Age (aPR = 1.01, 95%Cl = 1.00-1.01), male gender (aPR = 0.95, 95%Cl = 0.95-0.95), divorced (aPR = 0.89, 95%Cl = 0.87-0.91), widowed (aPR = 0.84, 95%Cl = 0.79-0.90), baseline CD4 count < 200 (aPR = 0.89, 95%Cl = 0.82-0.95), and fair (85-94%) ART adherence level (aPR = 0.68, (95%Cl = 0.54-0.87) were associated with HIV VLS. Social support from family members, knowledge of impact of negative thoughts on VLS, fear of breaking up with partners and compassionate healthcare providers positively influenced VLS. Stigma and discrimination from the community, self-perceived stigma hindering social relations, socio-economic challenges and psychiatric drug stock-outs negatively affected VLS. Conclusion and recommendations HIV VLS among PLHIV with mental disorders at institutions that provide integrated HIV and mental health care is still below the UNAIDS 95% target. Health promotion messaging focusing on benefits of VLS and countering stigma to create a safe environment; and active involvement of family members in care could improve HIV treatment outcomes for PLHIV with mental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Regina Ndagire
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University
| | - Rachel Nante Wangi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University
| | - Kevin Ouma Ojiambo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nabikande S, Namutundu J, Nangendo J, Okello T, Agwang W, Tusabe J, Kabwama SN, Katahoire AR. Men's late presentation for HIV care in Eastern Uganda: The role of masculinity norms. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277534. [PMID: 36395256 PMCID: PMC9671417 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Uganda, adult men living with HIV are more likely to present late for care; with a CD4 cell count below 350 cells/μl compared to women. Understanding why adult men present late for HIV care is important in improving early linkage to care. Studies across countries in Sub-Saharan Africa emphasize the role of masculinity norms; defined as social expectations about appropriate roles and behavior for men, in men's health behaviours particularly, in HIV care engagement. This study therefore explored how masculinity norms influence men's late presentation for HIV care. METHODS This was a qualitative study undertaken in Jinja District, Eastern Uganda between October and November 2020. We conducted 20 In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) with men living with HIV who had presented late for care at Family Hope Centre. We also conducted four Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with HIV negative men and women in selected communities of Katende and Walukuba. Conventional content analysis approach was used to identify themes across the collected data. RESULTS A total of 20 men participated in the In-depth Interviews (IDIs), with majority being married 15/20 (75%) and primary level holders 7/15 (46.7%). Nineteen (19) women participated in two FGDs, with a mean age of 29.5 years. Nineteen (19) men also participated in other two FGDs, with a mean age of 28.2 years. Conventional content analysis results indicated that men's late presentation for HIV care in Jinja district is greatly related to their concerns of loss of respect and the need to preserve their reputation and maintain a sense of normality in their families and society as proposed by Wilson's (1969) respectability-reputation theoretical model. Respectability was endorsed by 'the wider society', while reputation was endorsed almost entirely by men and some women. CONCLUSION Findings show that the explanations for men's late presentation arise from the masculinity norms in Jinja District, Eastern Uganda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sherifah Nabikande
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Juliana Namutundu
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Okello
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Agwang
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan Tusabe
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Steven Ndugwa Kabwama
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda Public Health Fellowship Program, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Ruhweza Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Okiring J, Gonahasa S, Nassali M, Namuganga JF, Bagala I, Maiteki-Sebuguzi C, Opigo J, Nabende I, Nangendo J, Kabami J, Ssewanyana I, Kiwuwa SM, Nankabirwa JI, Dorsey G, Briggs J, Kamya MR, Staedke SG. LLIN Evaluation in Uganda Project (LLINEUP2)-Factors associated with coverage and use of long‑lasting insecticidal nets following the 2020-21 national mass distribution campaign: a cross-sectional survey of 12 districts. Malar J 2022; 21:293. [PMID: 36261818 PMCID: PMC9580445 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04302-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020-2021, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were distributed nationwide in Uganda during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 12 districts to evaluate the impact of the campaign 1-5 months after LLIN distribution. METHODS During April-May 2021, households were randomly selected from target areas (1-7 villages) surrounding 12 government-run health facilities established as Malaria Reference Centres; at least 50 households were enrolled per cluster. Outcomes included household ownership of LLINs distributed through the universal coverage campaign (UCC) (at least one UCC LLIN), adequate coverage of UCC LLINs (at least one UCC LLIN per 2 residents), and use of LLINs (resident slept under a LLIN the previous night). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify household- and individual-level factors associated with outcomes, controlling for clustering around health facilities. RESULTS In total, 634 households, with 3342 residents and 1631 bed-nets, were included. Most households (93.4%) owned at least 1 UCC LLIN, but only 56.8% were adequately covered by UCC LLINs. In an adjusted analysis, the factor most strongly associated with adequate coverage by UCC LLINs was fewer household residents (1-4 vs 7-14; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 12.96, 95% CI 4.76-35.26, p < 0.001; 5-6 vs 7-14 residents; aOR 2.99, 95% CI 1.21-7.42, p = 0.018). Of the 3166 residents of households that owned at least one UCC LLIN, only 1684 (53.2%) lived in adequately covered households; 89.9% of these used an LLIN the previous night, compared to 1034 (69.8%) of 1482 residents living in inadequately covered households. In an adjusted analysis, restricted to residents of inadequately covered households, LLIN use was higher in children under-five than those aged 5-15 years (aOR 3.04, 95% CI 2.08-4.46, p < 0.001), and higher in household heads than distantly-related residents (aOR 3.94, 95% CI 2.38-6.51, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Uganda's 2021-21 campaign was successful, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In future campaigns, strategies should be adopted to ensure high LLIN coverage, particularly for larger households. A better understanding of the drivers of LLIN use within households is needed to guide future interventions, educational messages, and behaviour change communication strategies; school-aged children and distantly-related residents appear vulnerable and could be targeted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaffer Okiring
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda.
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Samuel Gonahasa
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Martha Nassali
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane F Namuganga
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Irene Bagala
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Maiteki-Sebuguzi
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
- National Malaria Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jimmy Opigo
- National Malaria Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaiah Nabende
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ssewanyana
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Steven M Kiwuwa
- Department of Child Health and Development Centre, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joaniter I Nankabirwa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grant Dorsey
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jessica Briggs
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Moses R Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sarah G Staedke
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, PO Box 7475, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tusabe J, Muyinda H, Nangendo J, Kwesiga D, Nabikande S, Muhoozi M, Agwang W, Okello T, Rutebemberwa E. Factors Influencing the Uptake of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision Among Boda-Boda Riders Aged 18–49 Years in Hoima, Western Uganda. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:437-449. [PMID: 36188163 PMCID: PMC9516793 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s382219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Methods Results Conclusion
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Tusabe
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Correspondence: Joan Tusabe, Email
| | - Herbert Muyinda
- Child Health and Development Center, School of Medicine Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Doris Kwesiga
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of public health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sherifah Nabikande
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of public health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael Muhoozi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Agwang
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of public health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Okello
- Clinical epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizeus Rutebemberwa
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, School of public health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Muwema M, Kaye DK, Edwards G, Nalwadda G, Nangendo J, Okiring J, Mwanja W, Ekong EN, Kalyango JN, Nankabirwa JI. Perinatal care in Western Uganda: Prevalence and factors associated with appropriate care among women attending three district hospitals. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267015. [PMID: 35639711 PMCID: PMC9154186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Perinatal mortality remains high globally and remains an important indicator of the quality of a health care system. To reduce this mortality, it is important to provide the recommended care during the perinatal period. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with appropriate perinatal care (antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum) in Bunyoro region, Uganda. Results from this study provide valuable information on the perinatal care services and highlight areas of improvement for better perinatal outcomes. Methods A cross sectional survey was conducted among postpartum mothers attending care at three district hospitals in Bunyoro. Following consent, a questionnaire was administered to capture the participants’ demographics and data on care received was extracted from their antenatal, labour, delivery, and postpartum records using a pre-tested structured tool. The care received by women was assessed against the standard protocol established by World Health Organization (WHO). Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to assess factors associated with appropriate postpartum care. Results A total of 872 mothers receiving care at the participating hospitals between March and June 2020 were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the mothers was 25 years (SD = 5.95). None of the mothers received appropriate antenatal or intrapartum care, and only 3.8% of the participants received appropriate postpartum care. Factors significantly associated with appropriate postpartum care included mothers being >35 years of age (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 11.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.8–51.4) and parity, with low parity (2–3) and multiparous (>3) mothers less likely to receive appropriate care than prime gravidas (aPR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.9 and aPR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1–0.8 respectively). Conclusions Antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care received by mothers in this region remains below the standard recommended by WHO, and innovative strategies across the continuum of perinatal care need to be devised to prevent mortality among the mothers. The quality of care also needs to be balanced for all mothers irrespective of the age and parity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mercy Muwema
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Dan K. Kaye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Edwards
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Aga Khan University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Gorrette Nalwadda
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Elizabeth N. Ekong
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Uganda Christian University, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joaniter I. Nankabirwa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Armstrong-Hough M, Ggita J, Gupta AJ, Shelby T, Nangendo J, Ayen DO, Davis JL, Katamba A. Assessing a norming intervention to promote acceptance of HIV testing and reduce stigma during household tuberculosis contact investigation: protocol for a cluster-randomised trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e061508. [PMID: 35613785 PMCID: PMC9134160 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV status awareness is important for household contacts of patients with tuberculosis (TB). Home HIV testing during TB contact investigation increases HIV status awareness. Social interactions during home visits may influence perceived stigma and uptake of HIV testing. We designed an intervention to normalise and facilitate uptake of home HIV testing with five components: guided selection of first tester; prosocial invitation scripts; opt-out framing; optional sharing of decisions to test; and masking of decisions not to test. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will evaluate the intervention effect in a household-randomised controlled trial. The primary aim is to assess whether contacts offered HIV testing using the norming strategy will accept HIV testing more often than those offered testing using standard strategies. Approximately 198 households will be enrolled through three public health facilities in Kampala, Uganda. Households will be randomised to receive the norming or standard strategy and visited by a community health worker (CHW) assigned to that strategy. Eligible contacts ≥15 years will be offered optional, free, home HIV testing. The primary outcome, proportion of contacts accepting HIV testing, will be assessed by CHWs and analysed using an intention-to-treat approach. Secondary outcomes will be changes in perceived HIV stigma, changes in perceived TB stigma, effects of perceived HIV stigma on HIV test uptake, effects of perceived TB stigma on HIV test uptake and proportions of first-invited contacts who accept HIV testing. Results will inform new, scalable strategies for delivering HIV testing. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Yale Human Investigation Committee (2000024852), Makerere University School of Public Health Institutional Review Board (661) and Uganda National Council on Science and Technology (HS2567). All participants, including patients and their household contacts, will provide verbal informed consent. Results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated to national stakeholders, including policy-makers and representatives of affected communities. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05124665.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Departments of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Epidemiology, New York University, New YorkUSA
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ggita
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Amanda J Gupta
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
- Epideimology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tyler Shelby
- Epideimology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - J L Davis
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
- Epideimology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine Section, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevetion Science, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Achilles Katamba
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Odei Obeng-Amoako GA, Karamagi CAS, Nangendo J, Okiring J, Kiirya Y, Aryeetey R, Mupere E, Myatt M, Briend A, Kalyango JN, Wamani H. Factors associated with concurrent wasting and stunting among children 6-59 months in Karamoja, Uganda. Matern Child Nutr 2020; 17:e13074. [PMID: 32830434 PMCID: PMC7729532 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Children with concurrent wasting and stunting (WaSt) and children with severe wasting have a similar risk of death. Existing evidence shows that wasting and stunting share similar causal pathways, but evidence on correlates of WaSt remains limited. Research on correlates of WaSt is needed to inform prevention strategies. We investigated the factors associated with WaSt in children 6–59 months in Karamoja Region, Uganda. We examined data for 33,054 children aged 6–59 months using June 2015 to July 2018 Food Security and Nutrition Assessment in Karamoja. We defined WaSt as being concurrently wasted (weight‐for‐height z‐scores <−2.0) and stunted (height‐for‐age z‐score <−2.0). We conducted multivariate mixed‐effect logistic regression to assess factors associated with WaSt. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. In multivariate analysis, being male (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.60–2.00]), aged 12–23 months (aOR = 2.25; 95% CI [1.85–2.74]), 36–47 months (aOR = 0.65; 95% CI [0.50–0.84]) and 48–59 months (aOR = 0.71; 95% CI [0.54–0.93]) were associated with WaSt. In addition, acute respiratory infection (aOR = 1.30; 95% CI [1.15–1.48]), diarrhoea (aOR = 1.25; 95% CI [1.06–1.48]) and malaria/fever (aOR = 0.83; 95% CI [0.73–0.96]) episodes were associated with WaSt. WaSt was significantly associated with maternal underweight (body mass index <18.5 kg/m2), short stature (height <160 cm), low mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC <23 cm) and having ≥4 live‐births. WaSt was prevalent in households without livestock (aOR = 1.30; 95% CI [1.13–1.59]). Preventing the occurrence of WaSt through pragmatic and joint approaches are recommended. Future prospective studies on risk factors of WaSt to inform effective prevention strategies are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles Amnon Sunday Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jaffer Okiring
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yerusa Kiirya
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Ezekial Mupere
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mark Myatt
- Brixton Health, Llawryglyn, Powys, Wales, UK
| | - André Briend
- School of Medicine, Centre for Child Health Research, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland.,Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joan Nakayaga Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henry Wamani
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nangendo J, Katahoire AR, Armstrong-Hough M, Kabami J, Obeng-Amoako GO, Muwema M, Semitala FC, Karamagi CA, Wanyenze RK, Kamya MR, Kalyango JN. Prevalence, associated factors and perspectives of HIV testing among men in Uganda. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237402. [PMID: 32764820 PMCID: PMC7413494 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite overall increase in HIV testing, more men than women remain untested. In 2018, 92% of Ugandan women but only 67% of men had tested for HIV. Understanding men's needs and concerns for testing could guide delivery of HIV testing services (HTS) to them. We assessed the prevalence of testing, associated factors and men's perspectives on HIV testing in urban and peri-urban communities in Central Uganda. METHODS AND FINDINGS We conducted a parallel-convergent mixed-methods study among men in Kampala and Mpigi districts from August to September 2018. Using two-stage sampling, we selected 1340 men from Mpigi. We administered a structured questionnaire to collect data on HIV testing history, socio-demographics, self-reported HIV risk-related behaviors, barriers and facilitators to HIV testing. We also conducted 10 focus-groups with men from both districts to learn their perspectives on HIV testing. We used modified Poisson regression to assess factors associated with HIV testing and inductive thematic analysis to identify barriers and facilitators. Though 84.0% of men reported having tested for HIV, only 65.7% had tested in the past 12-months despite nearly all (96.7%) engaging in at least one HIV risk-related behavior. Men were more likely to have tested if aged 25-49 years, Catholic, with secondary or higher education and circumcised. Being married was associated with ever-testing while being widowed or divorced was associated with testing in past 12-months. Men who engaged in HIV risk-related behavior were less likely to have tested in the past 12-months. Qualitative findings showed that men varied in their perspectives about the need for testing, access to HTS and were uncertain of HIV testing and its outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Recent HIV testing among men remains low. Modifying testing strategies to attract men in all age groups could improve testing uptake, reduce gender disparity and initiate risk reduction interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne R. Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mari Armstrong-Hough
- Departments of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Mercy Muwema
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles A. Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rhoda K. Wanyenze
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Odei Obeng-Amoako GA, Wamani H, Conkle J, Aryeetey R, Nangendo J, Mupere E, Kalyango JN, Myatt M, Briend A, Karamagi CAS. Concurrently wasted and stunted 6-59 months children admitted to the outpatient therapeutic feeding programme in Karamoja, Uganda: Prevalence, characteristics, treatment outcomes and response. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230480. [PMID: 32196526 PMCID: PMC7083304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the prevalence of concurrently wasted and stunted (WaSt) children, their characteristics, treatment outcomes and response; and factors associated with time to recovery among children aged 6–59 months admitted to Outpatient Therapeutic Care (OTC) in Karamoja, Uganda. We conducted a retrospective cohort study with data from January 2016 to October 2017 for children admitted to nine OTCs in Karamoja. We defined wasted, stunted and underweight as 2.0 Z-scores below the median per WHO growth standards and < 12.5 cm for low Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC). WaSt was defined as concurrently wasted and stunted. Out of 788 eligible children included in the analysis; 48.7% (95% CI; 45.2–52.2) had WaSt. WaSt was common among males; 56.3% (95% CI; 51.3–61.3). Median age was 18 months in WaSt versus 12 months in non-WaSt children (p < 0.001). All WaSt children were underweight; and more severely wasted than non-WaSt children. During recovery, WaSt children gained weight more rapidly than non-WaSt children (2.2g/kg/day vs. 1.7g/kg/day). WaSt children had lower recovery rate (58.0% vs. 65.4%; p = 0.037). The difference in median time of recovery between WaSt and non-WaSt children (63 days vs. 56 days; p = 0.465) was not significant. Factors associated with time to recovery were children aged 24–59 months (aHR = 1.30; 95% CI;1.07–1.57;), children with MUAC 10.5–11.4 cm (aHR = 2.03; 95% CI; 1.55–2.66), MUAC ≥ 11.5 cm at admission (aHR = 3.31; 95% CI; 2.17–5.02) and living in Moroto (aHR = 3.34; 95% CI; 2.60–4.30) and Nakapiripirit (aHR = 1.95; 95% CI; 1.51–2.53) districts. The magnitude of children with WaSt in OTC shows that existing therapeutic feeding protocols could be used to detect and treat WaSt children. Further research is needed to identify and address the factors associated with sub-optimal recovery in WaSt children for effective OTC programming in Karamoja.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria A. Odei Obeng-Amoako
- School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Henry Wamani
- Department of Community Health and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joel Conkle
- Health and Nutrition Section, UNICEF Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | | | - Joanita Nangendo
- School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ezekiel Mupere
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - André Briend
- School of Medicine, Centre for Child Health Research, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Charles A. S. Karamagi
- School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nangendo J, Obuku EA, Kawooya I, Mukisa J, Nalutaaya A, Musewa A, Semitala FC, Karamagi CA, Kalyango JN. Diagnostic accuracy and acceptability of rapid HIV oral testing among adults attending an urban public health facility in Kampala, Uganda. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182050. [PMID: 28832588 PMCID: PMC5568333 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of HIV in Uganda is 7.3%, and yet nearly 40% of people living with HIV are unaware of their status. The current HIV testing policy which is strictly blood-based poses several challenges including: a need for high level laboratory skills, stringent waste disposal needs, and painful sample collection. It is envisaged that introduction of a rapid, painless HIV oral fluid test as a potential alternative is likely to increase the number of people testing. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy and acceptability of rapid HIV oral testing among adults attending Kisenyi Health Centre IV in Kampala. Methods and findings We conducted a cross-sectional study among 440 adults recruited consecutively at Kisenyi Health Centre IV from January to March 2016. The diagnostic accuracy of the HIV oral test was assessed by comparing to the national HIV serial testing algorithm. We also assessed for acceptability among patients and health care workers (HCWs) by triangulating responses from a structured questionnaire, three focus group discussions and seven key informant interviews. Acceptability was defined as willingness to take the test at the time of the study and intention for future use of the test if it was availed. The prevalence of HIV infection among study participants was 14.8%. The HIV oral fluid test was highly accurate with sensitivity of 100% (95% CI; 94.5–100.0), specificity of 100% (95% CI; 99.0–100.0), positive predictive value (PPV) of 100% (95% CI; 94.5–100.0) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% (95% CI; 99.0–100.0). Acceptability of HIV oral testing was also high at 87.0% (95% CI; 83.6–89.9). Participants preferred HIV oral testing because it was: pain free (91%, n = 399) and did not require blood draw (82%, n = 360). Conclusion The HIV oral fluid test has high diagnostic accuracy and acceptability. HIV oral testing is a suitable addition to the national HIV testing strategies with the potential of increasing access to HIV testing services in Uganda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanita Nangendo
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Ekwaro A. Obuku
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Africa Centre for Systematic Reviews and Knowledge Translation, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ismael Kawooya
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Mukisa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Annet Nalutaaya
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angella Musewa
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred C. Semitala
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University Joint AIDS Program (MJAP), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles A. Karamagi
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N. Kalyango
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|