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Sullivan PS, DuBose SN, Castel AD, Hoover KW, Juhasz M, Guest JL, Le G, Whitby S, Siegler AJ. Equity of PrEP uptake by race, ethnicity, sex and region in the United States in the first decade of PrEP: a population-based analysis. Lancet Reg Health Am 2024; 33:100738. [PMID: 38659491 PMCID: PMC11041841 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100738] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background PrEP was approved for HIV prevention in the US in 2012; uptake has been slow. We describe relative equity with the PrEP Equity Ratio (PER), a ratio of PrEP-to-Need Ratios (PnRs). Methods We used commercial pharmacy data to enumerate PrEP users by race and ethnicity, sex, and US Census region from 2012 to 2021. We report annual race and ethnicity-, sex-, and region-specific rates of PrEP use and PnR, a metric of PrEP equity, to assess trends. Findings PrEP use increased for Black, Hispanic and White Americans from 2012 to 2021. By 2021, the rate of PrEP use per population was similar in Black and White populations but slightly lower among Hispanic populations. PnR increased from 2012 to 2021 for all races and ethnicities and regions; levels of PrEP use were inconsistent across regions and highly inequitable by race, ethnicity, and sex. In all regions, PnR was highest for White and lowest for Black people. Inequity in PrEP use by race and ethnicity, as measured by the PER, grew early after availability of PrEP and persisted at a level substantially below equitable PrEP use. Interpretation From 2012 to 2021, PrEP use increased among Americans, but PrEP equity for Black and Hispanic Americans decreased. The US South lagged all regions in equitable PrEP use. Improved equity in PrEP use will be not only just, but also impactful on the US HIV epidemic; persons most at-risk of acquiring HIV should have the highest levels of access to PrEP. Prevention programs should be guided by PrEP equity, not PrEP equality. Funding National Institutes of Health, Gilead Sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amanda D. Castel
- The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Karen W. Hoover
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Jodie L. Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gordon Le
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shamaya Whitby
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Cole SW, Glick JL, Campoamor NB, Sanchez TH, Sarkar S, Vannappagari V, Rinehart A, Rawlings K, Sullivan PS, Bridges JFP. Willingness and preferences for long-acting injectable PrEP among US men who have sex with men: a discrete choice experiment. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083837. [PMID: 38653510 PMCID: PMC11043728 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083837] [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: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cabotegravir long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (LA-PrEP) was shown to be safe and effective in multiple clinical trials. Increasing uptake and persistence among populations with elevated risk for HIV acquisition, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM), is critical to HIV prevention. OBJECTIVE This analysis aims to understand potential users' preferences for LA-PrEP, with audience segmentation. DESIGN Willingness to use and preferences for LA-PrEP were measured in HIV-negative, sexually active MSM in the 2020 American Men's Internet Survey. Respondents answered a discrete choice experiment with paired profiles of hypothetical LA-PrEP characteristics with an opt-out option (no LA-PrEP). Conditional and mixed logit models were run; the final model was a dummy-coded mixed logit that interacted with the opt-out. SETTING US national online sample. RESULTS Among 2506 MSM respondents, most (75%) indicated a willingness to use LA-PrEP versus daily oral PrEP versus no PrEP. Respondents were averse to side effects and increasing costs and preferred increasing levels of protection. Respondents preferred a 2-hour time to obtain LA-PrEP vs 1 hour, with a strong aversion to 3 hours. Overall, there was an aversion to opting out of LA-PrEP, with variations: those with only one partner, no/other insurance or who were Black, Indigenous or People of Colour were significantly less likely to prefer LA-PrEP, while those who were Hispanic/Latino, college educated and <40 years significantly preferred LA-PrEP. CONCLUSIONS A large proportion of MSM expressed a preference for LA-PrEP over daily oral pills. Most respondents chose LA-PrEP regardless of cost, clinic time, side effects or protection level; however, preferences varied by sociodemographics. These varied groups likely require tailored intervention strategies to achieve maximum LA-PrEP uptake and persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Wilson Cole
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Query Research Consulting, Glen Burnie, Maryland, USA
| | - Jennifer L Glick
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Community Health Science & Policy (CHSP), Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Nicola B Campoamor
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Epidemiology, Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Epidemiology, Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - John F P Bridges
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Bauermeister JA, Horvath KJ, Lin WY, Golinkoff JM, Claude KF, Dowshen N, Castillo M, Sullivan PS, Paul M, Hightow-Weidman L, Stephenson R. Enhancing routine HIV and STI testing among young men who have sex with men: primary outcomes of the get connected clinical randomized trial (ATN 139). BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1072. [PMID: 38632603 PMCID: PMC11025185 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18522-w] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular HIV and STI testing remain a cornerstone of comprehensive sexual health care. In this study, we examine the efficacy of Get Connected, a WebApp that combines test locators with personalized educational resources, in motivating young men who have sex with men (YMSM) to undergo regular HIV and STI testing. METHODS Participants were randomly placed in one of two conditions. The first condition included the full version of GC (GC-PLUS), which included content tailored to users' psychosocial characteristics (e.g., age, race/ethnicity, relationship status, HIV/STI testing history). The second condition served as our attention-control and only included the testing locator (GC-TLO) for HIV/STI testing services. Participants were recruited from three cities (Houston, Philadelphia, and Atlanta) characterized by high HIV incidence. Assessments were collected at 1, 3-, 6-, 9- and 12-month follow-ups. RESULTS Both versions of GC were acceptable and efficacious in increasing routine HIV and STI testing over a 12-month period. 40% of the sample reported testing at least twice, with no main effects observed across the two intervention arms (OR = 1.11; 95% CI: 0.69, 1.80), p =.66). Greater intervention effects were observed among YMSM who engaged more frequently with the intervention, with regional differences observed. CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the need to cater to the diverse needs of YMSM through multilevel approaches. Broadly, mHealth HIV/STI testing interventions, such as Get Connected, would benefit from matching technologies to the local context to have the greatest impact. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03132415).
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Bauermeister
- University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Room 222L, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - K J Horvath
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - W Y Lin
- University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Room 222L, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J M Golinkoff
- University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Room 222L, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - K F Claude
- Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - N Dowshen
- University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd, Room 222L, 19104, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - M Castillo
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - M Paul
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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McCormick CD, Sullivan PS, Qato DM, Crawford SY, Schumock GT, Lee TA. Adherence and persistence of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use in the United States. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2024; 33:e5729. [PMID: 37937883 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5729] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe medication adherence and persistence of HIV PrEP overall and compare between sex and age groups of commercially insured individuals in the United States. METHODS We conducted a national retrospective cohort study of the Merative MarketScan Claims Database from 2011 to 2019 to describe adherence and persistence of PrEP overall and compared between sex and age groups. High adherence was defined as ≥80% of proportion of days covered and persistence was measured in days from initiation to the first day of a 60-day treatment gap. RESULTS A total of 29 689 new PrEP users identified. Overall adherence was high (81.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 81.5%-82.3%). Females were more adherent than males (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.87; 95% CI: 1.50-2.34), while those ≥45-years were less adherent than individuals <45-years (aOR 0.87: 95% CI: 0.81-0.93). More than half of individuals discontinued therapy within the first year (median 238.0 days; interquartile range 99.0-507.0 days). Females were less persistent than males (hazard ratio [HR] 1.49; 95% CI: 1.34-1.65), and people ≥45-years old were more persistent (i.e., lower risk of discontinuation) than those <45-years (HR 0.43; 95% CI: 0.33-0.55). CONCLUSIONS These findings show adherence to daily PrEP is high among commercially insured individuals but the majority still discontinue in the first year. Future research should investigate what factors influence PrEP discontinuation among this population and ways to reduce barriers to therapy maintenance to ensure the population-level benefits of PrEP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carter D McCormick
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dima M Qato
- Program on Medicines and Public Health, Titus Family Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy, Los Angeles, California, USA
- USC Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Y Crawford
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Glen T Schumock
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Todd A Lee
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Sanchez T, Hall E, Siegler AJ, Prakash-Asrani R, Bradley H, Fahimi M, Lopman B, Luisi N, Nelson KN, Sailey C, Shioda K, Valentine-Graves M, Sullivan PS. Prevalence of COVID-19 Mitigation Behaviors in US Adults (August-December 2020): Nationwide Household Probability Survey. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e37102. [PMID: 38055314 PMCID: PMC10702689 DOI: 10.2196/37102] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 mitigation behaviors, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing hand hygiene, have been and will remain vital to slowing the pandemic. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the period prevalence of consistent mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene practices during the peak of COVID-19 incidence (August-December 2020) and just before COVID-19 vaccine availability, overall and in demographic subgroups. METHODS We used baseline survey data from a nationwide household probability sample to generate weighted estimates of mitigation behaviors: wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing hand hygiene. Weighted logistic regression explored differences in mitigation behaviors by demographics. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified patterns in mitigation behaviors. RESULTS Among 4654 participants, most (n=2727, 58.6%) were female, were non-Hispanic White (n=3063, 65.8%), were aged 55 years or older (n=2099, 45.1%), lived in the South (n=2275, 48.9%), lived in metropolitan areas (n=4186, 89.9%), had at least a bachelor's degree (n=2547, 54.7%), had an income of US $50,000-$99,000 (n=1445, 31%), and were privately insured (n=2734, 58.7%). The period prevalence of consistent mask wearing was 71.1% (sample-weighted 95% CI 68.8-73.3); consistent social distancing, 42.9% (95% CI 40.5-45.3); frequent handwashing, 55.0% (95% CI 52.3-57.7); and frequent hand sanitizing, 21.5% (95% CI 19.4-23.8). Mitigation behaviors were more prevalent among women, older persons, Black or Hispanic persons, those who were not college graduates, and service-oriented workers. LCA identified an optimal-mitigation class that consistently practiced all behaviors (n=2656, 67% of US adults), a low-mitigation class that inconsistently practiced all behaviors (n=771, 20.6%), and a class that had optimal masking and social distancing but a high frequency of hand hygiene (n=463, 12.4%). CONCLUSIONS Despite a high prevalence of COVID-19 mitigation behaviors, there were likely millions who did not consistently practice these behaviors during the time of the highest COVID-19 incidence. In future infectious disease outbreak responses, public health authorities should also consider addressing disparities in mitigation practices through more targeted prevention messaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Sanchez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Eric Hall
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Heather Bradley
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Benjamin Lopman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kristin N Nelson
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Kayoko Shioda
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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McCormick CD, Sullivan PS, Qato DM, Crawford SY, Schumock GT, Lee TA. Trends of nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis in the United States. AIDS 2023; 37:2223-2232. [PMID: 37650765 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003701] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe national annual rates of nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) in the United States. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of commercially insured individuals in the Merative MarketScan Database from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2019. METHODS Patients at least 13 years old prescribed nPEP per recommended Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines were identified using pharmacy claims. Rates of use were described overall and stratified by sex, age group, and region. These rates were qualitatively compared to the diagnosis rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) observed in the data. Joinpoint analysis identified inflection points of nPEP use. RESULTS Eleven thousand, three hundred and ninety-seven nPEP users were identified, with a mean age of 33.7 years. Most were males (64.6%) and lived in the south (33.2%) and northeast (32.4%). The rate of nPEP use increased 515%, from 1.42 nPEP users per 100 000 enrollees in 2010 to 8.71 nPEP users per 10 000 enrollees in 2019. The comparative nPEP use rates among subgroups largely mirrored their HIV diagnosis rates, that is, subgroups with a higher HIV rate had higher nPEP use. In the Joinpoint analysis significant growth was observed from 2012 to 2015 [estimated annual percentage change (EAPC): 45.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 29.4 - 64.3] followed by a more moderate increase from 2015 to 2019 (EAPC 16.0%; 95% CI: 12.6-19.6). CONCLUSIONS nPEP use increased from 2010 to 2019, but not equally across all risk groups. Further policy interventions should be developed to reduce barriers and ensure adequate access to this important HIV prevention tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carter D McCormick
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Dima M Qato
- Program on Medicines and Public Health, Titus Family Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy
- USC Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Y Crawford
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Glen T Schumock
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Todd A Lee
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois
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Zang X, Piske M, Humphrey L, Enns B, Sui Y, Marshall BDL, Goedel WC, Feaster DJ, Metsch LR, Sullivan PS, Tookes HE, Nosyk B. Estimating the epidemiological impact of reaching the objectives of the Florida integrated HIV prevention and care plan in Miami-Dade County. Lancet Reg Health Am 2023; 27:100623. [PMID: 37928440 PMCID: PMC10624567 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100623] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The US Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative aims to reduce national HIV incidence 90% by 2030 and to address the disproportionate burden of HIV among different racial/ethnic populations. Florida's state-wide 2022-2026 Integrated HIV Prevention and Care Plan outlines objectives for reaching EHE goals. In Miami-Dade County, we determined the epidemiological impact of achieving the integrated plan's objectives individually and jointly. Methods We adapted an HIV transmission model calibrated to Miami-Dade County adjusting access to HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and antiretroviral treatment to model the effects of each objective between 2022 and 2030. We compared two service scale-up approaches: (a) scale-up proportionally to existing racial/ethnic group access levels, and (b) scale-up according to new diagnoses across racial/ethnic groups (equity-oriented). We estimated reductions in new HIV infections by each objective and approach, compared to the EHE's incidence reduction target. Findings The single most influential strategy was reducing new HIV diagnoses in Hispanic/Latinx men who have sex with men through increased PrEP uptake, resulting in 907/2444 (37.1%) fewer annual new HIV infections in 2030. Achieving all objectives jointly would result in 1537/2444 (62.9%) and 1553/2444 (63.5%) fewer annual new HIV infections with the proportional and equity-oriented approaches, respectively. Interpretation Achieving the goals of Florida's integrated care plan would significantly reduce HIV incidence in Miami-Dade County; however, further efforts are required to achieve EHE targets. Structural changes in service delivery and a focus on effective implementation of available interventions to address racial/ethnic disparities will be crucial to ending the HIV epidemic. Funding This work was supported by the National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Drug Abuse grant no. R01-DA041747.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Zang
- Division of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, A302 Mayo Building, MMC 729, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Micah Piske
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, 570-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z1Y6, Canada
| | - Lia Humphrey
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, 570-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z1Y6, Canada
| | - Benjamin Enns
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, 570-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z1Y6, Canada
| | - Yi Sui
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, 570-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z1Y6, Canada
| | - Brandon D L Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - William C Goedel
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Leonard M Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, CRB 919, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Lisa R Metsch
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd, NE Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1611 NW 12th Ave, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, 570-1081 Burrard Street, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, V6Z1Y6, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, Room 11300, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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Clausen A, Stephenson RB, Sullivan PS, Edwards OW, Merrill L, Acero Martinez C, Jones J. Distance as a barrier to HIV testing among sexual and gender minority populations in the rural southern US: a cross-sectional study. Rural Remote Health 2023; 23:8227. [PMID: 37988704 DOI: 10.22605/rrh8227] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual and gender minority people who live in rural areas are less likely to have had a HIV test in the previous 12 months compared with those who live in non-rural areas. We assessed the independent contribution of distance and time required to travel to receive a HIV test on recent uptake of HIV testing. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey of sexual and gender minority populations in the southern US. We used Poisson regression with robust standard errors to estimate prevalence ratios to compare uptake of HIV testing in the previous 12 months among those who traveled more than 20 miles (~32 km) and more than 30 minutes to their most recent HIV test compared with those who traveled less distance and time to their most recent test, respectively. RESULTS A total of 508 (n=155 rural, n=348 non-rural) participants completed the survey. Of these, 398 (78.5%) had received a HIV test in the previous 12 months. Those who traveled more than 20 miles (~32 km) to their most recent test were more likely to have not received a HIV test in the previous 12 months compared with those who traveled 20 miles (~32 km) or less (adjusted prevalence ratio 2.25; 95% confidence interval 1.22-4.17). There were no differences based on travel time to the most recent test. CONCLUSION Distance, but not time, to travel to receive a HIV test is independently associated with reduced HIV testing. More geographically proximal options or access to home-based testing might reduce this barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Clausen
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob B Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Leland Merrill
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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9
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Brown CA, Siegler AJ, Zahn RJ, Valencia RK, Sanchez T, Kramer MR, Phaswana-Mafuya NR, Stephenson R, Bekker LG, Baral SD, Sullivan PS. Assessing the association of stigma and HIV service and prevention uptake among men who have sex with men and transgender women in South Africa. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1497-1507. [PMID: 36755403 PMCID: PMC10406969 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2175770] [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: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
HIV prevention for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and transgender women (TGW) is critical to reducing health disparities and population HIV prevalence. To understand if different types of stigma impact engagement with HIV prevention services, we assessed associations between stigmas and use of HIV prevention services offered through an HIV prevention intervention. This analysis included 201 GBMSM and TGW enrolled in a prospective cohort offering a package of HIV prevention interventions. Participants completed a baseline survey that included four domains of sexual identity/behavior stigma, HIV-related stigma, and healthcare stigma. Impact of stigma on PrEP uptake and the number of drop-in visits was assessed. No domain of stigma was associated with PrEP uptake. In bivariate analysis, increased enacted sexual identity stigma increased number of drop-in visits. In a logistic regression analysis constrained to sexual identity stigma, enacted stigma was associated with increased drop-in visits (aIRR = 1.30, [95% CI: 1.02, 1.65]). Participants reporting higher enacted stigma were modestly more likely to attend additional services and have contact with the study clinics and staff. GBMSM and TGW with higher levels of enacted stigma may seek out sensitized care after negative experiences in their communities or other healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Brown
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
- ViiV Healthcare, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ryan J Zahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rachel K Valencia
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael R Kramer
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nancy Refilwe Phaswana-Mafuya
- SAMRC/JJ Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research (PACER) Extramural Unit; Department of Environmental Health, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Luan H, Li G, Duncan DT, Sullivan PS, Ransome Y. Spatial accessibility of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): different measure choices and the implications for detecting shortage areas and examining its association with social determinants of health. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 86:72-79.e3. [PMID: 37453464 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.07.004] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We examine how various pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) accessibility measures impact the detection of PrEP shortage areas and the relation of shortage areas to social determinants of health (SDOH). METHODS Using ZIP Code Tabulation Areas (ZCTAs) in New York City as a case study, we compared 25 measures of spatial PrEP accessibility across four categories, including density, proximity, two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA), and Gaussian 2SFCA (G2SFCA). Bayesian spatial regression models were used to examine how PrEP accessibility is associated with SDOH. RESULTS Using density to measure PrEP accessibility for small areas such as ZCTAs poses challenges to statistical modeling because the measured accessibility values are highly skewed with excess zeros, leading to the necessity of using complex models such as the two-part mixture model. When G2SFCA measures are used, which account for distance decay effects and the competition from the PrEP demand side, findings on PrEP shortage area detection and the association between PrEP accessibility and SDOH were more consistent and less sensitive to spatial scales (i.e., varying from 10- to 30-minute driving). CONCLUSIONS This research adds to the nascent research on PrEP accessibility measurement and sheds light on selecting an appropriate measure to assess spatial disparities in PrEP accessibility and its associations with SDOH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Luan
- Department of Geography, University of Oregon, Eugene.
| | - Guangquan Li
- Department of Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT
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Jones J, Butler G, Woody M, Castel AD, Kulie P, Sheets M, Scheim AI, Reisner SL, Valencia R, Wang M, Stekler JD, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R. Preferences for and Experiences of an HIV-Prevention Mobile App Designed for Transmasculine People: Pilot Feasibility Trial and Qualitative Investigation. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e51055. [PMID: 37733430 PMCID: PMC10557014 DOI: 10.2196/51055] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmasculine people are at risk for HIV; yet few HIV prevention interventions have been developed for this population. We adapted an existing HIV prevention smartphone app for cisgender men who have sex with men to meet the sexual health needs of transmasculine people. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the acceptability of the adapted app, Transpire, among transmasculine people living in Atlanta, Georgia, and Washington, DC, via in-depth interviews of participants in a pilot feasibility trial. METHODS Participants used the Transpire app for 3 months as part of a pilot study of the app. Eligible participants were aged 18-34 years. There were no eligibility criteria with respect to race and ethnicity, and most participants were non-Hispanic White. At the end of the follow-up, participants were invited to participate in web-based in-depth interviews to discuss their experiences using the app and feedback on design and content. Interviews were transcribed and coded using a constant comparative approach. Three main themes were identified: sexual behavior, app experiences and feedback, and pre-exposure prophylaxis. RESULTS Overall, participants found the app acceptable and thought that it would be a useful tool for themselves and their peers. Participants reported appreciating having a comprehensive information source available to them on their phones and reported learning more about HIV, sexually transmitted infections, and pre-exposure prophylaxis via the app. They also reported appreciating the inclusive language that was used throughout the app. Although the app included some resources on mental health and substance use, participants reported that they would have appreciated more resources and information in these areas as well as more comprehensive information about other health concerns, including hormone therapy. Representative quotes are presented for each of the identified themes. CONCLUSIONS There is a desire to have greater access to reliable sexual health information among transmasculine people. Mobile apps like Transpire are an acceptable intervention to increase access to this information and other resources. More evidence is needed, however, from more racially and ethnically diverse samples of transmasculine people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gareth Butler
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Meaghan Woody
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Amanda D Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, DC, United States
| | - Paige Kulie
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, DC, DC, United States
| | - Martha Sheets
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rachel Valencia
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Minglun Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joanne D Stekler
- Division of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems Populations, and Leadership, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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12
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Sharpe JD, Siegler AJ, Sanchez TH, Guest JL, Sullivan PS. Effects of mode of transportation on PrEP persistence among urban men who have sex with men. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1411-1419. [PMID: 37232114 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2217375] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the effect of travel-related factors, such as mode of transportation, on retention in PrEP care, or PrEP persistence. We used data from the 2020 American Men's Internet Survey and conducted multilevel logistic regression to estimate the association between mode of transportation used for healthcare access and PrEP persistence among urban gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S. MSM using public transportation were less likely to report PrEP persistence (aOR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.28-0.95) than MSM using private transportation. There were no significant associations between PrEP persistence and using active transportation (aOR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.35-1.29) or multimodal transportation (aOR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.51-1.43) compared to using private transportation. Transportation-related interventions and policies are needed to address structural barriers to accessing PrEP services and to improve PrEP persistence in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jodie L Guest
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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13
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Wien S, Guest JL, Luisi N, Taussig J, Kramer MR, Stephenson R, Millett G, del Rio C, Sullivan PS. Racial differences in the association of undetectable HIV viral load and transportation to an HIV provider among men who have sex with men in Atlanta, Georgia: a health equity perspective. AIDS Care 2023; 35:1154-1163. [PMID: 36878481 PMCID: PMC10426396 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2182871] [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: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
There are inequities in HIV outcomes among Black gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority men who have sex with men (GBMSM) compared to GBMSM overall, including access to transportation to HIV care. It is unclear if the relationship between transportation and clinical outcomes extends to viral load. We assessed the relationship between transportation dependence to an HIV provider and undetectable viral load among Black and White GBMSM in Atlanta. We collected transportation and viral load information from GBMSM with HIV from 2016-2017 (n = 345). More Black than White GBMSM had a detectable viral load (25% vs. 15%) and took dependent (e.g. public) transportation (37% vs. 18%). Independent (e.g. car) transportation was associated with undetectable viral load for White GBMSM (cOR 3.61, 95% CI 1.45, 8.97) but was attenuated by income (aOR. 2.29, 95% CI 0.78, 6.71), and not associated for Black GBMSM (cOR 1.18, 95% CI 0.58, 2.24). One possible explanation for no association for Black GBMSM is that there are more competing barriers to HIV care for Black GBMSM than White GBMSM. Further investigation is needed to confirm whether 1) transportation is unimportant for Black GBMSM or 2) transportation interacts with additional factors not considered in this analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Wien
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer Taussig
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael R. Kramer
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations, and Leadership, School of Nursing, and the Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Greg Millett
- American Foundation for AIDS Research, Washington DC, USA
| | - Carlos del Rio
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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14
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Gamarel KE, Darbes LA, Wall KM, Jones J, Washington C, Rosso M, Felder Claude K, Hightow-Weidman LB, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R. A Relationship-Focused HIV Prevention Intervention for Young Sexual Minority Men in the United States: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the We Prevent Intervention. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2703-2719. [PMID: 36781618 PMCID: PMC9924851 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03994-5] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
We Prevent is a virtual counseling intervention designed to improve communication as a mechanism for reducing HIV risk among young sexual minority men (SMM) in relationships. We evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of We Prevent in comparison to standard Counseling, Testing, and Referral among a national sample of 318 SMM ages 15-24 in a pilot randomized control trial. We found significant differences in condomless sex with outside partners; however, there were no differences in other sexual behaviors, sexual agreements, intimate partner violence (IPV), or communication between the conditions across the 9-month follow-ups. Stratified analyses found non-significant trends suggestive that We Prevent may reduce condomless sex for those ages 15-17 and for relationships over 1-year and may reduce IPV in relationships over 1-year. Though study retention was adequate, session attendance was low. Exit interviews participants reported benefits of We Prevent and provided insights into how to increase uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Lynae A Darbes
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kristin M Wall
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Catherine Washington
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Matthew Rosso
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University College of Nursing, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Kristina Felder Claude
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University College of Nursing, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Lisa B Hightow-Weidman
- Institute on Digital Health and Innovation, Florida State University College of Nursing, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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15
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Van Gerwen OT, Austin EL, Bethune CW, Sullivan PS, Muzny CA. Sexual healthcare and at-home STI test collection: attitudes and preferences of transgender women in the Southeastern United States. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1187206. [PMID: 37325308 PMCID: PMC10264611 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1187206] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) disproportionally affect transgender women in the United States, particularly in the Southeast where rates of HIV and bacterial STIs are especially high. Despite the high HIV/STI burden among transgender women, their engagement in sexual healthcare services, including HIV/STI testing, is low. Understanding reasons for this disconnect is essential in developing HIV/STI prevention efforts for this population, especially in the Southeastern US, where access to affirming sexual healthcare providers and resources is limited. We aimed to perform an exploratory qualitative study to describe the attitudes and preferences of transgender women living in Alabama with regards to sexual healthcare and at-home STI test collection. Methods Transgender women ≥18 years old residing in Alabama were invited to participate in virtual individual in-depth interviews via Zoom. The interview guide explored participant experiences engaging with sexual healthcare services as well as preferences related to extragenital (i.e., rectal, pharyngeal) and at-home STI testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia. A trained qualitative researcher coded transcripts after each interview and iteratively amended the interview guide as themes emerged. Data were coded and thematically analyzed using NVivo qualitative software. Results Between June 2021-April 2022, 22 transgender women were screened and 14 eligible women enrolled. Eight participants were white (57%), and six were black (43%). Five participants (36%) were living with HIV and engaged with HIV care services. Interview themes included preference for sexual healthcare environments specializing in LGBTQ+ care, enthusiasm toward at-home STI testing, an emphasis on affirming patient-provider interactions in sexual healthcare settings, a preference for sexual healthcare providers involved in STI testing who were not cisgender men, and gender dysphoria around sexual health discussions and testing. Conclusion Transgender women in the Southeastern US prioritize affirming provider-patient interactions, however resources in the region are limited. Participants were enthusiastic about at-home STI testing options, which have the potential to mitigate gender dysphoria. Further investigation into development of remote sexual healthcare services for transgender women should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T. Van Gerwen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Erika L. Austin
- Department of Biostatistics, UAB School of Public Health, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Carly W. Bethune
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Christina A. Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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16
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McCormick CD, Sullivan PS, Qato DM, Crawford SY, Schumock GT, Lee TA. Adherence to HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Testing Guidelines in the United States. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023. [PMID: 37204299 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0062] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Testing guidelines for initiation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been developed to ensure appropriate use of PrEP, such as among those with renal dysfunction or at high risk of seroconversion. While many studies have looked at the trends of use of PrEP in the United States, little is known about compliance with these guidelines, the quality of care of PrEP at a national level, or what provider-level factors are associated with high-quality care. We conducted a retrospective claims analysis of providers of commercially insured new users of PrEP between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2019. Of the 4200 providers, quality of care was low, with only 6.4% having claims for ≥60% of guideline-recommended testing for their patients in the testing window for all visits. More than half of the providers did not have claims for HIV testing at initiation of PrEP and ≥40% did not for sexually transmitted infections at both initiation and follow-up visits. Even when extending the testing window, quality of care remained low. Logistic regression models found no association between provider type and high quality of care, but did find that providers with one PrEP patient were more likely to have higher quality of care than those with multiple patients for all tests [adjusted odds ratio 0.47 (95% confidence interval: 0.33-0.67)]. The study findings suggest further training and interventions, such as integrated test ordering through electronic health records, are needed to increase quality of care for PrEP and ensure appropriate monitoring of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carter D McCormick
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Dima M Qato
- Program on Medicines and Public Health, Titus Family Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy, Los Angeles, California, USA
- USC Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephanie Y Crawford
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Glen T Schumock
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Todd A Lee
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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17
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Mancuso N, Mansergh G, Stephenson R, Horvath KJ, Hirshfield S, Bauermeister JA, Chiasson MA, Downing MJ, Sullivan PS. Factors associated with mobile app-based ordering of HIV self-test kits among men who have sex with men in Atlanta, Detroit and New York City: an exploratory secondary analysis of a randomized control trial. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26100. [PMID: 37221941 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26100] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends HIV screening at least annually among sexually active gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM), but only half report being tested in the past year in the United States. As HIV self-test kits are becoming more available around the United States via web and app-based interventions, it is important to understand who is willing and able to order them. This analysis sought to better understand predictors of free HIV self-test kit utilization among MSM in M-cubed, an HIV prevention mobile app intervention trial in Atlanta, Detroit and New York City. METHODS We conducted an exploratory secondary analysis of self-report and in-app data collected from the intervention arm of the M-Cubed study from 24 January 2018 to 31 October 2019. Behavioural, demographic and other potential predictors of HIV self-test ordering were identified from Social Cognitive Theoretical underpinnings of the app, and from the literature. Significant predictor variables in bivariate analyses were considered for inclusion in the empiric multivariable model. Demographic variables chosen a priori were then added to a final model estimating adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR). RESULTS Over half of the 417 intervention participants ordered an HIV self-test kit during the study. In bivariate analyses, ordering a kit was associated with HIV testing history, plans to get tested and reported likelihood of getting tested. In the final model, participants were more likely to order a kit if they reported plans to get tested in the next 3 months (aPR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.18-2.11) or had not tested for HIV in the past 3 months (aPR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.13-1.70). There was no difference in HIV self-test kit ordering by income, race/ethnicity or age. CONCLUSIONS HIV testing is an important tool in ending the HIV epidemic and must be accessible and frequent for key populations. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of HIV self-test kits in reaching populations with suboptimal testing rates and shows that self-testing may supplement community-based and clinical testing while helping overcome some of the structural barriers that limit access to annual HIV prevention services for MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Mancuso
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gordon Mansergh
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- STAR Program, Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Jose A Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health and Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Martin J Downing
- Department of Psychology, Lehman College, CUNY, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Luisi N, Sullivan PS, Sanchez T, Bradley H, Fahimi M, Shioda K, Nelson KN, Lopman BA, Siegler AJ. Use of COVIDTests.gov At-Home Test Kits Among Adults in a National Household Probability Sample - United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023; 72:445-449. [PMID: 37079516 PMCID: PMC10121268 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7216a6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
At-home rapid antigen COVID-19 tests were first authorized by the Food and Drug Administration in late 2020 (1-3). In January 2022, the White House launched COVIDTests.gov, which made all U.S. households eligible to receive free-to-the-user at-home test kits distributed by the U.S. Postal Service (2). By May 2022, more than 70 million test kit packages had been shipped to households across the United States (2); however, how these kits were used, and which groups were using them, has not been reported. Data from a national probability survey of U.S. households (COVIDVu), collected during April-May 2022, were used to evaluate awareness about and use of these test kits (4). Most respondent households (93.8%) were aware of the program, and more than one half (59.9%) had ordered kits. Among persons who received testing for COVID-19 during the preceding 6 months, 38.3% used a COVIDTests.gov kit. Among kit users, 95.5% rated the experience as acceptable, and 23.6% reported being unlikely to have tested without the COVIDTests.gov program. Use of COVIDTests.gov kits was similar among racial and ethnic groups (42.1% non-Hispanic Black or African American [Black]; 41.5% Hispanic or Latino [Hispanic]; 34.8% non-Hispanic White [White]; and 53.7% non-Hispanic other races [other races]). Use of other home COVID-19 tests differed by race and ethnicity (11.8% Black, 44.4% Hispanic, 45.8% White, 43.8% other races). Compared with White persons, Black persons were 72% less likely to use other home test kits (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 0.28; 95% CI = 0.16-0.50). Provision of tests through this well-publicized program likely improved use of COVID-19 home testing and health equity in the United States, particularly among Black persons. National programs to address availability and accessibility of critical health services in a pandemic response have substantial health value.
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Schoenberg P, Edwards OW, Merrill L, Martinez CA, Stephenson R, Sullivan PS, Jones J. Willingness to use and preferences for long-acting injectable PrEP among sexual and gender minority populations in the southern United States, 2021-2022: cross-sectional study. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26077. [PMID: 36951057 PMCID: PMC10034617 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26077] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Long-acting injectable (LAI) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2021. LAI PrEP is more effective than oral PrEP. However, it is not clear whether the groups most at risk of HIV in the United States will use LAI PrEP. Willingness to use LAI PrEP and preference for LAI versus oral PrEP has not been reported for sexual and gender minority (SGM) people in the southern United States, where the HIV epidemic is concentrated. Our goal was to assess willingness to use LAI PrEP and preference for oral versus LAI PrEP among SGM people in the southern United States and to assess differences in willingness by demographics and sexual behaviour. METHODS We conducted an online, cross-sectional survey of SGM people aged 15-34 years in the southern United States (n = 583). Participants reported willingness to use LAI PrEP and preferences for LAI PrEP versus daily oral PrEP. We assessed bivariate associations and adjusted prevalence ratios for the LAI-PrEP-related outcomes and key demographic and behavioural characteristics. RESULTS Overall, 68% of all participants (n = 393) reported being willing to use LAI PrEP that provides protection against HIV for 3 months. Of those, most (n = 320, 81%) indicated a preference for using LAI PrEP, compared to a daily oral pill or no preference. Willingness to use LAI PrEP was more common among transgender and non-binary participants and participants who engaged in condomless anal intercourse in the last 6 months. Hispanic participants were more likely and non-Hispanic Black participants were less likely to report willingness to use LAI PrEP compared to non-Hispanic White participants. CONCLUSIONS Willingness to use LAI PrEP was high among SGM people in the southern United States, although there were some important differences in willingness based on demographic characteristics. Decreased willingness to use LAI PrEP among groups who are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic, such as non-Hispanic Black SGM people, could exacerbate existing disparities in HIV incidence. LAI PrEP is an acceptable option among SGM populations in the southern United States, but strategies will be needed to ensure equitable implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige Schoenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Leland Merrill
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Gurley SA, Stupp PW, Fellows IE, Parekh BS, Young PW, Shiraishi RW, Sullivan PS, Voetsch AC. Estimation of HIV-1 Incidence Using a Testing History-Based Method; Analysis From the Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment Survey Data in 12 African Countries. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 92:189-196. [PMID: 36730779 PMCID: PMC9911103 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimating HIV incidence is essential to monitoring progress in sub-Saharan African nations toward global epidemic control. One method for incidence estimation is to test nationally representative samples using laboratory-based incidence assays. An alternative method based on reported HIV testing history and the proportion of undiagnosed infections has recently been described. METHODS We applied an HIV incidence estimation method which uses history of testing to nationally representative cross-sectional survey data from 12 sub-Saharan African nations with varying country-specific HIV prevalence. We compared these estimates with those derived from laboratory-based incidence assays. Participants were tested for HIV using the national rapid test algorithm and asked about prior HIV testing, date and result of their most recent test, and date of antiretroviral therapy initiation. RESULTS The testing history-based method consistently produced results that are comparable and strongly correlated with estimates produced using a laboratory-based HIV incidence assay (ρ = 0.85). The testing history-based method produced incidence estimates that were more precise compared with the biomarker-based method. The testing history-based method identified sex-, age-, and geographic location-specific differences in incidence that were not detected using the biomarker-based method. CONCLUSIONS The testing history-based method estimates are more precise and can produce age-specific and sex-specific incidence estimates that are informative for programmatic decisions. The method also allows for comparisons of the HIV transmission rate and other components of HIV incidence among and within countries. The testing history-based method is a useful tool for estimating and validating HIV incidence from cross-sectional survey data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A. Gurley
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Paul W. Stupp
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Ian E. Fellows
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
- Fellows Statistics Inc., San Diego, CA; and
| | - Bharat S. Parekh
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Peter W. Young
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
- Division of Global HIV & TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Ray W. Shiraishi
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Andrew C. Voetsch
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
- Division of Global HIV&TB, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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21
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Mann LM, Sanchez T, Stephenson R, Sullivan PS, Jenness SM. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Behavior and HIV Prevention and Treatment Services Among U.S. Men Who Have Sex With Men in the Post-Lockdown Era. Am J Mens Health 2023; 17:15579883231168602. [PMID: 37081746 PMCID: PMC10119652 DOI: 10.1177/15579883231168602] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions to sexual health services and changes to sexual behavior due to the first COVID-19 lockdowns were common among U.S. gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Less is known about the persistence of these changes after this initial lockdown period. These changes have long-term implications for HIV prevention for current and future pandemic periods. This study collected information on COVID-related impacts on sexual behavior and HIV-related health service disruptions from a cohort of U.S. GBMSM at three time points during the COVID-19 pandemic. We observed that COVID-related disruptions to sexual behavior continued from early lockdown periods through December 2020. Although early interruptions to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) access resolved in later 2020 and interruptions to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence were minimal, extended disruptions were observed in HIV testing, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, HIV care clinical visits, and HIV viral load testing. Although sexual behavior did not return to prepandemic levels in late 2020, the reduced access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services during this period could result in an overall increased HIV transmission rate, with long-term impacts to the trajectory of the U.S. HIV epidemic. Additional resources and programs are needed to address challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as prepare for future potential pandemics and other disruptive events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Mann
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations, and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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22
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Jones J, Jenness SM, Le Guillou A, Sullivan PS, Gift TL, Delaney KP, Chesson H. Estimated Number of Incident HIV Infections in Men Who Have Sex With Men Attributable to Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, Per Gonococcal or Chlamydial Infection, in the United States. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:83-85. [PMID: 36630415 PMCID: PMC10753989 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001724] [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] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Using a network model, we simulated transmission of HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia among men who have sex with men to estimate the number of HIV infections that can be attributed to gonorrhea and chlamydia, per gonococcal and chlamydial infection. This metric can inform future modeling and health economic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Samuel M. Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Adrien Le Guillou
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Thomas L. Gift
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Kevin P. Delaney
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Harrell Chesson
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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23
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Huang W, Dove-Medows E, Shealey J, Sanchez K, Benson L, Seymore DD, Sullivan PS, Bradley HM, Siegler AJ. COVID-19 vaccine attitudes among a majority black sample in the Southern US: public health implications from a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:88. [PMID: 36631819 PMCID: PMC9834032 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14905-z] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have high caseloads in the US, with vaccines a critical component of the response. Disparities in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality have been identified across states and racial/ethnic groups, which are likely in part due to disparities in COVID-19 vaccine uptake. This study aims to better understand and contextualize COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among persons from under-represented racial/ethnic populations in the Southern US. METHODS We conducted 29 in-depth interviews with a sample of households in Atlanta, GA that were selected from an address-based sampling frame. We purposively approached households, from February 6 to June 27, 2021, that declined participation in a national COVID-19 serosurvey to gain perspectives of people who are often under-represented in research. Interviews were conducted in-person or over phone calls for participants with that preference. Thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and facilitators of COVID-19 vaccination, and to contextualize drivers of vaccine hesitancy. RESULTS Decision-making about vaccination was described as dynamic, and was compared to the feeling of being on a roller coaster. The predominant reported sources of information were mass media and social media. Facilitators of vaccination included altruism, positive communication from trusted community members and workplace colleagues, and local vaccine provision sites. Driving reasons for vaccine hesitancy included limited trust in the government and concerns about COVID-19 vaccine safety, which one participant compared to jumping off a cliff without a tested rope. Among a subset of participants, beliefs regarding perceived intent to harm the Black community were prevalent. Opportunities to optimally address vaccine hesitancy included countering negative social media messages with positive messaging that matches the community's vivid ways of discussing vaccines, collaborating with community stakeholders on vaccine promotion efforts, and offering workplace-based vaccine promotion efforts. CONCLUSIONS This study presents data that indicate it may be optimal to more broadly define 'community' in COVID-19 vaccine promotion efforts to include social media and workplace venues. To optimize vaccine and vaccine booster uptake and equity, public health must address historic racism and other concerns by using outreach that is grounded in communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Huang
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Emily Dove-Medows
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Jalissa Shealey
- grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Katia Sanchez
- grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Lauren Benson
- grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - DawnSheska D. Seymore
- grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Heather M. Bradley
- grid.256304.60000 0004 1936 7400Department of Epidemiology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
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24
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Downing MJ, Wiatrek SE, Zahn RJ, Mansergh G, Olansky E, Gelaude D, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R, Siegler AJ, Bauermeister J, Horvath KJ, Chiasson MA, Yoon IS, Houang ST, Hernandez AJ, Hirshfield S. Video selection and assessment for an app-based HIV prevention messaging intervention: formative research. Mhealth 2023; 9:2. [PMID: 36760783 PMCID: PMC9902231 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-21-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) continue to be overrepresented in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the United States. HIV prevention and care interventions that are tailored to an individual's serostatus have the potential to lower the rate of new infections among GBMSM. Mobile technology is a critical tool for disseminating targeted messaging and increasing uptake of basic prevention services including HIV testing, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Mobile Messaging for Men (M-Cubed) is a mobile health HIV prevention intervention designed to deliver video- and text-based prevention messages, provide STI and HIV information, and link GBMSM to prevention and healthcare resources. The current report describes an iterative process of identifying and selecting publicly available videos to be used as part of the M-Cubed intervention. We also conducted interviews with GBMSM to assess the acceptability, comprehension, and potential audience reach of the selected video messages. METHODS The selection of videos included balancing of specific criteria [e.g., accuracy of scientific information, video length, prevention domains: HIV/STI testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART), PrEP, engagement in care, and condom use] to ensure that they were intended for our GBMSM audiences: HIV-negative men who engage in condomless anal sex, HIV-negative men who do not engage in condomless anal sex, and men living with HIV. This formative study included in-person interviews with 26 GBMSM from three U.S. cities heavily impacted by the HIV epidemic-New York City, Detroit, and Atlanta. RESULTS Following a qualitative content analysis, the study team identified five themes across the interviews: participant reactions to the video messages, message comprehension, PrEP concerns, targeting of video messaging, and prompted action. CONCLUSIONS Study results informed a final selection of 12 video messages for inclusion in a randomized controlled trial of M-Cubed. Findings may serve as a guide for researchers who plan to develop HIV prevention interventions that utilize publicly available videos to promote behavioral change. Further, the findings presented here suggest the importance of developing videos with broad age and gender diversity for use in interventions such as M-Cubed, and in other health promotion settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah E. Wiatrek
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ryan J. Zahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gordon Mansergh
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Deborah Gelaude
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing & The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - José Bauermeister
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keith J. Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mary Ann Chiasson
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Steven T. Houang
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anthony Jimenez Hernandez
- Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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25
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Sanchez T, Wilson Beckham S, Hannah MJ, Winslow Edwards O, Rawlings K, Rinehart AR, Sarkar S, Sullivan PS, Vannappagari V. 2089. Relative patient preferences for starting daily, on-demand, and long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among US men who have sex with men, 2021-2022. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022. [PMCID: PMC9752991 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac492.1711] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Daily oral (DO) HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) effectively prevents HIV acquisition, but few men who have sex with men (MSM) currently use it. Newer options, such as on-demand (OD) oral and long-acting injectable (LA) PrEP may improve uptake, but little is understood about relative preferences among these options in practical start scenarios. Preferences for starting various PrEP options were examined among a US nationwide online convenience sample of MSM age 15+ collected September 2021 to February 2022. Methods Participants reporting no prior HIV diagnosis were given brief descripitions of each PrEP option and were asked “If [PrEP option] were available from your local doctor and you could access it for free, would you go to your doctor in the next month to start [PrEP option]?” Those who said yes to multiple options were asked to rank them in order of preference. MSM currently taking DO PrEP were asked whether they would switch to OD or LA. Willingness to start LA was examined by age, race/ethnicity, insurance, and prior awareness of LA. Results Of 5585 MSM not currently using DO PrEP, 50% (n=2805) would start at least one option with greatest preference for OD (Figure 1). Among this group, 73% (n=2060) were willing to start more than one option, with LA the most preferred option. Among the 27% (n=745) who would start only one, OD was the most preferred. Overall, 58% of DO PrEP users (n=1342/2332) would switch to either OD or LA, with LA being most preferred (Figure 2). Hispanic MSM who were not DO PrEP users were more likely to start LA compared to white MSM, and those with other/multiple health insurance were less likely to start LA compared to those on private health insurance (Table 1). Regardless of current DO PrEP use, MSM aware of LA were more likely to start it. ![]() ![]() ![]()
Conclusion There is substantial interest in new PrEP options. Current DO PrEP users appear to be more aware of and interested in LA than PrEP naïve. Although OD PrEP may be favored by those who are PrEP-naïve, most selected multiple options and preferred LA PrEP. Increasing awareness of LA PrEP may bolster interest in its use. These findings highlight the potential role that newer PrEP options will play in community uptake of PrEP and can also inform patient-provider decisions about which PrEP options to consider. Disclosures Travis Sanchez, DVM, MPH, ViiV Healthcare: Grant/Research Support S. Wilson Beckham, PhD, MPH, MA, Viiv Healthcare: Advisor/Consultant Keith Rawlings, MD, ViiV Healthcare: Employee Alex R. Rinehart, PhD, ViiV Healthcare: Stocks/Bonds Supriya Sarkar, PhD, MPH, ViiV Healthcare: Salary|ViiV Healthcare: Stocks/Bonds Vani Vannappagari, MBBS, MPH, PhD, ViiV Healthcare: I am full time employee of ViiV Healthcare and receive GlaxoSmithKline stock as part of my compensation package|ViiV Healthcare: Stocks/Bonds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S Wilson Beckham
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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26
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Biello KB, Daddario SR, Hill-Rorie J, Futterman D, Sullivan PS, Hightow-Weidman L, Jones J, Mimiaga MJ, Mayer KH. Uptake and Acceptability of MyChoices: Results of a Pilot RCT of a Mobile App Designed to Increase HIV Testing and PrEP Uptake Among Young American MSM. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3981-3990. [PMID: 35829971 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03724-3] [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] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) remain at disproportionate risk for HIV acquisition in the United States (US), yet use of evidence-based prevention strategies, including routine HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), remain low. Smartphones and mobile app usage are nearly ubiquitous in this population. Given the potential for scalability, a mobile app to increase HIV testing and PrEP use among YMSM has the potential to make an extraordinary public health impact if efficacious. Based on extensive formative, community-engaged research, we developed a theory-driven mobile app-MyChoices-to increase HIV testing and PrEP uptake among YMSM. In a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT), participants (n = 60) were randomized 2:1 to receive MyChoices or standard of care (SOC). Data from 3 to 6-month post-baseline assessments demonstrate that the app was highly acceptable (System Usability Score; mean = 75.8, SD = 10.7) and feasible (94% used the MyChoices app at least once; mean = 15.3 sessions, SD = 9.8). While not powered to assess efficacy, those in the MyChoices arm had 22% higher prevalence of HIV testing over follow-up compared to those in the SOC arm (NS). There was no difference in PrEP uptake. A fully-powered efficacy trial is warranted; if efficacy is demonstrated, the MyChoices app could be easily scaled to reach YMSM across the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie B Biello
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Box G-S121-8, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Salvatore R Daddario
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Donna Futterman
- Adolescent AIDS Program, Children's Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center, The Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Global Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Global Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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27
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Jenness SM, Le Guillou A, Lyles C, Bernstein KT, Krupinsky K, Enns EA, Sullivan PS, Delaney KP. The Role of HIV Partner Services in the Modern Biomedical HIV Prevention Era: A Network Modeling Study. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:801-807. [PMID: 36194831 PMCID: PMC9668377 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001711] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV partner services can accelerate the use of antiretroviral-based HIV prevention tools (antiretroviral therapy [ART] and preexposure prophylaxis [PrEP]), but its population impact on long-term HIV incidence reduction is challenging to quantify with traditional partner services metrics of partner identified or HIV screened. Understanding the role of partner services within the portfolio of HIV prevention interventions, including using it to efficiently deliver antiretrovirals, is needed to achieve HIV prevention targets. METHODS We used a stochastic network model of HIV/sexually transmitted infection transmission for men who have sex with men, calibrated to surveillance-based estimates in the Atlanta area, a jurisdiction with high HIV burden and suboptimal partner services uptake. Model scenarios varied successful delivery of partner services cascade steps (newly diagnosed "index" patient and partner identification, partner HIV screening, and linkage or reengagement of partners in PrEP or ART care) individually and jointly. RESULTS At current levels observed in Atlanta, removal of HIV partner services had minimal impact on 10-year cumulative HIV incidence, as did improving a single partner services step while holding the others constant. These changes did not sufficiently impact overall PrEP or ART coverage to reduce HIV transmission. If all index patients and partners were identified, maximizing partner HIV screening, partner PrEP provision, partner ART linkage, and partner ART reengagement would avert 6%, 11%, 5%, and 18% of infections, respectively. Realistic improvements in partner identification and service delivery were estimated to avert 2% to 8% of infections, depending on the combination of improvements. CONCLUSIONS Achieving optimal HIV prevention with partner services depends on pairing improvements in index patient and partner identification with maximal delivery of HIV screening, ART, and PrEP to partners if indicated. Improving the identification steps without improvement to antiretroviral service delivery steps, or vice versa, is projected to result in negligible population HIV prevention benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kyle T. Bernstein
- STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Eva A. Enns
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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28
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Maloney KM, Benkeser D, Sullivan PS, Kelley C, Sanchez T, Jenness SM. Sexual Mixing by HIV Status and Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Use Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: Addressing Information Bias. Epidemiology 2022; 33:808-816. [PMID: 35895578 PMCID: PMC9561018 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001525] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population-level estimates of sexual network mixing for parameterizing prediction models of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) effectiveness are needed to inform prevention of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM). Estimates obtained by egocentric sampling are vulnerable to information bias due to incomplete respondent knowledge. METHODS We estimated patterns of serosorting and PrEP sorting among MSM in the United States using data from a 2017-2019 egocentric sexual network study. Respondents served as proxies to report the HIV status and PrEP use of recent sexual partners. We contrasted results from a complete-case analysis (unknown HIV and PrEP excluded) versus a bias analysis with respondent-reported data stochastically reclassified to simulate unobserved self-reported data from sexual partners. RESULTS We found strong evidence of preferential partnering across analytical approaches. The bias analysis showed concordance between sexual partners of HIV diagnosis and PrEP use statuses for MSM with diagnosed HIV (39%; 95% simulation interval: 31, 46), MSM who used PrEP (32%; 21, 37), and MSM who did not use PrEP (83%; 79, 87). The fraction of partners with diagnosed HIV was higher among MSM who used PrEP (11%; 9, 14) compared with MSM who did not use PrEP (4%; 3, 5). Comparatively, across all strata of respondents, the complete-case analysis overestimated the fractions of partners with diagnosed HIV or PrEP use. CONCLUSIONS We found evidence consistent with HIV and PrEP sorting among MSM, which may decrease the population-level effectiveness of PrEP. Bias analyses can improve mixing estimates for parameterization of transmission models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Maloney
- From the Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - David Benkeser
- Department of Biostatistics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | - Travis Sanchez
- From the Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Samuel M Jenness
- From the Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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29
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Sullivan PS, Galli R, Malhomme N, York J. Laboratory Industry Perspectives on the Role of Self-Collection and Self-Testing in Remote Care for Sexually Transmitted Infections: How Do We Bring These Services to Scale? Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:S31-S35. [PMID: 35839281 PMCID: PMC10405362 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Sullivan
- From the Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Rick Galli
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, REACH Nexus, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - James York
- Business Development, Molecular Testing Labs, Vancouver, WA
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30
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Bekker LG, Giovenco D, Baral S, Dominguez K, Valencia R, Sanchez T, McNaghten A, Zahn R, Yah CS, Sokhela Z, Kaplan R, Phaswana-Mafuya RN, Beyrer C, Sullivan PS. Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake, adherence, and adverse events among South African men who have sex with men and transgender women. South Afr J HIV Med 2022; 23:1405. [PMID: 36479416 PMCID: PMC9724083 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v23i1.1405] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV prevention programmes that include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in South Africa have not been widely implemented. Objectives The authors examined oral PrEP uptake, adherence, and adverse events among HIV-uninfected MSM and TGW to inform intervention acceptability and feasibility. Method In 2015, MSM and TGW in two South African cities were offered a comprehensive package of HIV prevention services, including daily oral PrEP, and were followed for one year. Different models of PrEP delivery were used at each site. Adherence was measured using self-report and pill-count data and tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations. Results Among 135 participants who were eligible for PrEP, 82 (61%) initiated PrEP, of whom 67 (82%) were on PrEP at study end. Participants were on PrEP for a median of 294 out of 314.5 possible days (93% protected days). The median time from PrEP initiation to discontinuation or study end was 305 days (interquartile range: 232-325 days). Across the follow-up time points, 57% - 72% of participants self-reported taking protective levels of PrEP and 59% - 74% were adherent to PrEP as indicated by pill counts. Fewer (≤ 18%) achieved protective TFV-DP concentrations of ≥ 700 fmol/punch in dried blood spots. Side effects, while typically mild, were the most commonly cited reason by participants for early PrEP discontinuation. Conclusion Many MSM and TGW initiated and maintained PrEP, demonstrating that PrEP can be successfully delivered to South African MSM and TGW in diverse programmatic contexts. Biologic adherence measures suggest MSM and TGW may experience challenges taking PrEP regularly. Counselling for coping with side effects and motivating daily pill taking is recommended to support South African MSM and TGW in achieving protection with PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Danielle Giovenco
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
- International Health Institute, Brown University, Providence, United States of America
| | - Stefan Baral
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Karen Dominguez
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
- Contraceptive Research and Development (CONRAD), Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, United States of America
| | - Rachel Valencia
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - A.D. McNaghten
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Ryan Zahn
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, United States of America
| | - Clarence S. Yah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Health System and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Zinhle Sokhela
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Refliwe N. Phaswana-Mafuya
- South African Medical Research Council/University of Johannesburg Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States of America
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, United States of America
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Schurr EH, Luisi N, Sanchez T, Lopman BA, Bradley H, Sullivan PS, Siegler AJ. Association of Guideline Complexity With Individuals' Ability to Determine Eligibility for COVID-19 Vaccination. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e2234579. [PMID: 36194416 PMCID: PMC9533177 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.34579] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examines the association between the complexity of consumer guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination and identification of eligibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Hanna Schurr
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Benjamin A. Lopman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Heather Bradley
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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32
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Jones J, Le Guillou A, Gift TL, Chesson H, Bernstein K, Delaney K, Lyles C, Berruti A, Sullivan PS, Jenness SM. Effect of Screening and Treatment for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia on HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: A Modeling Analysis. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:669-676. [PMID: 35921635 PMCID: PMC9481699 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous models have estimated the total population attributable fraction of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis (NG/CT) on HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM), but this does not represent realistic intervention effects. We estimated the potential impact of screening for NG/CT on downstream incidence of HIV among MSM. METHODS Using a network model, we estimated the effects of varying coverage levels for sexually transmitted infection screening among different priority populations: all sexually active MSM regardless of HIV serostatus, MSM with multiple recent (past 6 months) sex partners regardless of serostatus, MSM without HIV, and MSM with HIV. Under the assumption that all screening events included a urethral test, we also examined the effect of increasing the proportion of screening events that include rectal screening for NG/CT on HIV incidence. RESULTS Increasing annual NG/CT screening among sexually active MSM by 60% averted 4.9% of HIV infections over a 10-year period (interquartile range, 2.8%-6.8%). More HIV infections were averted when screening was focused on MSM with multiple recent sex partners: 60% coverage among MSM with multiple recent sex partners averted 9.8% of HIV infections (interquartile range, 8.1%-11.6%). Increased sexually transmitted infection screening among MSM without HIV averted more new HIV infections compared with the transmissions averted because of screening MSM with HIV, but fewer NG/CT tests were needed among MSM with HIV to avert a single new HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS Screening of NG/CT among MSM is expected to lead to modest but clinically relevant reductions in HIV incidence among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Adrien Le Guillou
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Thomas L. Gift
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Harrell Chesson
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Kyle Bernstein
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Kevin Delaney
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Cynthia Lyles
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Andres Berruti
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Samuel M. Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
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Hall EW, Weng MK, Harris AM, Schillie S, Nelson NP, Ortega-Sanchez IR, Rosenthal E, Sullivan PS, Lopman B, Jones J, Bradley H, Rosenberg ES. Assessing the Cost-Utility of Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination Among Adults. J Infect Dis 2022; 226:1041-1051. [PMID: 35260904 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although effective against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, hepatitis B (HepB) vaccination is only recommended for infants, children, and adults at higher risk. We conducted an economic evaluation of universal HepB vaccination among US adults. METHODS Using a decision analytic model with Markov disease progression, we compared current vaccination recommendations (baseline) with either 3-dose or 2-dose universal HepB vaccination (intervention strategies). In simulated modeling of 1 million adults distributed by age and risk groups, we quantified health benefits (quality-adjusted life years, QALYs) and costs for each strategy. Multivariable probabilistic sensitivity analyses identified key inputs. All costs reported in 2019 US dollars. RESULTS With incremental base-case vaccination coverage up to 50% among persons at lower risk and 0% increment among persons at higher risk, each of 2 intervention strategies averted nearly one-quarter of acute HBV infections (3-dose strategy, 24.8%; 2-dose strategy, 24.6%). Societal incremental cost per QALY gained of $152 722 (interquartile range, $119 113-$235 086) and $155 429 (interquartile range, $120 302-$242 226) were estimated for 3-dose and 2-dose strategies, respectively. Risk of acute HBV infection showed the strongest influence. CONCLUSIONS Universal adult vaccination against HBV may be an appropriate strategy for reducing HBV incidence and improving resulting health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Hall
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.,Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mark K Weng
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Aaron M Harris
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sarah Schillie
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Noele P Nelson
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ismael R Ortega-Sanchez
- National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth Rosenthal
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, New York, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ben Lopman
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jeb Jones
- Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Heather Bradley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eli S Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, New York, USA.,New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
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Speak A, Emani S, Vera LA, Sullivan PS, Staley CA, Sharma J, Shaffer VO. Pain Catastrophizing and Hospital Length of Stay in Colorectal Surgery Patients: a Prospective Cohort Study. J Gastrointest Surg 2022; 26:1960-1962. [PMID: 35364775 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-022-05307-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Speak
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Srinivas Emani
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Luis A Vera
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Charles A Staley
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jyotirmay Sharma
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Virginia O Shaffer
- Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, 1365 Clifton Rd NE, Clinic B, 4th Floor, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Sharpe JD, Sanchez TH, Siegler AJ, Guest JL, Sullivan PS. Association between the geographic accessibility of PrEP and PrEP use among MSM in nonurban areas. J Rural Health 2022; 38:948-959. [PMID: 34997634 PMCID: PMC9259757 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12645] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The US HIV epidemic has become a public health issue that increasingly affects men who have sex with men (MSM), including those residing in nonurban areas. Increasing access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in nonurban areas will prevent HIV acquisition and could address the growing HIV epidemic. No studies have quantified the associations between PrEP access and PrEP use among nonurban MSM. METHODS Using 2020 PrEP Locator data and American Men's Internet Survey data, we conducted multilevel log-binomial regression to examine the association between area-level geographic accessibility of PrEP-providing clinics and individual-level PrEP use among MSM residing in nonurban areas in the United States. FINDINGS Of 4,792 PrEP-eligible nonurban MSM, 20.1% resided in a PrEP desert (defined as more than a 30-minute drive to access PrEP), and 15.2% used PrEP in the past 12 months. In adjusted models, suburban MSM residing in PrEP deserts were less likely to use PrEP in the past year (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.15, 0.80) than suburban MSM not residing in PrEP deserts, and other nonurban MSM residing in PrEP deserts were less likely to use PrEP in the past year (aPR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.60, 0.95) than other nonurban MSM not residing in PrEP deserts. CONCLUSIONS Structural interventions designed to decrease barriers to PrEP access that are unique to nonurban areas in the United States are needed to address the growing HIV epidemic in these communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Danielle Sharpe
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Travis H. Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Huang W, Dove-Medows E, Shealey J, Sanchez K, Benson L, Seymore DD, Sullivan PS, Bradley HM, Siegle AJ. COVID-19 Vaccine Attitudes among a Majority Black Sample in the Southern US: Public Health Implications from a Qualitative Study. Res Sq 2022:rs.3.rs-1918432. [PMID: 36032978 PMCID: PMC9413720 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1918432/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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have high caseloads in the US, with vaccines a critical component of the response. Disparities in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality have been identified across states and racial/ethnic groups, which are likely in part due to disparities in COVID-19 vaccine uptake. This study aims to better understand and contextualize COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among persons from primarily racial/ethnic minority populations in the Southern US. METHODS We conducted 29 in-depth interviews with a sample of households in Atlanta, GA that were selected from an address-based sampling frame. We purposively approached households, from February 6 to June 27, 2021, that declined participation in a national COVID-19 serosurvey to gain perspectives of people who are often under-represented in research. Interviews were conducted in-person or over phone calls for participants with that preference. Thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and facilitators of COVID-19 vaccination, and to contextualize drivers of vaccine hesitancy. RESULTS Decision-making about vaccination was described as dynamic, and was compared to the feeling of being on a roller coaster. The predominant reported sources of information were mass media and social media. Facilitators of vaccination included altruism, positive communication from trusted community members and workplace colleagues, and local vaccine provision sites. Driving reasons for vaccine hesitancy included limited trust in the government and concerns about COVID-19 vaccine safety, which one participant compared to jumping off a cliff without a tested rope. Among a subset of participants, beliefs regarding perceived intent to harm the Black community were prevalent. Opportunities to optimally address vaccine hesitancy included countering negative social media messages with positive messaging that matches the community's vivid ways of discussing vaccines, collaborating with community stakeholders on vaccine promotion efforts, and offering workplace-based vaccine promotion efforts. CONCLUSIONS This study presents data that indicate it may be optimal to more broadly define 'community' in COVID-19 vaccine promotion efforts to include social media and workplace venues. To optimize vaccine and vaccine booster uptake and equity, public health must address historic racism and other concerns by using outreach that is grounded in communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Huang
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Emily Dove-Medows
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jalissa Shealey
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Katia Sanchez
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Lauren Benson
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - DawnSheska D Seymore
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Aaron J Siegle
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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Jones J, Knox J, Meanley S, Yang C, Lounsbury DW, Huang TT, Bauermeister J, Gonzalez-Hernandez G, Frye V, Grov C, Patel V, Baral SD, Sullivan PS, Schwartz SR. Explorations of the Role of Digital Technology in HIV-Related Implementation Research: Case Comparisons of Five Ending the HIV Epidemic Supplement Awards. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 90:S226-S234. [PMID: 35703775 PMCID: PMC9204781 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002983] [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: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of digital technology in HIV-related interventions and implementation strategies is increasing. Whether the use of technology is to directly improve patient outcomes (ie, part of the intervention) or as part of the strategy to implement interventions has important implications. In this article, we present 5 case studies of projects that feature the use of technology in HIV-related implementation research to identify and describe challenges specific to technology-based implementation research about study design, outcome measurement, implementing in an evolving technology landscape, and equity. METHODS For each case study, we identified the technological components, classified the components as intervention or implementation strategy, and identified implications for measuring performance and ensuring equity. The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment framework was used to identify the research stage of each project. RESULTS Technology is being leveraged across a diverse array of implementation strategies to promote Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States. The case studies were primarily in the exploration and preparation phases of implementation, yet technology played a different role in each project- developing educational materials, mass media to recruit participants or distribute evidence-based campaigns, providing training, guiding tailoring, and implementing novel methods to democratize intervention development. DISCUSSION Technology can play multiple roles in HIV-related implementation research projects, including serving as the intervention, being leveraged within implementation strategies, or both. We identified multiple considerations across projects that should be taken into account when measuring success and planning for equitable and sustained impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University
| | - Justin Knox
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center
| | - Steven Meanley
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
| | - Cui Yang
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health
| | - David W Lounsbury
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
| | - Terry T Huang
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York
| | - Jose Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
| | | | | | - Christian Grov
- Department of Community Health and Social Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York
| | - Viraj Patel
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Montefiore Health System
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health
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Nelson KN, Siegler AJ, Sullivan PS, Bradley H, Hall E, Luisi N, Hipp-Ramsey P, Sanchez T, Shioda K, Lopman BA. Nationally representative social contact patterns among U.S. adults, August 2020-April 2021. Epidemics 2022; 40:100605. [PMID: 35810698 PMCID: PMC9242729 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2022.100605] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S prompted abrupt and dramatic changes to social contact patterns. Monitoring changing social behavior is essential to provide reliable input data for mechanistic models of infectious disease, which have been increasingly used to support public health policy to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic. While some studies have reported on changing contact patterns throughout the pandemic, few have reported differences in contact patterns among key demographic groups and none have reported nationally representative estimates. We conducted a national probability survey of US households and collected information on social contact patterns during two time periods: August-December 2020 (before widespread vaccine availability) and March-April 2021 (during national vaccine rollout). Overall, contact rates in Spring 2021 were similar to those in Fall 2020, with most contacts reported at work. Persons identifying as non-White, non-Black, non-Asian, and non-Hispanic reported high numbers of contacts relative to other racial and ethnic groups. Contact rates were highest in those reporting occupations in retail, hospitality and food service, and transportation. Those testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies reported a higher number of daily contacts than those who were seronegative. Our findings provide evidence for differences in social behavior among demographic groups, highlighting the profound disparities that have become the hallmark of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin N Nelson
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA.
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Heather Bradley
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia State University School of Public Health, USA
| | - Eric Hall
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University, USA
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Palmer Hipp-Ramsey
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Kayoko Shioda
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
| | - Benjamin A Lopman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA; Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, USA
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Laher F, Richardson SI, Smith P, Sullivan PS, Abrahams AG, Asowata OE, Bitangumutwenzi P, Dabee S, Dollah A, Fernandez N, Langat RK, Bose DL, Likhitwonnawut U, Mullick R, Resop RS, Sutar J, Thompson-Hall A“N, Traeger MW, Tuyishime M, Wambui J, Bekker LG, Kaleebu P, McCormack S, O'Connor DH, Warren M, Torri T, Thyagarajan B. HIV Prevention in a Time of COVID-19: A Report from the HIVR4P // Virtual Conference 2021. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2022; 38:350-358. [PMID: 34714100 PMCID: PMC9131040 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2021.0138] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The HIV Research for Prevention (HIVR4P) conference catalyzes knowledge sharing on biomedical HIV prevention interventions such as HIV vaccines, antibody infusions, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and microbicides in totality-from the molecular details and delivery formulations to the behavioral, social, and structural underpinnings. HIVR4P // Virtual was held over the course of 2 weeks on January 27-28 and February 3-4, 2021 as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continued to inflict unprecedented harm globally. The HIVR4P community came together with 1,802 researchers, care providers, policymakers, implementers, and advocates from 92 countries whose expertise spanned the breadth of the HIV prevention pipeline from preclinical to implementation. The program included 113 oral and 266 poster presentations. This article presents a brief summary of the conference highlights. Complete abstracts, webcasts, and daily rapporteur summaries may be found on the conference website (https://www.hivr4p.org/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Laher
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Simone I. Richardson
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Philip Smith
- The Desmond Tutu HIV Research Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Smritee Dabee
- Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | | | - Devi Leena Bose
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), New Delhi, India
| | | | - Ranajoy Mullick
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), New Delhi, India
| | - Rachel S. Resop
- The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jyoti Sutar
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Mumbai, India
| | | | | | | | - Jacque Wambui
- AFROCAB Treatment Access Partnerships, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Uganda Virus Research Institute & MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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Drab R, Wolfe JR, Chavanduka TMD, Bonar EE, Guest JL, Hightow-Weidman L, Castel AD, Horvath KJ, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R, Bauermeister J. Constructing a web-based health directory for adolescent men who have sex with men: Strategies for development and resource verification. J Community Psychol 2022; 50:1597-1615. [PMID: 34716596 PMCID: PMC8916971 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Online health directories are increasingly used to locate health services and community resources, providing contact and service information that assists users in identifying resources that may meet their health and wellness needs. However, service locations require additional vetting when directories plan to refer vulnerable populations. As a tool included as part of a trial of a mobile life skills intervention for cisgender adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM; ages 13-18), we constructed and verified resources for an online resource directory focused on linking young people to LGBTQ+ friendly and affirming local health and community social services resources. We collected information for 2301 individual directory listings through database and internet searches. To ensure the listings aligned with the project's focus of supporting young sexual minority men, we developed multiple data verification assessments to ensure community appropriateness resulting in verification of 1833 resources suitable for inclusion in our locator tool at project launch (March 2018). We offer lessons learned and future directions for researchers and practitioners who may benefit from adapting our processes and strategies for building culturally-tailored resource directories for vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Drab
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
| | - James R. Wolfe
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
| | - Tanaka MD Chavanduka
- The School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, US
| | - Erin E. Bonar
- The School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, US
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Addiction Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, US
- Injury Prevention Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, US
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, US
- Emory University School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, US
| | | | - Amanda D. Castel
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, D.C., US
| | | | | | - Rob Stephenson
- The School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, US
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Nelson KN, Siegler AJ, Sullivan PS, Bradley H, Hall E, Luisi N, Hipp-Ramsey P, Sanchez T, Shioda K, Lopman BA. Nationally Representative Social Contact Patterns among U.S. adults, August 2020-April 2021. medRxiv 2022:2021.09.22.21263904. [PMID: 35378746 PMCID: PMC8978954 DOI: 10.1101/2021.09.22.21263904] [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] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S prompted abrupt and dramatic changes to social contact patterns. Monitoring changing social behavior is essential to provide reliable input data for mechanistic models of infectious disease, which have been increasingly used to support public health policy to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic. While some studies have reported on changing contact patterns throughout the pandemic., few have reported on differences in contact patterns among key demographic groups and none have reported nationally representative estimates. We conducted a national probability survey of US households and collected information on social contact patterns during two time periods: August-December 2020 (before widespread vaccine availability) and March-April 2021 (during national vaccine rollout). Overall, contact rates in Spring 2021 were similar to those in Fall 2020, with most contacts reported at work. Persons identifying as non-White, non-Black, non-Asian, and non-Hispanic reported high numbers of contacts relative to other racial and ethnic groups. Contact rates were highest in those reporting occupations in retail, hospitality and food service, and transportation. Those testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies reported a higher number of daily contacts than those who were seronegative. Our findings provide evidence for differences in social behavior among demographic groups, highlighting the profound disparities that have become the hallmark of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin N Nelson
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Heather Bradley
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia State University School of Public Health
| | - Eric Hall
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University
| | - Nicole Luisi
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | | | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Kayoko Shioda
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Benjamin A Lopman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
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Hong C, Feinstein BA, Holloway IW, Yu F, Huang W, Sullivan PS, Siegler AJ, Mi G. Differences in Sexual Behaviors, HIV Testing, and Willingness to Use PrEP between Gay and Bisexual Men Who Have Sex with Men in China. Int J Sex Health 2022; 34:424-431. [PMID: 38596280 PMCID: PMC10903611 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2053922] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: Accumulating evidence suggests that there may be differences in sexual behaviors, condom use, and HIV prevention service utilization (e.g., HIV testing, PrEP use) between gay and bisexual men, but this remains under-explored, especially among gay and bisexual men in China. Methods: We surveyed 4,142 gay and bisexual men on a geosocial networking app in China. Results: In adjusted model, bisexual men were less likely to have received HIV testing in their lifetime (AOR = .62, 95% CI [.53, .72]) or to have received a recent HIV test (AOR = .78, 95% CI [.68, .90]). Conversely, among those who reported having had anal sex in the past six months, bisexual men were more likely to report consistent condom use than gay men (OR = 1.38, 95% CI [1.17, 1.62]). Compared with gay men, bisexual men were significantly less likely to be aware of PrEP (AOR = .62, 95% CI [.52, .74]) and significantly less willing to use PrEP (AOR = .58, 95% CI [.46, .73]). Conclusions: Tailored HIV prevention interventions are needed to address bisexual men's needs in the context of the unique sociocultural influences on sexual behavior in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglin Hong
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brian A. Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ian W. Holloway
- Department of Social Welfare, Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Beijing Media Limited, Beijing, China
| | - Wenting Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Guodong Mi
- Danlan Beijing Media Limited, Beijing, China
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Jones J, Edwards OW, Merrill L, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R. Interest in mobile HIV prevention apps among sexual and gender minority persons living in the rural southern United States: A qualitative study (Preprint). JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e38075. [PMID: 35699980 PMCID: PMC9237777 DOI: 10.2196/38075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile health (mHealth) interventions, including smartphone apps, have been found to be an effective means of increasing the uptake of HIV prevention tools, including HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests and pre-exposure prophylaxis. However, most HIV prevention mHealth apps tested in the United States have been tested among populations living in areas surrounding urban centers. Owing to reduced access to broadband internet and reliable cellular data services, it remains unclear how accessible and effective these interventions will be in rural areas. In addition, gay and bisexual men who have sex with men and gender minority populations in rural areas experience enhanced stigma when compared with their more urban counterparts, and these experiences might affect their willingness and interest in mHealth apps. Objective This study aimed to conduct online focus groups with men who have sex with men and transgender and gender diverse populations in the rural southern United States to assess their interest in mHealth HIV prevention apps and the features that they would be the most interested in using. Methods Focus group participants were recruited from a larger pool of sexual and gender minority respondents to a web-based research survey. The participants indicated that they would be willing to participate in an online focus group discussion. Focus groups were conducted via secure Zoom (Zoom Video Communications Inc) videoconferencing. During the focus group discussions, participants were asked to discuss their experiences with HIV and STI prevention and how these experiences were affected by living in a rural area. They were then shown screenshots of a new app to promote HIV and STI prevention among rural populations and asked to provide their opinions on the app’s features. The transcripts of the discussions were reviewed and coded using a constant comparative approach. Results A total of 6 focus groups were conducted with 26 participants. Most participants were cisgender gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (19/26, 73%); the remaining participants were transgender men (2/26, 8%), were nonbinary people (2/26, 8%), or had multiple gender identities (3/26, 12%). Participants reported numerous barriers to accessing HIV and STI prevention services and accurate information about HIV and STI prevention options. Overall, the participants reported a high degree of interest in mHealth interventions for HIV and STI prevention and suggested several recommendations for the features of an app-based intervention that would be the most useful for rural residents. Conclusions These focus group discussions indicate that rural residence is not a major barrier to mHealth HIV and STI prevention intervention implementation and that there is a high degree of interest in these approaches to HIV and STI prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - O Winslow Edwards
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Leland Merrill
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Huang W, Lockard A, Kelley CF, Serota DP, Rolle CPM, Sullivan PS, Rosenberg ES, Siegler AJ. From declining PrEP to PrEP initiation as "first nature" - what changes PrEP initiation decisions among young, Black MSM. AIDS Care 2022; 34:284-293. [PMID: 34369230 PMCID: PMC8825883 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1960946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) bear a disproportionate burden of HIV, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake has been slow. Decisions regarding PrEP initiation change in different life contexts over time. Our YBMSM cohort study found about 1/3 of those who initially declined PrEP subsequently changed and initiated PrEP care. This study explores the process of their PrEP decision changes. The study interviewed participants who initially voiced strong and clear reservations about PrEP, but subsequently started PrEP 1-14 months later. In "review/renew" follow-up interviews, participants reviewed their past statements from a time they declined PrEP, and renew their understanding regarding perspective and behavioral change. Analyzing the data with a positive deviance framework, we found that shifting the decisional balance in favor of PrEP initiation only required change in some areas. There were not consistent factors that prevented or facilitated PrEP uptake. Instead, YBMSM initiated PrEP while maintaining an array of substantial reservations. PrEP initiation discussions should be viewed by health practitioners as a longitudinal process, and routine PrEP offers should be made over time. To optimally facilitate PrEP use among YBMSM, the diverse benefits of PrEP should be emphasized rather than focusing on allaying all concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Huang
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Annie Lockard
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Colleen F. Kelley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - David P. Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | | | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eli S. Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Albany School of Public Health, SUNY, Albany, New York
| | - Aaron J. Siegler
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia,Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Derrick T, Harrington KRV, Alohan DI, Sullivan PS, Holland DP, Klepser DG, Quamina A, Siegler AJ, Young HN. Integrating and Disseminating Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Screening and Dispensing for Black Men Who Have Sex With Men in Atlanta, Georgia: Protocol for Community Pharmacies. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e35590. [PMID: 35138252 PMCID: PMC8867290 DOI: 10.2196/35590] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) suffer from alarmingly high rates of HIV in the United States. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce the risk of HIV infection by 99% among men who have sex with men, yet profound racial disparities in the uptake of PrEP persist. Low PrEP uptake in BMSM is driven by poor access to PrEP, including inconvenient locations of PrEP-prescribing physicians, distrust of physicians, and stigma, which limit communication about PrEP and its side effects. Previous work indicates that offering HIV prevention services in pharmacies located in low-income, underserved neighborhoods is feasible and can reduce stigma because pharmacies offer a host of less stigmatized health services (eg, vaccinations). We present a protocol for a pharmacy PrEP model that seeks to address challenges and barriers to pharmacy-based PrEP specifically for BMSM. OBJECTIVE We aim to develop a sustainable pharmacy PrEP delivery model for BMSM that can be implemented to increase PrEP access in low-income, underserved neighborhoods. METHODS This study design is a pilot intervention to test a pharmacy PrEP delivery model among pharmacy staff and BMSM. We will examine the PrEP delivery model's feasibility, acceptability, and safety and gather early evidence of its impact and cost with respect to PrEP uptake. A mixed-methods approach will be performed, including three study phases: (1) a completed formative phase with qualitative interviews from key stakeholders; (2) a completed transitional pilot phase to assess customer eligibility and willingness to receive PrEP in pharmacies during COVID-19; and (3) a planned pilot intervention phase which will test the delivery model in 2 Atlanta pharmacies in low-income, underserved neighborhoods. RESULTS Data from the formative phase showed strong support of pharmacy-based PrEP delivery among BMSM, pharmacists, and pharmacy staff. Important factors were identified to facilitate the implementation of PrEP screening and dissemination in pharmacies. During the transitional pilot phase, we identified 81 individuals who would have been eligible for the pilot phase. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacies have proven to be a feasible source for offering PrEP for White men who have sex with men but have failed to reach the most at-risk, vulnerable population (ie, BMSM). Increasing PrEP access and uptake will reduce HIV incidence and racial inequities in HIV. Translational studies are required to build further evidence and scale pharmacy-based PrEP services specifically for populations that are disconnected from HIV prevention resources. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/35590.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristin R V Harrington
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Daniel I Alohan
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - David P Holland
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Division of Medical and Preventative Services, Fulton County Board of Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Donald G Klepser
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Alvan Quamina
- National AIDS Education and Services for Minorities Inc, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Aaron J Siegler
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Henry N Young
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Athens, GA, United States
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Trang K, Le LX, Brown CA, To MQ, Sullivan PS, Jovanovic T, Worthman CM, Giang LM. Feasibility, Acceptability, and Design of a Mobile Ecological Momentary Assessment for High-Risk Men Who Have Sex With Men in Hanoi, Vietnam: Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e30360. [PMID: 35084340 PMCID: PMC8950985 DOI: 10.2196/30360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at a disproportionate risk for HIV infection and common mental disorders worldwide. In the context of HIV, common mental disorders are important and are frequent drivers of suboptimal prevention and treatment outcomes. Mobile ecological momentary assessments (EMAs), or the repeated sampling of people’s behaviors and psychological states in their daily lives using mobile phones, can clarify the triggers and HIV-related sequelae of depressive-anxious symptoms and contribute toward the design of ecological momentary interventions (EMIs) that cater to the contextually varying needs of individuals to optimize prevention and treatment outcomes. Objective This study aims to characterize the feasibility and acceptability of mobile EMA among high-risk MSM in Hanoi, Vietnam. It aims to evaluate the perceived relevance, usability, and concerns of this group with regard to the content and delivery of mobile EMA and the potential of leveraging such platforms in the future to deliver EMIs. Methods Between January and April 2018, a total of 46 participants were recruited. The participants completed 6 to 8 mobile EMA surveys daily for 7 days. Surveys occurred once upon waking, 4 to 6 times throughout the day, and once before sleeping. All surveys queried participants’ perceived safety, social interactions, psychological state, and mental health symptoms. The morning survey further queried on sleep and medication use within the past 24 hours, whereas the night survey queried on sexual activity and substance use and allowed participants to share an audio recording of a stressful experience they had that day. At the end of the week, participants were interviewed about their experiences with using the app. Results Participants completed an average of 21.7 (SD 12.7) prompts over the 7-day period. Excluding nonresponders, the average compliance rate was 61.8% (SD 26.6%). A thematic analysis of qualitative interviews suggested an overall positive reception of the app and 5 recurring themes, which were centered on the relevance of psychological and behavioral items to daily experiences (eg, mental health symptoms and audio recording), benefits of using the app (eg, increased self-understanding), worries and concerns (eg, privacy), usability (eg, confusion about the interface), and recommendations for future design (eg, integrating more open-ended questions). Conclusions Mobile EMA is feasible and acceptable among young MSM in Vietnam; however, more research is needed to adapt EMA protocols to this context and enhance compliance. Most participants eagerly provided information about their mental health status and daily activities. As several participants looked toward the app for further mental health and psychosocial support, EMIs have the potential to reduce HIV and mental health comorbidity among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Trang
- Global TIES for Children, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Lam X Le
- Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Margaret Q To
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tanja Jovanovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Carol M Worthman
- Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Le Minh Giang
- Department of Epidemiology, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Mann LM, Kelley CF, Siegler AJ, Stephenson R, Sullivan PS. Seroadaptive Strategy Patterns of Young Black Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men in Atlanta, Georgia. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 89:40-48. [PMID: 34878433 PMCID: PMC8711639 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (YBMSM) are disproportionally affected by HIV. Seroadaptive strategies-modification of sexual behavior based on an individual's perceived serostatus, the perceived status of the partner, and/or HIV transmission risk by the type of sex act-are often used to reduce the risk of HIV transmission or acquisition. METHODS We used demographic, behavioral, and clinical data from Ele[MEN]t, a prospective cohort study of YBMSM aged 18-29 years in Atlanta, GA, conducted during 2015-2019. The prevalence of seroadaptive strategies at baseline was reported, and latent class analysis was used to identify the latent classes of strategies for both YBMSM known and not known to be living with HIV. Latent classes were compared by key behavioral and clinical characteristics to validate our findings. RESULTS In a 4-class model, the most common latent class of YBMSM not known to be living with HIV (32.4%) was characterized by all individuals reporting only having sex with men not perceived to be living with HIV. The most common latent class of YBMSM known to be living with HIV (48.2%) was characterized by a combination of serosorting strategies, including using condoms for anal sex with partners not known to be living with HIV and avoiding sex with men not known to be living with HIV. CONCLUSIONS YBMSM use various patterns of strategies to reduce their HIV transmission or acquisition risk. Our study highlights the need for targeted HIV prevention recommendations based on individual behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M. Mann
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Colleen F. Kelley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing and The Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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Kelley CF, Pollack I, Yacoub R, Zhu Z, Van Doren VE, Gumber S, Amara RR, Fedirko V, Kraft CS, de Man TJB, Hu YJ, Grimsley Ackerley C, Sullivan PS, Bostick RM. Condomless receptive anal intercourse is associated with markers of mucosal inflammation in a cohort of men who have sex with men in Atlanta, Georgia. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25859. [PMID: 34911162 PMCID: PMC8673926 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25859] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We previously showed that the rectal mucosal immune environment among men who have sex with men (MSM) engaging in condomless receptive anal intercourse (CRAI) is immunologically distinct from that of men who do not engage in anal intercourse (AI). Here, we further examined these differences with quantitative immunohistochemistry to better understand the geographic distribution of immune markers of interest. Methods We enrolled a cohort of MSM engaging in CRAI (n = 41) and men who do not engage in AI (n = 21) between October 2013 and April 2015. Participants were healthy, HIV‐negative men aged 18–45 from the metro Atlanta area. We performed rectal mucosal sampling via rigid sigmoidoscopy during two study visits separated by a median of nine weeks and timed with sexual activity for MSM engaging in CRAI. We used standardized, automated immunohistochemistry and quantitative image analysis to investigate the rectal mucosal distribution of neutrophils (MPO), IL‐17‐producing cells (IL‐17) and Tregs (FOXP3) in the lamina propria, and cellular proliferation (Ki67) and adherens junction protein (E‐cadherin) in the epithelium. We examined associations between biomarker expression and the rectal mucosal microbiota composition by 16s rRNA sequencing. Results Relative to the colonic crypt base, IL‐17, FOXP3, and MPO expression increased towards the rectal lumen, while Ki67 decreased and E‐cadherin was more uniformly distributed. Throughout the rectal mucosa distribution examined, MSM engaging in CRAI had higher mean lamina propria MPO expression (p = 0.04) and epithelial Ki67 (p = 0.04) compared to controls. There were no significant differences in IL‐17, FOXP3 or E‐cadherin expression. We found no significant associations of the five biomarkers with the global rectal microbiota composition or the individual taxa examined. Conclusions Understanding the mucosal distribution of inflammatory mediators can enhance our knowledge of the earliest events in HIV transmission. Neutrophil enrichment and crypt epithelial cell proliferation likely represent sub‐clinical inflammation in response to CRAI in the rectal mucosa of MSM, which could increase the risk for HIV acquisition. However, the contributory role of the microbiota in mucosal inflammation among MSM remains unclear. HIV prevention may be enhanced by interventions that reduce inflammation or capitalize on the presence of specific inflammatory mechanisms during HIV exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen F Kelley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, The Hope Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Ilana Pollack
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, The Hope Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rami Yacoub
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Zhengyi Zhu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vanessa E Van Doren
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, The Hope Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sanjeev Gumber
- Division of Pathology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rama R Amara
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Veronika Fedirko
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Colleen S Kraft
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, The Hope Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Yi-Juan Hu
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Cassie Grimsley Ackerley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, The Hope Clinic, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Roberd M Bostick
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Sullivan SP, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R. Acceptability and Feasibility of a Telehealth Intervention for STI Testing Among Male Couples. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:4029-4043. [PMID: 33507455 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03173-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Partnered gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) are less likely to engage in HIV and STI testing. We enrolled 51 male couples from a larger study of home HIV testing to test the feasibility of a dyadic home STI testing intervention delivered via telehealth, consisting of two telehealth sessions delivered via video-chat. In the first session, an interventionist demonstrated the specimen collection kits. In the second session, an interventionist delivered the STI results. Participants reported very high levels of acceptability of the intervention: 92% reported the telehealth calls quality as very good, 99% reported the sample collection instructions were clear, and 96% of respondents returned specimens for collection. 9% of participants tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, and all were linked to care. The intervention has the potential to surmount economic, physical and stigma-related barriers to attending clinics for STI testing, but these results need to be further tested in more diverse samples of male couples.
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Katz DA, Hamilton DT, Rosenthal EM, Wang LY, Dunville RL, Aslam M, Barrios LC, Zlotorzynska M, Sanchez TH, Sullivan PS, Rosenberg ES, Goodreau SM. Effects of Condom Use on Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission Among Adolescent Sexual Minority Males in the United States: A Mixed Epidemiology and Epidemic Modeling Study. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:973-980. [PMID: 34091584 PMCID: PMC8594521 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We examined condom use patterns and potential population-level effects of a hypothetical condom intervention on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission among adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM). METHODS Using 3 data sets: national Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2015 to 2017 (YRBS-National), local YRBS data from 8 jurisdictions with sex of partner questions from 2011 to 2017 (YRBS-Trends), and American Men's Internet Survey (AMIS) 2014 to 2017, we assessed associations of condom use with year, age, and race/ethnicity among sexually active ASMM. Using a stochastic agent-based network epidemic model, structured and parameterized based on the above analyses, we calculated the percent of HIV infections averted over 10 years among ASMM ages 13 to 18 years by an intervention that increased condom use by 37% for 5 years and was delivered to 62% of ASMM at age 14 years. RESULTS In YRBS, 51.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 41.3-62.3%) and 37.9% (95% CI, 32.7-42.3%) reported condom use at last sexual intercourse in national and trend data sets, respectively. In AMIS, 47.3% (95% CI, 44.6-49.9%) reported condom use at last anal sex with a male partner. Temporal trends were not observed in any data set (P > 0.1). Condom use varied significantly by age in YRBS-National (P < 0.0001) and YRBS-Trends (P = 0.032) with 13- to 15-year-olds reporting the lowest use in both; age differences were not significant in AMIS (P = 0.919). Our hypothetical intervention averted a mean of 9.0% (95% simulation interval, -5.4% to 21.2%) of infections among ASMM. CONCLUSIONS Condom use among ASMM is low and appears to have remained stable during 2011 to 2017. Modeling suggests that condom use increases, consistent with previous interventions, have potential to avert 1 in 11 new HIV infections among ASMM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deven T. Hamilton
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Elizabeth M. Rosenthal
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Albany School of Public Health, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY
| | | | | | - Maria Aslam
- Office of the Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology
- Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Eli S. Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Albany School of Public Health, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY
| | - Steven M. Goodreau
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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