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Zinsli K, Means AR, Barbee LA, Rodriguez EM, Kerani RP. A Participatory Approach to Identifying Gaps in and Recommendations for Sexually Transmitted Infection and Preexposure Prophylaxis Clinical Services in Pierce County, Washington. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:425-430. [PMID: 38403301 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pierce County, Washington, has a high burden of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) relative to Washington State and the United States. We used a participatory approach to identify gaps in STI and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) service provision in Pierce County and generate recommendations to address these gaps. METHODS In collaboration with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD), we conducted 14 key informant interviews with local STI/PrEP providers from varied clinical settings. Using rapid qualitative analysis, we identified key gaps and strengths in service provision. Local, state, and national HIV/STI subject matter experts (SMEs) prioritized the gaps and recommendations to address them via an online survey. RESULTS The primary 6 gaps ranked by SMEs (N = 32) in order of importance included the following: (1) inadequate availability of STI and PrEP services, (2) lack of awareness of STI and PrEP services, (3) need for free/low cost STI and PrEP care, (4) need for stronger relationships among providers and TPCHD, (5) reduced accessibility related to geographically distributed population and centralized services, and (6) frequent referrals pose a service barrier. Subject matter experts prioritized recommendations for each gap as follows: (1) create an STI specialty clinic, (2) implement an STI/PrEP service availability outreach campaign, (3) strengthen referral relationships between TPCHD and free/low-cost providers, (4) develop a provider support network, (5) create a mobile STI clinic, and (6) develop an STI specialty clinic. CONCLUSIONS Sexually transmitted infection specialty clinics were prioritized by SMEs to improve access to STI and PrEP care in Pierce County, and to serve as a resource for local providers.
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Roche SD, Were D, Crawford ND, Tembo A, Pintye J, Bukusi E, Ngure K, Ortblad KF. Getting HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) into Private Pharmacies: Global Delivery Models and Research Directions. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:116-130. [PMID: 38517671 PMCID: PMC11129962 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00696-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of the current state of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery via private sector pharmacies globally, to discuss the context-specific factors that have influenced the design and implementation of different pharmacy-based PrEP delivery models in three example settings, and to identify future research directions. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple high- and low-income countries are implementing or pilot testing PrEP delivery via private pharmacies using a variety of delivery models, tailored to the context. Current evidence indicates that pharmacy-based PrEP services are in demand and generally acceptable to clients and pharmacy providers. Additionally, the evidence suggests that with proper training and oversight, pharmacy providers are capable of safely initiating and managing clients on PrEP. The delivery of PrEP services at private pharmacies also achieves similar levels of PrEP initiation and continuation as traditional health clinics, but additionally reach individuals underserved by such clinics (e.g., young men; minorities), making pharmacies well-positioned to increase overall PrEP coverage. Implementation of pharmacy-based PrEP services will look different in each context and depend not only on the state of the private pharmacy sector, but also on the extent to which key needs related to governance, financing, and regulation are addressed. Private pharmacies are a promising delivery channel for PrEP in diverse settings. Countries with robust private pharmacy sectors and populations at HIV risk should focus on aligning key areas related to governance, financing, and regulation that have proven critical to pharmacy-based PrEP delivery while pursuing an ambitious research agenda to generate information for decision-making. Additionally, the nascency of pharmacy-based PrEP delivery in both high- and low-and-middle-income settings presents a prime opportunity for shared learning and innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie D Roche
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA.
| | | | - Natalie D Crawford
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angela Tembo
- Ezintsha, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jillian Pintye
- School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
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McGee KS. Overview of the US National HIV Strategy and Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative. Nurs Clin North Am 2024; 59:297-308. [PMID: 38670696 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The US National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) is a comprehensive plan that outlines specific goals for Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States (EHE) by 2025. The strategy also provides specific strategies to prevent new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for people with HIV. The EHE is a companion document which focuses on achieving the goals of the NHAS in specific US jurisdictions where the HIV epidemic is concentrated. This article provides an overview of the NHAS and EHE and provides examples of programs and strategies that can be used to end the HIV epidemic in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara S McGee
- MSN Program, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Nursing, Duke University School of Medicine, 307 Trent Drive, Box 3322, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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Sousa ARD, Silva LAVD, Brasil SA, Zucchi EM, Ferraz DADS, Magno L, Grangeiro A, Dourado I. "It was unusual but amazing": demand creation for PrEP among adolescents' men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Brazil. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2024; 40:e00066423. [PMID: 38775571 PMCID: PMC11105349 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xen066423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the challenges in demand creation for participation in an HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) project in two Brazilian capitals. This qualitative study was conducted with men who have sex with men and transgender women aged 15 to 19 years who lived in two Brazilian state capitals. For this analysis, 27 semi-structured interviews carried out from 2019 to 2020 were evaluated by reflexive thematic content analysis. For participants, PrEP demand creation was essential for their interaction, mediation, bonding, and attachment and proved effective for PrEP acceptability and adherence. Adolescents' narratives showed that the strategies promoted HIV combination prevention, opened up opportunities for recruitment meetings, helped to negotiate with and convince individuals to use PrEP, strengthened peer education, and evoked a feeling of "being with" and "walking together" despite the challenges. Face-to-face or online interactions using social technologies played a crucial role in recruiting adolescents for the project, expanding knowledge on PrEP and other combination prevention strategies and access to health services and self-care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sandra Assis Brasil
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
| | - Eliana Miura Zucchi
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Católica de Santos, Santos, Brasil
| | | | - Laio Magno
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
| | | | - Ines Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
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Linfield RY, Nguyen NN, Laprade OH, Holodniy M, Chary A. An update on drug-drug interactions in older adults living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38753455 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2024.2350968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People with HIV are living longer due to advances in antiretroviral therapy. With improved life expectancy comes an increased lifetime risk of comorbid conditions - such as cardiovascular disease and cancer - and polypharmacy. Older adults, particularly those living with HIV, are more vulnerable to drug interactions and adverse effects, resulting in negative health outcomes. AREA COVERED Antiretrovirals are involved in many potential drug interactions with medications used to treat common comorbidities and geriatric conditions in an aging population of people with HIV. We review the mechanisms and management of significant drug-drug interactions involving antiretroviral medications and non-antiretroviral medications commonly used among older people living with HIV. The management of these interactions may require dose adjustments, medication switches to alternatives, enhanced monitoring, and considerations of patient- and disease-specific factors. EXPERT OPINION Clinicians managing comorbid conditions among older people with HIV must be particularly vigilant to side effect profiles, drug-drug interactions, pill burden, and cost when optimizing treatment. To support healthier aging among people living with HIV, there is a growing need for antiretroviral stewardship, multidisciplinary care models, and advances that promote insight into the correlations between an individual, their conditions, and their medications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy N Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, USA
| | - Olivia H Laprade
- Department of Pharmacy, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mark Holodniy
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- National Public Health Program Office, Veterans Health Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Aarthi Chary
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- National Public Health Program Office, Veterans Health Administration, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Kaptchuk RP, Thomas AM, Dhir AM, Solomon SS, Clipman SJ. Need for informed providers: exploring LA-PrEP access in focus groups with PrEP-indicated communities in Baltimore, Maryland. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1258. [PMID: 38720248 PMCID: PMC11077778 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18595-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The approval of long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis PrEP (LA-PrEP) in the United States brings opportunities to overcome barriers of oral PrEP, particularly among sexual and gender minority communities who bear a higher HIV burden. Little is known about real-time decision-making among potential PrEP users of LA-PrEP post-licensure. METHODS We held focus group discussions with people assigned male at birth who have sex with men in Baltimore, Maryland to explore decision-making, values, and priorities surrounding PrEP usage. A sexual and gender minority-affirming health center that provides PrEP services supported recruitment. Discussions included a pile-sorting activity and were audio-recorded. Recordings were transcribed and analyzed iteratively, combining an inductive and deductive approach. RESULTS We held five focus groups from Jan-June 2023 with 23 participants (21 cisgender men who have sex with men, two transgender women who have sex with men; mean age 37). Among participants, 21 were on oral PrEP, one was on injectable PrEP, and one had never taken PrEP. Most had never heard about LA-PrEP. When making decisions about PrEP, participants particularly valued efficacy in preventing HIV, side effects, feeling a sense of security, and ease of use. Perceptions varied between whether oral or injectable PrEP was more convenient, but participants valued the new opportunity for a choice in modality. Factors influencing PrEP access included cost, individual awareness, provider awareness, and level of comfort in a healthcare environment. Participants emphasized how few providers are informed about PrEP, placing the burden of being informed about PrEP on them. Comfort and trust in a provider superseded proximity as considerations for if and where to access PrEP. CONCLUSIONS There is still low awareness about LA-PrEP among sexual and gender minority communities; thus, healthcare providers have a critical role in influencing access to LA-PrEP. Despite this, providers are still vastly underinformed about PrEP and underprepared to support clients in contextualized ways. Clients are more likely to engage in care with affirming providers who offer non-judgmental conversations about sex and life experiences. Provider education in the United States is urgently needed to better support clients in choosing a PrEP modality that is right for them and supporting adherence for effective HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amber M Thomas
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Sunil S Solomon
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Psaros C, Goodman GR, Lee JS, Rice W, Kelley CF, Oyedele T, Coelho LE, Phanuphak N, Singh Y, Middelkoop K, Griffith S, McCauley M, Rooney J, Rinehart AR, Clark J, Go V, Sugarman J, Fields SD, Adeyeye A, Grinsztejn B, Landovitz RJ, Safren SA. HPTN 083-02: factors influencing adherence to injectable PrEP and retention in an injectable PrEP study. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26252. [PMID: 38783534 PMCID: PMC11116478 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HPTN 083 demonstrated the superiority of long-acting cabotegravir (CAB-LA) versus daily oral emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF/FTC) as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among cisgender men and transgender women who have sex with men (MSM/TGW). HPTN 083 provided the first opportunity to understand experiences with injectable PrEP in a clinical trial. METHODS Participants from two US sites (Chicago, IL and Atlanta, GA) and one international site (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) were purposively sampled for individual qualitative interviews (N = 40), between November 2019 and March 2020, to explore trial experiences, barriers to adherence and other factors that may have impacted study implementation or outcomes. The blinded phase ended early due to efficacy; this analysis includes interviews conducted prior to unblinding with three groups defined by adherence (i.e. injection visit attendance): adherent (n = 27), non-adherent (n = 12) and early discontinuers (n = 1). Data were organized using NVivo software and analysed using content analysis. RESULTS Participants (mean age: 27) were primarily cisgender MSM (90%) and Black/African American (60%). Reasons for trial enrolment and PrEP use included a preference for using HIV prevention medication versus treatment in the event of HIV acquisition; the ability to enhance health via study-related education and services; access to a novel, convenient HIV prevention product at no cost; and contributing to MSM/TGW communities through research. Participants contrasted positive experiences with study staff with their routine clinical care, and emphasized increased scheduling flexibility, thorough communication, non-judgemental counselling and open, affirming environments (e.g. compassion, less stigma) as adherence facilitators. Injection experiences were positive overall; some described early injection-related anxiety, which abated with time and when given some measure of control (e.g. pre-injection countdown), and minimal injection site discomfort. Some concerns and misperceptions about injectable PrEP were reported. Barriers to adherence, across all adherence categories, included structural factors (e.g. financial constraints, travel) and competing demands (e.g. work schedules). CONCLUSIONS Respondents viewed injectable PrEP trial participation as a positive experience and a means of enhancing wellbeing. Study site flexibility and affirming clinic environments, inclusive of non-judgemental counselling, were key facilitators of adherence. To support injection persistence, interventions that address structural barriers and promote flexible means of injection delivery may be most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Psaros
- Department of PsychiatryMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Georgia R. Goodman
- Department of PsychiatryMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Emergency MedicineBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jasper S. Lee
- Department of PsychiatryMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Whitney Rice
- Department of BehavioralSocial and Health Education SciencesEmory University Rollins School of Public HealthAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Colleen F. Kelley
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | | | - Lara E. Coelho
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas‐FiocruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Nittaya Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and InnovationBangkokThailand
- Center of Excellence in Transgender HealthChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - Yashna Singh
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Keren Middelkoop
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Jesse Clark
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Vivian Go
- Department of Health BehaviorUniversity of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Jeremy Sugarman
- Berman Institute of Bioethics and School of MedicineJohns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Sheldon D. Fields
- Ross and Carol Nese College of NursingThe Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Adeola Adeyeye
- Nigeria Country OfficeUS Centers for Disease Control and PreventionAbujaNigeria
| | - Beatriz Grinsztejn
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas‐FiocruzRio de JaneiroBrazil
| | - Raphael J. Landovitz
- Center for Clinical AIDS Research and EducationDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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Olakunde BO, Ujam C, Ndukwe CD, Falola-Anoemuah Y, Olaifa Y, Oladele TT, Yahaya HB, Ogundipe A. Barriers to the uptake of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis among young key populations in Nigeria. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:346-351. [PMID: 38105179 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231220099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young key populations (YKP) contribute to the burden of HIV in Nigeria and are a priority population for oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, their uptake of PrEP remains low. We assessed the main barriers to PrEP uptake and the variation among YKP (15-24 years) in Nigeria. METHODS This study was a secondary data analysis of the 2020 Integrated Biological & Behavioural Surveillance Survey conducted among key populations (KP), including female sex workers (FSW), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), and transgender people (TG), in 12 states in Nigeria. A closed-ended question asking the main reason for not taking PrEP among KP who had never taken PrEP was included in the surveillance questionnaire. We collapsed the responses into six barrier themes. Using multinomial logistic regression analysis, we examined the association between the barriers (dependent variable) and KP group (independent variable), controlling for age, educational attainment, religion, marital status, employment status, and geopolitical zone. RESULTS A total of 1776 YKP were included in this study. The most cited barriers by KP group were: lack of access (28.3%) and fear of side effects (28.3%) by FSW; lack of interest (37.1%) by MSM; low risk perception (65.5%) by PWID; and lack of access (34.4%) by TG. The odds of reporting fear of side effects, lack of access, lack of interest, and nonspecific/others reasons were significantly different by KP group. CONCLUSIONS The barriers limiting the uptake of PrEP among YKP vary by KP group. Our results highlight the need for KP-specific interventions to improve the uptake of PrEP among YKP in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babayemi O Olakunde
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
- Center for Translation and Implementation Research, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Chukwugozie Ujam
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Chinwedu D Ndukwe
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
- African Institute of Health Policy and Health Systems, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Yinka Falola-Anoemuah
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Yewande Olaifa
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Tolulope T Oladele
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Hidayat B Yahaya
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Alex Ogundipe
- Department of Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
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Bleasdale J, McCole M, Cole K, Hequembourg A, Morse GD, Przybyla SM. Perspectives on Injectable HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis: A Qualitative Study of Health Care Providers in the United States. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:177-184. [PMID: 38656214 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2024.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The introduction of injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has the potential to significantly change the biomedical HIV prevention landscape. However, effective implementation will require health care providers to adopt, prescribe, and administer injectable PrEP within clinical settings. This study qualitatively examined challenges and benefit of injectable PrEP implementation from the perspective of health care providers. From April to August 2022, we conducted 19 in-depth interviews with current PrEP-prescribing health care providers in New York State, including 3 physician assistants, 5 physicians, and 11 nurse practitioners. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed to report semantic-level themes regarding injectable PrEP implementation. More than half of participants (61%) were aware of injectable PrEP; only 21% had experience prescribing it. Qualitative findings highlighted five themes. Three themes represented implementation challenges, including speculative concerns about side effects, appointment compliance, and practical and logistical considerations. The remaining two themes described benefits of injectable PrEP relative to oral PrEP, which included greater convenience and enhanced privacy. Findings from this qualitative study make significant applied contributions to the sparse knowledge on health care provider perspectives of injectable PrEP post-US Food and Drug Administration approval and their concerns and considerations regarding implementation in real-world clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Bleasdale
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Southern HIV and Alcohol Research Consortium (SHARC), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Meghan McCole
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Kenneth Cole
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Amy Hequembourg
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Gene D Morse
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Center for Integrated Global Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Sarahmona M Przybyla
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Keddem S, Thatipelli S, Caceres O, Roder N, Momplaisir F, Cronholm P. Barriers and Facilitators to Long-Acting Injectable HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Implementation in Primary Care Since Its Approval in the United States. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:370-376. [PMID: 38133586 PMCID: PMC10932839 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective method to mitigate the HIV epidemic, but uptake of PrEP has been slow and is associated with racial and gender disparities. Oral PrEP requires high levels of adherence to be effective, which may disadvantage certain high-risk groups. The first injectable HIV PrEP, a drug given every 2 months rather than as a daily pill, was approved by the US Food & Drug Administration in December 2021. SETTING A Family Medicine practice in a single health organization in the United States (November 2022 to February 2023). METHODS We conducted interviews with patients and key stakeholders to characterize factors affecting long-acting injectable (LAI) PrEP implementation. Data collection and analysis were guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using guided content analysis. RESULTS Twenty-five patients (n = 13) and practice stakeholders (n = 12) were interviewed. Overall, stakeholders described a very low uptake of LAI PrEP. Barriers to LAI PrEP included a lack of awareness, insurance and access issues, a lack of streamlined workflow, and a trust in pills over injectables. Facilitators to LAI PrEP implementation included the absence of a pill burden, a culture of shared decision making, and pharmacy support. CONCLUSIONS Although uptake has been slow, we have identified several promising strategies for improving rollout and implementation of LAI PrEP. Approaches that can bolster rollout of LAI PrEP include having an interdisciplinary care team that is supported by PrEP navigators and pharmacists and are informed by a patient-centered model of care to increase patient engagement and trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimrit Keddem
- Center for Health Equity, Research and Promotion (CHERP), Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Public Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sneha Thatipelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Omaris Caceres
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Navid Roder
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Florence Momplaisir
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Peter Cronholm
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Public Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Lee JE, Murchison K, Hassanein L, Peters D, Jacomino M, Luck G. Trends in HIV-Related Services Offered by Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities. Cureus 2024; 16:e57400. [PMID: 38694649 PMCID: PMC11062491 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the United States, persons who inject drugs (PWID) represent an increasingly vulnerable population, with a high risk of HIV transmission related to needle sharing. This paper aims to investigate the availability of HIV-related services within substance abuse treatment facilities while emphasizing the need for implementing comprehensive harm-reduction strategies in such facilities. Methods This study explores the prevalence and trends regarding HIV-related services within substance abuse treatment facilities in the United States including testing, counseling, early intervention, and medication provision. Data from the National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS) were analyzed in order to assess trends in HIV-related services from 2013 to 2020. Results Facility response rates revealed an increase in the availability of HIV testing and specialized programs for individuals with HIV. However, there was a contrasting trend with the decline in early intervention and counseling services, only with a slight increase in 2020. Additionally, government-owned facilities demonstrated superior performance in delivering HIV services compared to private facilities. Conclusion This study highlights the dire need for implementing routine opt-out HIV testing within substance abuse treatment facilities in order to identify new cases. Additionally emphasized is the importance of early intervention for this at-risk population. To effectively address these challenges, we suggest considering the adoption of the "Seek, Test, Treat, Retain" model as a potential solution. Increasing access to HIV-related services within substance abuse facilities requires enhanced resource allocation as well as integrated programs. Identifying deficiencies in HIV service integration is crucial to enhancing care and reducing HIV transmission among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordyn E Lee
- Medicine, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
| | - Kyle Murchison
- Medicine, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
| | - Lillian Hassanein
- Medicine, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
| | - Darian Peters
- Medicine, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
| | - Mario Jacomino
- Women's and Children's Health, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
| | - George Luck
- Integrated Medical Science, Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, USA
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12
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Rutstein SE, Muessig KE. Leveling Up PrEP: Implementation Strategies at System and Structural Levels to Expand PrEP Use in the United States. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:52-61. [PMID: 38517670 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00697-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite highly effective biomedical HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) options, suboptimal PrEP uptake impedes progress towards ending the epidemic in the United States of America (USA). Implementation science bridges what we know works in controlled clinical trial settings to the context and environment in which efficacious tools are intended to be deployed. In this review, we focus on strategies that target PrEP use barriers at the system or structural level, exploring the implications and opportunities in the context of the fragmented USA healthcare system. RECENT FINDINGS Task shifting could increase PrEP prescribers, but effectiveness evidence is scarce in the USA, and generally focused in urban settings. Integration of PrEP within existing healthcare infrastructure concentrates related resources, but demonstration projects rarely present the resource implications of redirecting staff. Changing the site of service via expanded telehealth could improve access to more rural populations, though internet connectivity, technology access, and challenges associated with determining biomedical eligibility remain logistical barriers for some of the highest burden communities in the USA. Finally, a tailored care navigation and coordination approach has emerged as a highly effective component of PrEP service provision, attempting to directly modify the system-level determinants of PrEP use experienced by the individual. We highlight recent advances and evidence surrounding task shifting, integration, service delivery, and tailoring. With the exception of tailored care navigation, evidence is mixed, and the downstream impact and sustainability of task shifting and care integration require further attention. To maximize PrEP outcomes, research will need to continue to examine the interplay between individuals, clinics, and the healthcare system and associated policies within which they operate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Rutstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina, 130 Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Kathryn E Muessig
- Institute On Digital Health and Innovation, College of Nursing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
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13
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Mekonnen G, Liknaw T, Anley A, Afenigus AD. Knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors towards HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among health care providers. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6168. [PMID: 38485990 PMCID: PMC10940609 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56371-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The knowledge and attitudes of health care providers were limited as reviewed in many studies. Attitudes and knowledge about pre-exposure prophylaxis among healthcare providers have not been investigated in Ethiopia even though pre-exposure prophylaxis is a novel healthcare topic. The aim was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and associated factors towards pre-exposure prophylaxis among healthcare providers in Gojjam health facilities, North West Ethiopia, 2022. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1-30 among 410 healthcare providers in public health facilities in the East Gojjam zone. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit the required study participants. The statistical program EPI Data version 4.6 was used to enter the data, and statistical packages for Social science version 25 was used for analysis. Variables with a p-value less than 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were included in the multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistical significance was determined with a p-value less than 0.05. The good knowledge and the favorable attitude of healthcare providers toward HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis were 55.7% (50.6-60.2%) and 60.2% (55.0-65.0%) respectively. male participant (AOR 1.67; 95% CI (1.01-2.55), service year ≥ 10 years (AOR 2.52; 95% CI (1.23-5.17), favorable attitudes (AOR 1.92; 95%CI (1.25-2.95), and providers good sexual behavior (AOR 1.85; 95%CI (1.21-2.82) were significantly associated with the good knowledge, and training (AOR 2.15; 95% CI (1.23-3.76), reading the guideline (AOR 1.66; 95% CI (1.02-2.70), and good knowledge (AOR 1.78; 95% CI (1.16-2.75) was significantly associated with the favorable attitudes. In general, the finding of this study shows that the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers were low. Since this is a new initiative their knowledge is lower than their attitudes. Male, service year 10 years, and good provider sexual behavior were factors significantly associated with good knowledge. Training, reading the guidelines, and good knowledge were factors significantly associated with a favorable attitudes. As a result, healthcare facilities intervention programs and strategies better target these factors to improve the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare providers. Preparing training programs to enhance knowledge and attitudes towards PrEP is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Getachew Mekonnen
- Department of Nursing, Shebel Berenta Hospital, Shebel Berenta, Ethiopia.
| | - Tiliksew Liknaw
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Anley
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Dilie Afenigus
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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14
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Devlin SA, Johnson AK, Stanford KA, Haider S, Ridgway JP. "There hasn't been a push to identify patients in the emergency department"-Staff perspectives on automated identification of candidates for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): A qualitative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300540. [PMID: 38483939 PMCID: PMC10939190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Automated algorithms for identifying potential pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) candidates are effective among men, yet often fail to detect cisgender women (hereafter referred to as "women") who would most benefit from PrEP. The emergency department (ED) is an opportune setting for implementing automated identification of PrEP candidates, but there are logistical and practical challenges at the individual, provider, and system level. In this study, we aimed to understand existing processes for identifying PrEP candidates and to explore determinants for incorporating automated identification of PrEP candidates within the ED, with specific considerations for ciswomen, through a focus group and individual interviews with ED staff. From May to July 2021, we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with 4 physicians and a focus group with 4 patient advocates working in a high-volume ED in Chicago. Transcripts were coded using Dedoose software and analyzed for common themes. In our exploratory study, we found three major themes: 1) Limited PrEP knowledge among ED staff, particularly regarding its use in women; 2) The ED does not have a standardized process for assessing HIV risk; and 3) Perspectives on and barriers/facilitators to utilizing an automated algorithm for identifying ideal PrEP candidates. Overall, ED staff had minimal understanding of the need for PrEP among women. However, participants recognized the utility of an electronic medical record (EMR)-based automated algorithm to identify PrEP candidates in the ED. Facilitators to an automated algorithm included organizational support/staff buy-in, patient trust, and dedicated support staff for follow-up/referral to PrEP care. Barriers reported by participants included time constraints, hesitancy among providers to prescribe PrEP due to follow-up concerns, and potential biases or oversight resulting from missing or inaccurate information within the EMR. Further research is needed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of an EMR-based predictive HIV risk algorithm within the ED setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A. Devlin
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Amy K. Johnson
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Kimberly A. Stanford
- Department of Medicine, Section of Emergency Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Sadia Haider
- Department of Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Jessica P. Ridgway
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Guo Y, Westmoreland DA, D'Angelo AB, Mirzayi C, Dearolf M, Ray M, Carneiro PB, Pantalone DW, Carrico AW, Patel VV, Golub SA, Hirshfield S, Hoover DR, Nash D, Grov C. PrEP Uptake and Methamphetamine Use Patterns in a 4-Year U.S. National Prospective Cohort Study of Sexual and Gender Minority People, 2017-2022. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04306-1. [PMID: 38436807 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04306-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Methamphetamine use is on the rise among sexual and gender minority people who have sex with men (SGMSM), escalating their HIV risk. Despite pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) being an effective biomedical HIV prevention tool, its uptake in relation to methamphetamine use patterns in SGMSM has not been studied. In a U.S. cohort study from 2017 to 2022, 6,253 HIV-negative SGMSM indicated for but not using PrEP were followed for four years. Methamphetamine use was categorized (i.e., newly initiated, persistently used, never used, used but quit), and PrEP uptake assessed using generalized estimating equation (GEE), adjusted for attrition. Participants had a median age of 29, with 51.9% White, 11.1% Black, 24.5% Latinx, and 12.5% other races/ethnicities. Over the four years, PrEP use increased from 16.3 to 27.2%. GEE models identified risk factors including housing instability and food insecurity. In contrast, older age, health insurance, clinical indications, and prior PrEP use increased uptake. Notably, Latinx participants were more likely to use PrEP than Whites. Regarding methamphetamine use, those who newly initiated it were more likely to use PrEP compared to non-users. However, those who quit methamphetamine and those who persistently used it had PrEP usage rates comparable to those of non-users. Though PrEP uptake increased, it remained low in SGMSM. Methamphetamine use was associated with PrEP uptake. Healthcare providers should assess methamphetamine use for harm reduction. Prioritizing younger, uninsured SGMSM and addressing basic needs can enhance PrEP uptake and reduce HIV vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Guo
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Drew A Westmoreland
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Medicine & College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alexa B D'Angelo
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chloe Mirzayi
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michelle Dearolf
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Meredith Ray
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Pedro B Carneiro
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - David W Pantalone
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Health Promotion & Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Viraj V Patel
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Health System Bronx, Miami, NY, USA
| | - Sarit A Golub
- Hunter HIV/AIDS Research Team, Department of Psychology, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Donald R Hoover
- Department of Statistics and Biostatistics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Denis Nash
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 W 125th St, 7th Floor mailroom, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
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16
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Zewdie KB, Ngure K, Mwangi M, Mwangi D, Maina S, Etyang L, Maina G, Ogello V, Owidi E, Mugo NR, Baeten JM, Mugwanya KK. Effect of differentiated direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits supported with client HIV self-testing on clinic visit time and early PrEP continuation. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26222. [PMID: 38446643 PMCID: PMC10935714 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Delivery of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being scaled up in Africa, but clinic-level barriers including lengthy clinic visits may threaten client continuation on PrEP. METHODS Between January 2020 and January 2022, we conducted a quasi-experimental evaluation of differentiated direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits at four public health HIV clinics in Kenya. Two clinics implemented the intervention package, which included direct-to-pharmacy for PrEP refill, client HIV self-testing (HIVST), client navigator, and pharmacist-led rapid risk assessment and dispensing. Two other clinics with comparable size and client volume served as contemporaneous controls with the usual clinic flow. PrEP continuation was evaluated by visit attendance and pharmacy refill records, and time and motion studies were conducted to determine time spent in the clinics. Dried blood spots were collected to test for tenofovir-diphosphate (TFV-DP) at random visits. We used logistic regression to assess the intervention effect on PrEP continuation and the Wilcoxon rank sum test to assess the effect on clinic time. RESULTS Overall, 746 clients were enrolled, 366 at control clinics (76 during pre-implementation and 290 during implementation phase), and 380 at direct-to-pharmacy clinics (116 during pre-implementation and 264 during implementation phase). Prior to implementation, the intervention and control clinics were comparable on client characteristics (female: 51% vs. 47%; median age: 33 vs. 33 years) and PrEP continuation (35% vs. 37% at 1 month, and 37% vs. 39% at 3 months). The intervention reduced total time spent at the clinic by 35% (median of 51 minutes at control vs. 33 minutes at intervention clinics; p<0.001), while time spent on HIV testing (20 vs. 20 minutes; p = 0.50) and pharmacy (8 vs. 8 minutes; p = 0.8) was unchanged. PrEP continuation was higher at intervention versus the control clinics: 45% versus 33% at month 1, 34% versus 25% at month 3 and 23% versus 16% at month 6. TFV-DP was detected in 85% (61/72) of samples, similar by the study group (83% vs. 85%). CONCLUSIONS A client-centred PrEP delivery approach with direct-to-pharmacy PrEP refill visits plus client HIVST significantly reduced clinic visit time by more than one-third and improved PrEP continuation in public health HIV clinics in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kidist Belay Zewdie
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Community HealthJomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and TechnologyNairobiKenya
| | - Margaret Mwangi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Dominic Mwangi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Simon Maina
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Lydia Etyang
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Gakuo Maina
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Vallery Ogello
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Emmah Owidi
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Partners in Health Research and DevelopmentCenter for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Jared M. Baeten
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Kenneth K. Mugwanya
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
- Department of Global HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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17
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Liegeon G, Duffy A, Brooks C, Honour H, Pozniak A, Molina JM. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis services, provision, and delivery in the European treatment network of HIV, hepatitis and global emerging infectious diseases (NEAT ID). HIV Med 2024; 25:353-360. [PMID: 38040445 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We conducted a survey to evaluate HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) practices in a European clinical research network on HIV, hepatitis, and global infectious diseases (NEAT ID). METHODS An online survey comprising 22 questions was sent via a secure electronic tool to the investigating physician of each of the 342 NEAT ID study centres across 15 European countries in November 2020. RESULTS In total, 50 sites from 12 countries responded (15% response rate). Most sites were in Western Europe, two were in Poland, and one was in Hungary. Of the responding sites, 45 provided PrEP services for a total of 27 416 PrEP users, with 1361 new PrEP initiators each month. These centres supplied PrEP for men who have sex with men (100%), people who inject drugs (84%), sex workers (84%), women (62%), and transgender women (31%). PrEP persistence after 1 year was >90%, 75%-90%, and 40%-75% in 17, 24, and 4 centres, respectively. In total, 32/45 (71%) centres reported strong community-based organization commitment at their site, and 15/45 (33%) centres developed task-shifting processes to deliver PrEP through nurses (11/15), pharmacists (5/15), and key-population peers (2/15). The biggest barriers to implementation of PrEP were low awareness of and knowledge about PrEP (47%), unwillingness to disclose sexual identity or at-risk behaviour (36%), and lack of administrative support (29%). Of the 45 centres, 32 (71%) have already been involved in PrEP research and 43 (96%) were interested in participating in such studies. CONCLUSIONS The few NEAT ID centres that responded to the survey showed disparities in PrEP deployment and practices despite a common interest in participating in research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffroy Liegeon
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Saint Louis and Lariboisière Hospitals, Paris, France
| | - Annie Duffy
- Research Organisation Kings Cross, London, UK
| | | | | | - Anton Pozniak
- Department of HIV Medicine, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jean Michel Molina
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Saint Louis and Lariboisière Hospitals, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR 944, Paris, France
- Paris Cité University, Paris, France
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18
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Orser L, O’Byrne P. Multiple, active-offer referrals for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis by nurses yields high uptake among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:274-279. [PMID: 38054453 PMCID: PMC10908198 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231220084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current Canadian guidelines focus on indications and uptake of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among groups at-risk for HIV, such as gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (GBM). Less, however, is known about the outcomes of PrEP offers. This study presents on the responses of GBM to multiple offers for PrEP. METHODS In Ottawa, Canada, we instituted Canada's first nurse-led PrEP program, pre-exposure prophylaxis by nurses (PrEP-RN), where nurses offered PrEP referrals to persons with indicators for HIV. Responses to offers from nurses and HIV diagnoses were recorded and assessed for multiple occurrences based on responses. Descriptive analyses were used to report frequencies and percentages of findings and chi-square analyses were conducted to determine significance based on HIV risk for those who accepted versus declined PrEP. RESULTS Over a 4-year period, 644 PrEP offers were made to 236 unique patients, all of whom were GMB, the majority of whom identified as male. Of the eligible patients, 50.8% accepted and 50.0% declined after multiple offers. Seven trajectories were identified in terms of reasons for accepting or declining PrEP. PrEP referrals made based on clinical guidelines and to those who had changes in risk factors over time were significantly correlated with PrEP acceptance. We noted five HIV diagnoses, all of which were among GBM who declined PrEP at least once. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, it appears multiple PrEP may yield increased PrEP acceptance among a sample of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Orser
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Thakarar K, Appa A, Abdul Mutakabbir JC, Goff A, Brown J, Tuell C, Fairfield K, Wurcel A. Frame Shift: Focusing on Harm Reduction and Shared Decision Making for People Who Use Drugs Hospitalized With Infections. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:e12-e26. [PMID: 38018174 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kinna Thakarar
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population & Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Ayesha Appa
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine at San Francisco General Hospital, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jacinda C Abdul Mutakabbir
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of the Black Diaspora and African American Studies, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amelia Goff
- Section of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jessica Brown
- Department of Care Management, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Fairfield
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Interdisciplinary Population & Health Research, MaineHealth Institute for Research, Portland, Maine, USA
- Department of Medicine, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
| | - Alysse Wurcel
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Schnarrs PW, Zuñiga J, Benitez G, Fliedner P, Norwood A, Croll M, Oviedo LDS, Buchorn J, Oeffinger J, Lane R, Schelling E, Pham G, Pate T, Arnold EM. Intention to Use Different Formulations of Longer Acting HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Transgender and Gender Expansive Individuals: The Roles of Social Vulnerability and Medical Mistrust. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2024; 38:51-60. [PMID: 38381948 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2012, the Federal Drug Administration approved daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention in adults. Longer acting injectable PrEP (LA PrEP) has been approved and other formulations are in development. A successful LA PrEP rollout requires examining potential facilitators and barriers to PrEP uptake. Given that transgender and gender expansive (TGE) individuals experience more social vulnerability and higher levels of medical mistrust compared to other populations, examining the role of these two factors in LA PrEP uptake is important. This study, PrEP for ALL, is a community-based participatory research project in Texas that engaged TGE community members and organizational partners through a community advisory board. In total, 482 TGE individuals were recruited and responded to all relevant questions in an online survey, including their intentions to use three formulations: a monthly oral pill, a bimonthly intramuscular injection, and an annual subdermal implant. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the influence of social vulnerability and medical mistrust on intention to use each LA PrEP formulation adjusting for other relevant factors. Findings suggest that individuals with higher levels of social vulnerability had greater intentions to use the monthly oral pill (β = 0.12, p = 0.009), the bimonthly intramuscular injection (β = 0.18, p < 0.001), and annual subdermal implant (β = 0.17, p < 0.001), whereas medical mistrust reduced intentions to use the bimonthly intramuscular injection (β = -0.18, p < 0.001) and annual subdermal implant (β = -0.11, p = 0.021). Improvements in gender-affirming clinical care are needed along with LA PrEP formulations that allow for greater autonomy and reduced clinical contact. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT05044286.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip W Schnarrs
- Department of Population Health, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Julie Zuñiga
- School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Gabrielle Benitez
- Department of Population Health, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Paul Fliedner
- Department of Population Health, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Aliza Norwood
- Department of Population Health, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Madeleine Croll
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas, USA
| | | | - Jacey Buchorn
- Department of Sociology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Rocky Lane
- Transgender Education Network of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Gin Pham
- Transgender Education Network of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - TreShaun Pate
- Transgender Education Network of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Arnold
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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21
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Nydegger LA, Kidane H, Benitez S, Yuan M, Claborn KR. A Qualitative Exploration of PrEP Interests, Barriers, and Interventions Among Black and Latina Cisgender Women in the U.S. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:771-783. [PMID: 37796358 PMCID: PMC10844362 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02712-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Black and Latina cisgender women (BLCW) are disproportionally affected by HIV, particularly in the southern U.S. In Austin, Texas, Black women contract HIV 18.4 times more and Latinas 2.6 times more compared to White women. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medication that prevents contracting HIV; however, PrEP adoption among women is low. The current qualitative study aimed to explore PrEP awareness, interest, preferred PrEP administration methods, barriers to PrEP adoption, and future programs to increase PrEP adoption and adherence among BLCW. A total of 18 BLCW at high risk for HIV were enrolled. Participants completed 3 semi-structured interviews across 3 months. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results demonstrated that BLCW had low PrEP awareness, high initial PrEP interest, and were interested in a long-acting injectable form of PrEP. Barriers to PrEP adoption included concerns regarding side effects, concerns about adherence to the currently available daily pill, and difficulty with insurance. Participants proposed different ideas for interventions, including support groups, education, community-level programs, and structural interventions. Future studies should focus on increasing PrEP awareness and HIV risk, consider alternative forms of PrEP, educate providers and medical staff on PrEP, and consider tailored interventions to reduce HIV risk among BLCW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesl A Nydegger
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Hampton House, 624 N. Broadway Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Heran Kidane
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Sabrina Benitez
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mandy Yuan
- School of Human Ecology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kasey R Claborn
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, USA
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22
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Watson DL, Listerud L, Drab RA, Lin WY, Momplaisir FM, Bauermeister JA. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis programme preferences among sexually active HIV-negative transgender and gender diverse adults in the United States: a conjoint analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26211. [PMID: 38332521 PMCID: PMC10853582 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current implementation efforts have failed to achieve equitable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) provision for transgender and gender-diverse (trans) populations. We conducted a choice-based conjoint analysis to measure preferences for key attributes of hypothetical PrEP delivery programmes among a diverse online sample predominantly comprised of transmasculine and nonbinary individuals in the United States. METHODS Between April 2022 and June 2022, a national online survey with an embedded conjoint analysis experiment was conducted among 304 trans individuals aged ≥18 years in the United States to assess five PrEP programme attributes: out-of-pocket cost; dispensing venue; frequency of visits for PrEP-related care; travel time to PrEP provider; and ability to bundle PrEP-related care with gender-affirming hormone therapy services. Participants responded to five questions, each of which presented two PrEP programme scenarios and one opt-out option per question and selected their preferred programme in each question. We used hierarchical Bayes estimation and multinomial logistic regression to measure part-worth utility scores for the total sample and by respondents' PrEP status. RESULTS The median age was 24 years (range 18-56); 75% were assigned female sex at birth; 54% identified as transmasculine; 32% as nonbinary; 14% as transfeminine. Out-of-pocket cost had the highest attribute importance score (44.3%), followed by the ability to bundle with gender-affirming hormone therapy services (18.7%). Minimal cost-sharing ($0 out-of-pocket cost) most positively influenced the attribute importance of cost (average conjoint part-worth utility coefficient of 2.5 [95% CI 2.4-2.6]). PrEP-experienced respondents preferred PrEP delivery in primary care settings (relative utility score 4.7); however, PrEP-naïve respondents preferred pharmacies (relative utility score 5.1). CONCLUSIONS Participants preferred programmes that offered PrEP services without cost-sharing and bundled with gender-affirming hormone therapy services. Bolstering federal regulations to cover PrEP services and prioritizing programmes to expand low-barrier PrEP provision are critical to achieving equitable PrEP provision. Community-engaged implementation research conducted by and in close collaboration with trans community stakeholders and researchers are needed to streamline the design of patient-centred PrEP programmes and develop implementation strategies that are salient to the diverse sexual health needs of trans patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dovie L. Watson
- Department of Medicine (Infectious Diseases)University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Louis Listerud
- Department of Family and Community HealthUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ryan A. Drab
- Department of Family and Community HealthUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Willey Y. Lin
- Department of Family and Community HealthUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Florence Marie Momplaisir
- Department of Medicine (Infectious Diseases)University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of MedicinePhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - José A. Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community HealthUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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23
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Rotsaert A, Vanhamel J, Vanbaelen T, Vuylsteke B, van der Loeff MS, Hensen B, Kielmann K, Callens S, Reyniers T. HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Care in Belgium: A mixed-methods Study on PrEP Users' Experiences and Service Delivery Preferences. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:393-407. [PMID: 38038778 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04232-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
In Belgium, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services are mainly provided through specialised HIV clinics. To optimise PrEP uptake and retention in care, we require insights into users' perspectives on PrEP care. We aimed to elicit experiences with, and preferences for, PrEP service delivery among PrEP users in Belgium, including willingness to involve their family physician (FP) in PrEP care. We adopted a sequential mixed-methods design. We used a web-based longitudinal study among 326 PrEP users that consisted of two questionnaires at six-month intervals, and complemented this with 21 semi-structured interviews (September 2020-January 2022). We conducted descriptive analyses and logistic regression to examine factors associated with willingness to involve their FP in PrEP care. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Survey respondents reported high satisfaction with care received in HIV clinics [median score 9 (IQR 8-10), 10='very satisfied']. Interviews revealed the importance of regular HIV/STI screening, and the expertise and stigma-free environment of HIV clinics. Yet, they also contextualised service delivery barriers reported in the questionnaire, including the burden of cost and challenges integrating PrEP visits into their private and professional lives. Although 63.8% (n = 208/326) of baseline respondents preferred attending an HIV clinic for PrEP follow-up, 51.9% (n = 108/208) of participants in the follow-up questionnaire reported to be willing to have their FP involved in PrEP care. Participants reporting trust in FPs' PrEP and sexual health expertise, or who didn't feel judged by their FP, were more likely to be willing to involve them in PrEP care. Therefore, we recommend a differentiated PrEP service delivery approach, including involving FPs, to make PrEP care more client-centred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Rotsaert
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Jef Vanhamel
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium.
| | - Thibaut Vanbaelen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bea Vuylsteke
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Maarten Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AII), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute (APH), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bernadette Hensen
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Karina Kielmann
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
| | - Steven Callens
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thijs Reyniers
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, Antwerp, B-2000, Belgium
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24
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Flynn S, Adamo M, Kochanska M, Garcia-Grossman I. Initiating pre-exposure prophylaxis in the inpatient setting: a quality improvement project. BMJ Open Qual 2024; 13:e002416. [PMID: 38232981 PMCID: PMC10806652 DOI: 10.1136/bmjoq-2023-002416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Many patients who are at high risk of HIV transmission do not receive pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). HIV risk counselling and PrEP initiation have historically been limited to outpatient settings. Here we describe a novel quality improvement project at San Francisco's main safety-net hospital designed to incorporate universal screening for active HIV risk factors and PrEP initiation into standard inpatient care. Interventions included education sessions and dissemination of clinical materials to increase providers' knowledge and comfort with HIV risk screening, prevention counselling and prescribing PrEP. We implemented new workflows on the inpatient medicine service to encourage providers to universally screen all patients at the time of admission and initiate PrEP for appropriate patients during their hospitalisation. Over the first 9 months of the initiative, 14 inpatients were started on PrEP during their admission. As PrEP was initiated in particularly vulnerable patients, using inpatient admissions to engage at-risk patients in HIV prevention may help to reduce disparities in HIV outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Flynn
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Meredith Adamo
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Marta Kochanska
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ilana Garcia-Grossman
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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25
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Sewak A, Lodi S, Li X, Shu D, Wen L, Mayer KH, Krakower DS, Young JG, Marcus JL. Causal Effects of Stochastic PrEP Interventions on HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men. Am J Epidemiol 2024; 193:6-16. [PMID: 37073419 PMCID: PMC10773485 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwad097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiretroviral preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in preventing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, but uptake has been limited and inequitable. Although interventions to increase PrEP uptake are being evaluated in clinical trials among men who have sex with men (MSM), those trials cannot evaluate effects on HIV incidence. Estimates from observational studies of the causal effects of PrEP-uptake interventions on HIV incidence can inform decisions about intervention scale-up. We used longitudinal electronic health record data from HIV-negative MSM accessing care at Fenway Health, a community health center in Boston, Massachusetts, from January 2012 through February 2018, with 2 years of follow-up. We considered stochastic interventions that increased the chance of initiating PrEP in several high-priority subgroups. We estimated the effects of these interventions on population-level HIV incidence using a novel inverse-probability weighted estimator of the generalized g-formula, adjusting for baseline and time-varying confounders. Our results suggest that even modest increases in PrEP initiation in high-priority subgroups of MSM could meaningfully reduce HIV incidence in the overall population of MSM. Interventions tailored to Black and Latino MSM should be prioritized to maximize equity and impact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Julia L Marcus
- Correspondence to Dr. Julia L. Marcus, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute Boston, MA 02215 (e-mail: )
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26
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Dawit R, Predmore Z, Raifman J, Chan PA, Skinner A, Napoleon S, Zanowick-Marr A, Le Brazidec D, Almonte A, Dean LT. Identifying HIV PrEP Attributes to Increase PrEP Use Among Different Groups of Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Latent Class Analysis of a Discrete Choice Experiment. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:125-134. [PMID: 37474623 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04131-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Daily pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), although uptake remains suboptimal. By identifying the features of PrEP that appeal to various subgroups of GBMSM, this study aimed to improve PrEP uptake by examining preferences for PrEP use. Adults ≥ 18 years old in six New England states completed an online discrete choice experiment survey. A latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted to identify groups of GBMSM based on four attributes of choices for PrEP (cost, time, side effects, and mode of administration). Multinominal logistic regression was conducted to compare the association between sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics and class memberships. Data from 675 GBMSM were analyzed. A 3-Class model was selected as the best fit model. Class 1 (47.7% of individuals) was identified as having "no specific preferences". Class 2 (18.5% of individuals) were "Cost- and time-conscious" and were significantly more likely to be older, have prior sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, have low household income, private insurance, and have extreme concerns about HIV risk than those with no specific preference (Class 1). Finally, Class 3 (34.1% of individuals) were "Side effects-conscious" and were more likely to have low income, private insurance, and have moderate and extreme concerns about HIV risk than those with no specific preference (Class 1). Findings indicate that outreach to GBMSM who have never used PrEP should emphasize low cost and short travel times to increase potential PrEP use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Dawit
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | | | - Julia Raifman
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Philip A Chan
- Brown University AIDS Program, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, 02906, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Alexandra Skinner
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Siena Napoleon
- Brown University AIDS Program, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, 02906, USA
| | | | | | - Alexi Almonte
- Brown University AIDS Program, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, 02906, USA
| | - Lorraine T Dean
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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27
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Ekholuenetale M, Rahman SA, Nzoputam CI, Okungbowa OG, Barrow A. Prevalence and factors associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness among cisgender women of reproductive age in Burkina Faso. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241259350. [PMID: 38813873 PMCID: PMC11143873 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241259350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV remains a global public health concern, and women continue to be disproportionately affected. Understanding the factors associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness among women is crucial as an effective HIV prevention strategy. OBJECTIVES We investigated the prevalence and associated factors of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness among women in Burkina Faso. DESIGN This was a cross-section study that used population-based data. METHODS A total of 17,659 women of reproductive age (15-49 years) from the 2021 Burkina Faso Demographic and Health Survey were analyzed. Percentage and multivariable logistic regression model were used to examine the prevalence and factors associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness. RESULTS The prevalence of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness was 8.2% (95% confidence interval = 7.8%-8.6%). Women's age was positively associated pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness. Women with primary and secondary education had 39% and 48% higher odds of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, when compared with women with no formal education. The odds of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness were 1.40 (95% confidence interval = 1.19-1.66) times higher among Christians when compared with the Muslims. Women who were exposed to mass media including newspaper or magazine, radio, TV, and Internet had higher odds of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, when compared with those without exposure to mass media channels. Women who have previously tested for HIV had 37% higher odds of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, when compared with those who have not been tested (adjusted odds ratio = 1.37; 95% confidence interval = 1.09-1.72). CONCLUSION This study found women's age, geographical region, education, religion, exposure to mass media channels, employment, and HIV testing to be associated with pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness. These findings can inform the development of targeted interventions and public health campaigns to increase awareness and practice to pre-exposure prophylaxis, particularly among key population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ekholuenetale
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Semiu Adebayo Rahman
- Department of Demography and Social Statistics, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Chimezie Igwegbe Nzoputam
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
- Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation, Department of Public Health, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Osaretin Godspower Okungbowa
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
- National Institute for Legislative & Democratic Studies, National Assembly, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Amadou Barrow
- Department of Public and Environmental Health, School of Medicine & Allied Health Sciences, The University of the Gambia, Sere Kunda, The Gambia
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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28
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Hudrudchai S, Suwanwong C, Prasittichok P, Mohan KP, Janeaim N. Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Adherence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Prev Med Public Health 2024; 57:8-17. [PMID: 38147821 PMCID: PMC10861324 DOI: 10.3961/jpmph.23.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effectiveness and efficiency of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in reducing the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) relies on how widely it is adopted and adhered to, particularly among high-risk groups of MSM. The meta-analysis aimed to collect and analyze existing evidence on various factors related to PrEP adherence in MSM, including demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, substance use, and psychosocial factors. METHODS The meta-analysis followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The search included articles published between January 2018 and December 2022, obtained from the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases. The studies that were included in the analysis reported the proportion of MSM who demonstrated adherence to PrEP and underwent quality appraisal using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS Of the 268 studies initially identified, only 12 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final meta-analysis. The findings indicated that education (odds ratio [OR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12 to 2.40), number of sexual partners (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.31), engaging in sexual activities with an human immunodeficiency virus-positive partner (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.16 to 2.26), substance use (OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.99), and lower levels of depression (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.82) were associated with higher rates of PrEP adherence among MSM. CONCLUSIONS Despite these findings, further research is necessary to investigate PrEP adherence more comprehensively. The findings of this meta-analysis can be utilized to inform interventions aimed at improving PrEP adherence among MSM and provide directions for future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Hudrudchai
- Faculty of Nursing, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani, Thailand
- Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Charin Suwanwong
- Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pitchada Prasittichok
- Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanu Priya Mohan
- Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nopphadol Janeaim
- Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, Thailand
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29
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Sophus AI, Mitchell JW, Barroso J, Sales JM. Factors Associated with Planned Future Use of PrEP in the Next 3 Months and Likelihood to Use PrEP Among Black Cisgender HIV-negative Women in Texas. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:72-92. [PMID: 37768428 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04188-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Identifying and then addressing barriers and leveraging facilitators is important to help increase pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use among Black women vulnerable to HIV acquisition. The present cross-sectional study examined what factors were associated with future plans to use PrEP, and general likelihood to use it among a convenience sample of 152 adult, Black cisgender women from three metropolitan areas in Texas. The final multivariable logistic regression model revealed that relationship status (aOR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05-0.73, p < 0.05), PrEP anticipated stigma (aOR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.10-0.78, p < 0.05), perceived discrimination (aOR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.21-0.78, p < 0.01) and interest in learning more about PrEP (aOR = 5.32, 95% CI: 2.60-10.9, p < 0.001) were associated with future plans to use PrEP. The final multivariable linear regression model with maximum likelihood estimation identified that perceived discrimination (β=-0.24, SE: -0.38 - -0.10, p < 0.01), perceived HIV risk (β = 0.33, SE: 0.18-0.49, p < 0.001), willingness to use PrEP with condoms (β = 1.26, SE: 0.94-1.60, p < 0.001), and comfort communicating about PrEP with a provider (β = 0.23, SE: 0.06-0.41, p < 0.01) were associated with general likelihood to use PrEP. Findings reveal key factors that warrant further attention and examination toward improving PrEP use within this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber I Sophus
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, AHC5, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| | - Jason W Mitchell
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, AHC5, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Julie Barroso
- School of Nursing, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jessica McDermott Sales
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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30
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Sterrett-Hong EM, Smith AB, Bullock NA, Combs RM, Krigger K, Kerr J. Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and PrEP intentions among Black American young adults at high-risk for HIV. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2024; 29:100-111. [PMID: 37743543 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2023.2259639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Black Americans bear the greatest burden of HIV, accounting for 43% of new diagnoses. Yet Black Americans also evidence the lowest utilization rates of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a highly effective biomedical strategy for preventing HIV infection. Predictors of PrEP acceptance vary; however, little is known about psychological distress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, as a predictor. DESIGN In this cross-sectional study, n = 195 Black Americans, evidencing behaviors found in the research literature to heighten risk for contracting HIV (e.g. sex work, injection drug use) ages 18-29, 55% cisgender women, 39.5% cisgender men, 3% transgender/non-binary, completed audio-computer-assisted self-interviews. RESULTS Bivariate analyses indicated significant positive associations between PTSD symptoms and PrEP acceptance and self-confidence. In multinomial logistic regression analyses, after controlling for Perceived HIV Risk, participants had a higher likelihood of responding they 'probably would' take PrEP (as opposed to 'definitely would not' take PrEP) if they reported higher levels of PTSD symptoms. Post-hoc analyses revealed a curvilinear relationship between PTSD symptoms and PrEP acceptance with those reporting the highest level of PTSD in the sample having slightly lower PrEP acceptance than those reporting moderately high levels of PTSD. CONCLUSION Findings are discussed in the context of the negative impacts of high levels of PTSD and potential positive adaptations subsequent to moderate levels of PTSD that could be relevant to advances in HIV prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Sterrett-Hong
- Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
| | - Adrienne B Smith
- School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
| | - Nana Ama Bullock
- School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
| | - Ryan M Combs
- School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
| | - Karen Krigger
- School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
| | - Jelani Kerr
- School of Public Health and Information Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, USA
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31
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Pereira M, Castro CTD, Magno L, Oliveira TDA, Gomes FS, Neves FMF, Nascimento PRDSD, Dourado I. Adverse effects of daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis in men who have sex with men and transgender women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2023; 39Suppl 1:e00089522. [PMID: 38088646 PMCID: PMC10712916 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xen089522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The adverse effects of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) using tenofovir disoproxil fumarate are barriers to PrEP initiation and continuation. Although serious effects are rare and predictable, evidence for this assessment among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) is still limited. This study assesses the adverse effects of daily oral PrEP in MSM and TGW. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials and cohort studies on the use of daily oral PrEP selected from the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases. Data extraction included adverse effects and changes in renal and hepatic markers. Random effects models were used to summarize the risk of adverse effects throughout the study. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran's Q test and the inconsistency test (I2). The risk of bias and the certainty of the evidence were assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration recommendations. The search identified 653 references. Of these, 10 were selected. All studies assessed the eligibility of renal and hepatic markers. The use of daily oral PrEP was not associated with grade 3 or 4 adverse events (RR = 0.99; 95%CI: 0.83-1.18; I2 = 26.1%), any serious adverse event (RR = 1.04; 95%CI: 0.58-1.87; I2 = 88.4%), grade 3+4 creatinine level (RR = 0.66; 95%CI: 0.24-1.84; I2 = 79.9%), and grade 3 or 4 hypophosphatemia (RR = 0.56; 95%CI: 0.15-2.10). The certainty of the evidence ranged from high to moderate for the outcomes analyzed. Daily oral PrEP is safe and well tolerated by MSM and TGW. Adverse effects were minimal and evenly distributed between intervention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Pereira
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
| | | | - Laio Magno
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
- Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Ines Dourado
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brasil
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Aidoo-Frimpong G, Abu-Ba’are GR, Apreku A, Amoh-Otu RP, Zigah E, Amu-Adu P, Amuah S, Nyblade L, Torpey K, Nelson LE. "We have our reasons": Exploring the acceptability of pre-exposure prophylaxis among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in Ghana. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.12.05.23299515. [PMID: 38105990 PMCID: PMC10723517 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.05.23299515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Ghanaian men who have sex with men (MSM) face significant HIV disparities. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective tool for HIV prevention. Previous studies on the perspectives of PrEP use among Ghanaian MSM identified high interest in PrEP among this population. However, the knowledge from the previous research, which was the best available evidence at the time, was primarily hypothetical because those data were collected before any real-world implementation of PrEP in Ghana. The purpose of the analysis is to identify and understand the factors currently influencing PrEP acceptance. We conducted a secondary analysis of focus group (n=8) data with Ghanaian MSM. Audio transcripts were subjected to descriptive thematic analysis. There was an almost universal awareness of PrEP, but inaccuracies about PrEP were common. PrEP acceptability was influenced by a mix of individual and intrapersonal factors. To bridge the gap between awareness, knowledge, and acceptability, HIV prevention programs should address access barriers and incorporate community-derived strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Aidoo-Frimpong
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
| | - Gamji Rabiu Abu-Ba’are
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- Behavioral, Sexual, and Global Health Lab, School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Amos Apreku
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Edem Zigah
- Priorities on Rights and Sexual Health, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Samuel Amuah
- Youth Alliance for Health and Human Rights, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Kwasi Torpey
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - LaRon E. Nelson
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven CT, USA
- Social and Behavioral Sciences Division, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven CT, USA
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Devlin SA, Ridgway JP, Dawdani A, Enaholo OE, Liegeon G, Kasal N, Pyra M, Hirschhorn LR, Simon J, Haider S, Ducheny K, Johnson AK. Adapting Provider Training and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Advertising to Increase Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Awareness and Uptake Among Black Cisgender Women. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:574-582. [PMID: 38011350 PMCID: PMC10732154 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Black cisgender women (hereafter referred to as "women") have disproportionately high rates of HIV infection yet low rates of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) utilization. Barriers to PrEP uptake exist at the system, provider, and individual/client level. To learn how existing training and advertising can be adapted to address race- and sex-based gaps within PrEP service delivery, we conducted focus groups with providers and Black women. Participants were recruited at three health care organizations in the Midwest and South, screened for eligibility, and consented verbally. Focus groups occurred from August 2022 to February 2023. Women were asked about their knowledge and thoughts on PrEP. Providers were asked about factors influencing their decision-making about PrEP. A codebook was developed based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Transcripts were coded using the Stanford Lightning Report Method. We completed four focus groups with 10 providers and 9 focus groups with 25 women. Three major themes emerged: (1) low comfort level and limited cultural sensitivity/competency among providers discussing HIV risk and PrEP with Black women, (2) women's concerns about PrEP's side effects and safety during pregnancy, and (3) lack of Black women representation in PrEP advertisement/educational materials. In addition, women in the South reported general medical mistrust and specific misconceptions about PrEP. PrEP trainings for providers need detailed information about the safety of PrEP for women and should include role-playing to enhance cultural competency. Likewise, PrEP advertisements/materials should incorporate information regarding side effects and images/experiences of Black women to increase PrEP awareness and uptake among this population. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT05626452.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alicia Dawdani
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ososese E. Enaholo
- The Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Geoffroy Liegeon
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nikki Kasal
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Maria Pyra
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lisa R. Hirschhorn
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Sadia Haider
- Division of Family Planning, Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Amy K. Johnson
- The Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Arnold T, Whiteley L, Elwy RA, Ward LM, Konkle-Parker DJ, Brock JB, Giorlando KK, Barnett AP, Sims-Gomillia C, Craker LK, Lockwood KR, Leigland A, Brown LK. Mapping Implementation Science with Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (MIS-ERIC): Strategies to Improve PrEP Use among Black Cisgender Women Living in Mississippi. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:2744-2761. [PMID: 36396922 PMCID: PMC9672575 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01452-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black women are disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic. Strategies to increase Black women's use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are needed. METHODS Interviews were conducted in Mississippi (MS) with Black, cisgender women at risk for HIV, and community healthcare clinic (CHC) staff who work directly with this population. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify barriers and select appropriate implementation strategies to increase PrEP care. RESULTS Twenty Black women and twelve CHC staff were interviewed. PrEP use barriers resulted from low HIV risk awareness, lack of PrEP knowledge, and structural and stigma-related barriers. Methods for PrEP education and motivation included normalizing PrEP in public communications, providing education at places where women congregate, and tailoring PrEP content with Black women as educators. The Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) project provides a way for implementation scientists to select strategies that are consistent within research and practice across studies. Strategies from the ERIC project were selected to address implementation barriers. CONCLUSIONS Tailoring PrEP implementation protocols to increase Black women's access, engagement, and adherence to PrEP is needed. This is one of the first implementation studies to incorporate these four implementation concepts into a single study: (1) implementation outcomes, (2) i-PARIHS, (3) ERIC's strategy list, and (4) operationalizing the strategies using the Proctor et al., guidelines. Results provide an in-depth comprehensive list of implementation strategies to increase PrEP uptake for Black women in MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha Arnold
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA.
| | - Laura Whiteley
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rani A Elwy
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Lori M Ward
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Deborah J Konkle-Parker
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - James B Brock
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | | | - Andrew P Barnett
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
| | - Courtney Sims-Gomillia
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Lacey K Craker
- Division of Prevention Science and Community Health, University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Khadijra R Lockwood
- Departments of Nursing, Medicine, and Population Health Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, USA
| | - Avery Leigland
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
| | - Larry K Brown
- Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA
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Aidoo-Frimpong G, Agbemenu K, Adzrago D, Akyirem S, Boateng S, Nelson LE. The Promise of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis - Examining Awareness, Knowledge, and Willingness to use Different Modalities Among US-Based African Immigrants. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:1331-1338. [PMID: 37378713 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01515-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to describe and understand the relationship between sociodemographic factors and PrEP awareness, and willingness to use a PrEP modality (oral or injectable).Despite the availability of effective prevention tools such as HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), African immigrants in the United States are disproportionately affected by HIV. Although PrEP can significantly reduce HIV infection in this population, research evidence on PrEP outcomes, such as awareness, knowledge, and willingness to use, is extremely limited. Between April and May 2022, 92 participants completed an online survey assessing their awareness, knowledge, and willingness to use oral or injectable PrEP. The association between sociodemographic characteristics and PrEP-related measures was examined using descriptive and Pearson's chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests. Participants (N = 92) were born between 1990 and 1999 (46.7%), female (70.76%) and highly educated (59.6%). About 52.2% were unaware of PrEP, and 65.6% were willing to use a PrEP modality. Findings indicate that individuals who reported being aware of PrEP demonstrated a high level of knowledge regarding the medication. Having a healthcare provider was associated with PrEP awareness and willingness to use, while educational status was associated with PrEP awareness. 51.1% of participants were willing to use an oral pill for prevention and 47.8% were willing to use injectable PrEP. Our findings highlight the need for PrEP-related research and interventions for African immigrants to increase awareness and provide options for HIV prevention, as African immigrants are currently not well-represented in PrEP delivery systems in the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Aidoo-Frimpong
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Kafuli Agbemenu
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - David Adzrago
- CDC Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Samuel Akyirem
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sarpong Boateng
- Bridgeport Hospital/ Yale New Haven Health, Department of Medicine, Bridgeport, CT, USA
| | - LaRon E Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Owens C, Stukenberg J, Grant MJ, Hoffman M. Primary Care Providers' Information Needs for Prescribing Adolescents HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2023; 35:484-494. [PMID: 38096453 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2023.35.6.484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Although knowledge is a salient determinant in primary care providers (PCPs) prescribing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to adolescents, we know little about what information PCPs want about PrEP. We conducted an online mixed-method study to explore the PrEP information needs of a national sample of 351 PCPs. We analyzed data with deductive content analysis and compared themes between respondents who were aware and not aware of PrEP, knowledgeable and not knowledgeable of the prescribing guidelines, and prescribed and never prescribed PrEP to an adolescent. PCPs who were unknowledgeable about PrEP and never prescribed PrEP to an adolescent mentioned manufacturing information, indications and dosing, and contraindications and adverse reactions more so than PCPs who were aware of and prescribed PrEP. A better understanding of the information needs of PCPs could inform provider education interventions. Future research must examine the facilitators and barriers to integrating PrEP information into medical education and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Owens
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
- Center for Health Equity and Evaluation Research, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University
| | - Jacob Stukenberg
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Morgan J Grant
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
- Center for Health Equity and Evaluation Research, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University
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Ichite A, Jean-Gilles M, Rosenberg R, Abbamonte J, Dévieux JG. Assessing the Preliminary Efficacy of a Nonrandomized, Clinic-Based HIV Risk Reduction Pilot Intervention for PrEP-Initiated, Alcohol- and Other Drug-Using Women of Color in Miami, FL. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023; 10:3077-3094. [PMID: 36648620 PMCID: PMC10645637 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01482-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we assessed the preliminary efficacy and acceptability of a quasi-experimental, clinic-based sexual risk reduction pilot intervention for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)-initiated, alcohol- and other drug-using women of color and explored their self-reported barriers to, and facilitators of, PrEP use. Using a mixed methods design, analyses incorporated pre- and post-intervention study assessment data from 38 women and semi-structured process evaluations using a subsample of 25. The intervention administered over an 8-week period consisted of 4 one-on-one in person educational sessions, a process evaluation, and study assessments conducted at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Post intervention, statistically significant changes in sexual risk scores were not observed; however, we found significant decreases in alcohol use (Z = - 3.02, p = .003, η2 = .41). Process evaluation data revealed interpersonal relationships as a key motivator for PrEP initiation as well as a prominent barrier to PrEP use; these relationships rarely facilitated adherence. Overall, women found the intervention to be acceptable and reported a wide range of benefits of participation-most notably its therapeutic benefits. Findings from this study provide preliminary evidence of the potential for the Talking PrEP with Women of Color intervention to improve risky behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes related to sexual risk taking. Furthermore, findings suggest that interventions to increase PrEP uptake and adherence in at-risk women may benefit from supporting them in accurately estimating their risk for HIV and increasing their sense of social support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Ichite
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public, Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| | - Michèle Jean-Gilles
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public, Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Rhonda Rosenberg
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public, Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - John Abbamonte
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, Counseling Psychology Area, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Jessy G Dévieux
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public, Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
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Rastegar J, Hu A, Chung L, Stevens L, Dixon SW, Schwab P, Ellis JJ. HIV preexposure prophylaxis treatment patterns in a national health plan population. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2023; 29:1267-1274. [PMID: 38058138 PMCID: PMC10776253 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2023.29.12.1267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication nonadherence diminishes the benefits of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for the 1.2 million Americans at risk for HIV exposure. OBJECTIVE To describe HIV PrEP treatment patterns among Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plan and commercially insured beneficiaries. METHODS This retrospective cohort study identified patients aged 16 to 89 years with at least 1 dispensing of emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate from July 2012, through December 2020, or emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide from October 2019 through December 2020, and who were continuously enrolled at least 12 months prior to and following the earliest PrEP claim. Outcomes were HIV PrEP adherence measured by proportion of days covered (PDC) using 2 binary thresholds of 0.60 (4 doses/week) and 0.80 (5-6 doses/week) and duration of index treatment episode, total time on treatment, and total number of prescription fills. RESULTS The study cohort of 707 (292 MAPD plan, 415 commercial) was predominantly made up of male patients (90.0%) and resided in the South (78.9%) with a mean age of 46.2 years (MAPD plan: 54.5, commercial: 40.4). Both populations engaged in high-risk sexual behavior (All: 18.7%, MAPD plan: 16.8%, commercial: 20.0%) and experienced sexually transmitted infections (All: 3.3%, MAPD plan: 2.1%, commercial: 4.1%). The mean index treatment episode length was 297.0 days (MAPD plan: 283.6, commercial: 306.5). Total time on treatment was 477.3 days (MAPD plan: 450.7, commercial 496.0). At 3 months, 84.9% (MAPD plan: 83.6%, commercial: 85.8%) and at 12 months, 58.7% (MAPD plan: 57.2, commercial: 59.8) of patients achieved a PDC of at least 0.80. At 3 months, 100.0% (MAPD plan: 100.0%, commercial: 100.0%), and at 12 months, 74.3% (MAPD plan: 70.2%, commercial: 76.9%) of patients achieved a PDC of at least 0.60. The cohort had a mean of 16.4 fills of 30 days (MAPD plan: 16.4, commercial: 16.3) supply. CONCLUSIONS There is an opportunity for clinical programs to focus on improving longer-term PrEP adherence among individuals at risk for HIV exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy Hu
- Humana Pharmacy Solutions, Humana Inc., Louisville, KY
| | - Linda Chung
- Humana Pharmacy Solutions, Humana Inc., Louisville, KY
| | | | | | - Phil Schwab
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC
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Butts SA, Young B, Blackmon J, Doblecki-Lewis S. Addressing disparities in Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) access: implementing a community-centered mobile PrEP program in South Florida. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1311. [PMID: 38012701 PMCID: PMC10683210 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10277-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is highly effective, but disparities in PrEP access remain considerable, particularly among Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM). To address this, the University of Miami Mobile PrEP Program was created, offering mobile HIV prevention/PrEP services in areas throughout South Florida where HIV incidence is high and PrEP access is geographically limited. Using a community-centered participatory approach, the program strategized and executed expansion into the Liberty City neighborhood of Miami. This study qualitatively assessed factors affecting Mobile PrEP implementation as perceived by community stakeholders, clients, and program staff. METHODS Forty-one in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 Mobile PrEP clients, 10 key informants from local health organizations, and 10 program staff. Interview questions queried perceived organizational and positional barriers and facilitators to mobile clinic implementation. Service satisfaction, setting preferences, social factors, and likelihood of recommending Mobile PrEP were also assessed. A thematic content analysis was performed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) taxonomy as the guiding constructs for the analysis. RESULTS Participant statements indicated that providing no-cost services, convenient location, program-covered rideshares, individualized patient navigation, and a community-centric approach to patient care, which included staff members with shared lived experiences to increase positive interactions and renewed trust among poorly served communities, were facilitators of PrEP access and intervention uptake. The importance of program familiarization with the community before implementation, particularly for Black and African American communities, who may experience unique barriers to accessing sexual healthcare was strongly emphasized by participants. CONCLUSIONS The Mobile PrEP intervention was found to be an acceptable and accessible mode of HIV/STI preventive care. The importance of pre-implementation community engagement and preparation is emphasized. Future research is needed to refine understanding of the intervention's components and evaluate implementation determinants in other highly impacted neighborhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefani A Butts
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - BreAnne Young
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Jakisha Blackmon
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA
| | - Susanne Doblecki-Lewis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
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Kamitani E, Mizuno Y, Koenig LJ. Strategies to Eliminate Inequity in PrEP Services in the US South and Rural Communities. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2023; 35:00001782-990000000-00080. [PMID: 37963267 PMCID: PMC11090982 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Inequity in preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care in the US South and rural communities is likely attributed to Social Determinants of Health and structural issues beyond individuals' control. We describe three approaches to modify PrEP care practice models to make access easier-"normalizing," "digitalizing," and "simplifying." "Normalizing" approaches are defined as practice models where medical providers who have access to PrEP candidates prescribe PrEP routinely (e.g., primary care providers, community pharmacists); these approaches are found to be highly applicable in real-world settings. Telehealth and other dHealth tools are examples of "digitalizing" PrEP, and their use has been increasing rapidly since the COVID-19 pandemic. "Simplifying" PrEP care (e.g., with HIV self-testing, on-demand PrEP) is highlighted in the most recent World Health Organization PrEP guideline. Identifying, implementing, and scaling up these new strategies can allow PrEP candidates to access it, potentially addressing inequities and promoting HIV risk reduction in the US South and rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiko Kamitani
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. 30329-4027
| | - Yuko Mizuno
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. 30329-4027
| | - Linda J. Koenig
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. 30329-4027
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Groot Bruinderink ML, Boyd A, Coyer L, Boers S, Blitz L, Brand JM, Götz HM, Stip M, Woudstra J, Yap K, Vermey K, Matser A, Feddes AR, Jongen VW, Prins M, Hoornenborg E, van Harreveld F, Schim van der Loeff MF, Davidovich U. Online-Mediated HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Care and Reduced Monitoring Frequency for Men Who Have Sex With Men: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial (EZI-PrEP Study). JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e51023. [PMID: 37938875 PMCID: PMC10666015 DOI: 10.2196/51023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Daily and event-driven HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with oral tenofovir-emtricitabine is highly effective to prevent HIV in men who have sex with men (MSM). PrEP care generally consists of in-clinic monitoring every 3 months that includes PrEP dispensing, counseling, and screening for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, the optimal frequency for monitoring remains undetermined. Attending a clinic every 3 months for monitoring may be a barrier for PrEP. Online-mediated PrEP care and reduced frequency of monitoring may lower this barrier. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study is to establish the noninferiority of online PrEP care (vs in-clinic care) and monitoring every 6 months (vs every 3 months). The secondary objectives are to (1) examine differences between PrEP care modalities regarding incidences of STIs, HIV infection, and hepatitis C virus infection; retention in PrEP care; intracellular tenofovir-diphosphate concentration; and satisfaction, usability, and acceptability of PrEP care modalities; and (2) evaluate associations of these study outcomes with sociodemographic, behavioral, and psychological characteristics. METHODS This study is a 2×2 factorial, 4-arm, open-label, multi-center, randomized, controlled, noninferiority trial. The 4 arms are (1) in-clinic monitoring every 3 months, (2) in-clinic monitoring every 6 months, (3) online monitoring every 3 months, and (4) online monitoring every 6 months. The primary outcome is a condomless anal sex act with a casual partner not covered or insufficiently covered by PrEP (ie, "unprotected act") as a proxy for HIV infection risk. Eligible individuals are MSM, and transgender and gender diverse people aged ≥18 years who are eligible for PrEP care at 1 of 4 participating sexual health centers in the Netherlands. The required sample size is 442 participants, and the planned observation time is 24 months. All study participants will receive access to a smartphone app, which contains a diary. Participants are requested to complete the diary on a daily basis during the first 18 months of participation. Participants will complete questionnaires at baseline and 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Dried blood spots will be collected at 6 and 12 months for assessment of intracellular tenofovir-diphosphate concentration. Incidence rates of unprotected acts will be compared between the online and in-clinic arms, and between the 6-month and 3-month arms. Noninferiority will be concluded if the upper limit of the 2-sided 97.5% CI of the incidence rate ratio is <1.8. RESULTS The results of the main analysis are expected in 2024. CONCLUSIONS This trial will demonstrate whether online PrEP care and monitoring every 6 months is noninferior to standard PrEP care in terms of PrEP adherence. If noninferiority is established, these modalities may lower barriers for initiating and continuing PrEP use and potentially reduce the systemic burden for PrEP providers. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05093036; https://tinyurl.com/28b8ndvj. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/51023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marije L Groot Bruinderink
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- HIV Monitoring Foundation, Amsterdan, Netherlands
| | - Liza Coyer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sophie Boers
- Department of Sexual Health, Public Health Service of Gelderland-Zuid, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Laura Blitz
- Department of Sexual Health, Public Health Service of Haaglanden, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Jean-Marie Brand
- Department of Sexual Health, Public Health Service of Haaglanden, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Hannelore M Götz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Stip
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Rotterdam-Rijnmond, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joey Woudstra
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kenneth Yap
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Allard R Feddes
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vita W Jongen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- HIV Monitoring Foundation, Amsterdan, Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Elske Hoornenborg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Frenk van Harreveld
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Maarten F Schim van der Loeff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Boedeker D, Zerpa E, Drayer SM. Improving Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Counseling at a Military Women's Health Care Clinic to Champion CDC and Defense Health Agency Recommendations. Mil Med 2023; 188:134-140. [PMID: 37948228 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The CDC updated their guidelines in 2021 to recommend all doctors speak about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against human immunodeficiency virus infection with all sexually active patients. In addition, there is a demonstrated need for physicians to counsel patients on PrEP to achieve military readiness. Results from the 2018 Health Related Behaviors Survey indicate 21.8% of U.S. service members were at high risk for human immunodeficiency virus. This improvement project aimed to assess deficiencies in providers' knowledge before and after an educational intervention and describe policies clinics can adopt to adhere to CDC recommendations. MATERIALS AND METHODS A pre-intervention survey was distributed to providers at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics clinic. Based on results, an educational lecture and standardized intake form were developed. Following the intervention, a post-survey was distributed to providers. A chart review was performed to determine whether PrEP counseling increased following the intervention. RESULTS Forty-seven gynecologic providers were sent a pre- and post-intervention survey. Thirty-seven individuals completed the pre-intervention survey (response rate 78.72%), whereas 18 people completed the post-intervention survey (response rate 38.30%). Descriptive analysis suggested comfort counseling on PrEP, comfort with Defense Health Agency guidance on PrEP, and knowledge of PrEP all increased. In terms of the chart review, 81 charts were reviewed pre- and post-intervention. Although we failed to meet our target counseling rate of 70%, the number of patients who were counseled on or prescribed PrEP following our intervention was statistically significant (P = .013). CONCLUSIONS This improvement project increased provider knowledge and comfort with PrEP, but only marginally affected behavior changes among providers. This failure may be related to the specific clinic in which the study was implemented. Further research is needed to facilitate routine counseling of PrEP among military women's health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Boedeker
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Ethan Zerpa
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Rowan University, Stratford, NJ 08084, USA
| | - Sara M Drayer
- Gynecologic Cancer Center of Excellence, Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Shen Y, Franks J, Reidy W, Olsen H, Wang C, Mushimbele N, Mazala RT, Tchissambou T, Malele F, Kilundu A, Bingham T, Djomand G, Mukinda E, Ewetola R, Abrams EJ, Teasdale CA. Pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake concerns in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Key population and healthcare workers perspectives. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280977. [PMID: 37917646 PMCID: PMC10621847 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Key populations (KP) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including female sex workers (SW), are disproportionally affected by HIV. Quantitative feedback surveys were conducted at seven health facilities in DRC with 70 KP clients enrolled in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services to measure benefits and concerns. The surveys also assessed satisfaction with PrEP services and experiences of stigma at the health facilities. Thirty healthcare workers (HCW) were surveyed to measure attitudes, beliefs, and acceptability of providing services to KP. KP client survey participants were primarily female SW. KP clients reported that the primary concern about taking PrEP was fear of side effects (67%) although few KP reported having experienced side effect (14%). HCW concurred with clients that experienced and anticipated side effects were a primary PrEP uptake concern, along with costs of clinic visits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhan Shen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, United States of America
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, CUNY SPH, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Julie Franks
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - William Reidy
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Halli Olsen
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Chunhui Wang
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Trista Bingham
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Gaston Djomand
- Division of Global HIV & TB, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Elie Mukinda
- Democratic Republic of the Congo Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - Raimi Ewetola
- Democratic Republic of the Congo Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Chloe A. Teasdale
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY, United States of America
- Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, CUNY SPH, New York, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States of America
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Zarwell M, Witt B, Marin-Cespedes S, Gorman B, Kumtap MU, Hoff R, Rysbayeva A, Jha P, Boehm EL, Harihar S, Issel LM, Robinson P. Uptake and Discontinuation of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Uninsured Transgender and Cisgender Women: A Public-Private Partnership Model in North Carolina. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:525-534. [PMID: 37956243 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) remains underutilized among cis and trans women. The PrEP Initiative Program (PIP) is a novel public-private partnership implemented at 12 local clinics in North Carolina. PIP provides HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and clinical and laboratory monitoring for PrEP to uninsured/underinsured clients. We sought to understand service-related differences among both cis and trans women enrolled in PIP, including STIs diagnoses, clinic type, sources of referral, services needed, and reasons for PrEP discontinuation. The Kaplan-Meier curves display retention on PrEP over the duration of the program. Since 2018, 142 women (cis n = 113; trans n = 29) enrolled, and 136 started PrEP. The majority were ages 25-34 years (31.7%) or 18-24 years (29.6%), Black (57.8%) or Latinx (24.7%). Approximately 20.6% of recipients reported at least one STI while enrolled. Overall, trans women requested fewer services than cis women. After accounting for the amount of time each patient was taking PrEP, there were higher rates of trans women diagnosed with syphilis than cis women. Rates of persons with other STIs were not notably different between trans and cis women. Clinic access varied by gender: 69% of trans women were enrolled at only one site. Trans women were retained significantly longer: The Kaplan-Meier adjusted median time to discontinuation was 560 and 238 days for trans and cis women, respectively. PIP successfully reached historically marginalized and uninsured cis and trans women who may benefit from PrEP. Further investigations into factors contributing to recruitment and retention of women in HIV prevention programs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Zarwell
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Academy for Population Health Innovation, UNC Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brian Witt
- Academy for Population Health Innovation, UNC Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- HIV/STI Division, Mecklenburg County Public Health Department, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sebastian Marin-Cespedes
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Academy for Population Health Innovation, UNC Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brianna Gorman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Makshwar U Kumtap
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rhoen Hoff
- Department of Psychology, UNC Charlotte, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ainella Rysbayeva
- Department of Biology, UNC Charlotte, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Prashant Jha
- Department of Biology, UNC Charlotte, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Elsa L Boehm
- BASIS DC High School, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Sweta Harihar
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Academy for Population Health Innovation, UNC Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - L Michele Issel
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Patrick Robinson
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte, College of Health and Human Services, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
- Academy for Population Health Innovation, UNC Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
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Fu J, Dai Z, Wang H, Si M, Chen X, Wu Y, Xiao W, Huang Y, Yu F, Mi G, Su X. Willingness to use long-acting injectable PrEP among HIV-negative/unknown men who have sex with men in mainland China: A cross-sectional online survey. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293297. [PMID: 37856527 PMCID: PMC10586652 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of HIV acquisition. Long-acting injectable-pre-exposure prophylaxis (LAI-PrEP), requiring less frequent dosing, is being studied as an alternative method to daily oral HIV PrEP. With the addition of this potential new prevention method, it expands the scope for a wider user choice and is expected to increase the acceptability and uptake of HIV prevention measures. The aim of our study was to explore the willingness to use LAI-PrEP and associated influential factors. METHODS Participants were recruited from December 2020 to March 2021 through banner advertisements on web- and mobile app-based platforms on Blued, a large gay Chinese social media platform. MSM in our cross-sectional study was HIV-negative and currently lived in mainland China. Participants were asked about their willingness to use LAI-PrEP and reasons why they might be or not be willing to use LAI-PrEP. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the factors associated with the willingness to use LAI-PrEP. RESULTS In total, 969 participants met the inclusion criteria and finished the survey. Nearly twenty percent (19.5%) of participants had never tested for HIV; 66.8% of MSM had multiple male partners; and 51.6% of MSM engaged in condomless sex with their partner. About three-fifths (66.3%) of MSM were aware of PrEP, and only 3.9% of MSM had used PrEP before. The willingness to use LAI-PrEP among MSM was 74.0% (95% CI: 71.4%-76.6%). MSM with higher education levels were less likely to show a willingness to use LAI-PrEP (AOR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.38-0.84). Participants who had a history of HIV test (AOR = 1.68, 95%CI: 1.11-2.55), were willing to use daily oral PrEP (AOR = 10.64, 95%CI:7.43-15.21), had multiple male sexual partners (AOR = 1.33, 95%CI:0.93-1.90), who used rush popper(AOR = 1.49, 95%CI:1.05-2.13), and who were aware of PEP (AOR = 1.66, 95%CI: 1.02-2.70) were more likely to show willingness to use LAI-PrEP. CONCLUSIONS In our study, MSM had quite high awareness but low uptake of PrEP. As LAI-PrEP is expected to be approved for use in China in the future, our study of MSM highlights the need for key population-focused education programs about PrEP and healthy sexual behavior. This study also provides some evidence for LAI-PrEP use among the Chinese MSM population in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yijin Wu
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weijun Xiao
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yiman Huang
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public Welfare, Beijing, China
| | | | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Ruiz-Burga E. Perceived risk and condomless sex practice with commercial and non-commercial sexual partners of male migrant sex workers in London, UK. F1000Res 2023; 10:1033. [PMID: 37928318 PMCID: PMC10622860 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.73248.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Since the emergence of HIV and the AIDS pandemic, the majority of risk-reduction interventions have been centred on the use of condoms in sex workers. Methods: This qualitative study recruited 25 male migrant sex workers in London to understand their risk perception and condomless sex experiences within the context of sex work and private life. The data was collected using face-to-face interviews, analysed using thematic analysis, and the findings interpreted through the theory of planned behaviour. Results: The themes explain that condomless sex with clients occurred when participants consciously accepted to perform this service deploying a risk assessment of clients, faulty strategies, and sexual practices to reduce their risk; or when they lost control because of recreational drugs, feeling attraction to clients, were in precarious circumstances, or were victims of violence. Conversely, condomless sex with non-commercial partners occurred according to the type of relationship, with formal partners it was rationalised through emotional aspects attached to this kind of relationship, while with casual partners it was connected to sexual arousal and the use of alcohol and drugs. Conclusions: Reinforce educational interventions to deliver STI-HIV information, enhance the use of condoms, and to address specific contextual factors that facilitate condomless practice with commercial and non-commercial sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Ruiz-Burga
- University College London - Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
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Zhai Y, Isadore KM, Parker L, Sandberg J. Responding to the HIV Health Literacy Needs of Clients in Substance Use Treatment: The Role of Universal PrEP Education in HIV Health and Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6893. [PMID: 37835163 PMCID: PMC10572580 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Health literacy, particularly HIV health literacy, is a key social determinant of health and can be significantly improved through targeted health education. This paper explores the often-overlooked potential of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) education as a powerful tool to enhance HIV health literacy among people with substance use disorders (PWSUD), a population notably susceptible to HIV. Given the syndemic interplay of substance use disorders (SUDs) and HIV, health professionals, especially substance use counselors, are uniquely positioned to bolster HIV health literacy and positively influence health outcomes. This article offers a brief introduction to PrEP, delineates potential barriers and facilitators to its use and education, and proposes strategies for effective PrEP education, implementation, and adherence. By equipping substance use counselors with essential knowledge and skills, we aim to encourage and promote the integration of PrEP education into substance use treatment. The overarching objective is to empower counselors to proactively engage in HIV prevention efforts, thereby fulfilling pressing health literacy needs and contributing to improved health outcomes among PWSUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusen Zhai
- Department of Human Studies, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Kyesha M. Isadore
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | - Lauren Parker
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, Special Education, College of Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; (L.P.); (J.S.)
| | - Jeremy Sandberg
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, Special Education, College of Education, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA; (L.P.); (J.S.)
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Borsa A, Siegel K. Navigating the Viral Divide: Sexual and Gender Minority Community Perspectives on Treatment as Prevention. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2023; 35:406-419. [PMID: 37843907 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2023.35.5.406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Since it was established that HIV-positive individuals who maintain an undetectable viral load are unable to sexually transmit HIV (U=U), treatment as prevention (TasP) has become an important biomedical HIV prevention option. Many have remained optimistic that TasP, combined with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), will help close the "viral divide" between those living with and without HIV. This qualitative interview study of 62 sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals of mixed serostatuses explored community perspectives regarding TasP, including the meaning of undetectability and how U=U impacts understandings of serodifference. Five key themes emerged from interviews: (1) undetectable does not equal HIV-negative, (2) PrEP is more promoted than TasP, (3) TasP increases openness to serodifferent sex, (4) rejection of TasP absolutism, and (5) the importance of layering prevention strategies. These findings suggest that while TasP is helping to bridge the viral divide, serostatus distinctions remain prevalent and important to many SGM individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Borsa
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Karolynn Siegel
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York
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Beckham SW, Sanchez T, Fowler R, Zlotorzynska M, Rai M, Sullivan P, Vannappagari V, Sarkar S, Glick JL, Rinehart AR, Rawlings K, Bridges JF. Variation in Preferences for Long-Acting Injectable Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among US Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Latent Class Analysis. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:495-503. [PMID: 37862078 PMCID: PMC10771870 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cabotegravir long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (LA PrEP) is efficacious, with a good safety profile, and was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in December 2021. Understanding variations in potential user preferences for LA PrEP may inform implementation and subsequently improve uptake and community-level effectiveness. HIV-negative, sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) aged ≥15 years were recruited online for the 2019 American Men's Internet Survey, before LA PrEP approval. Respondents completed a discrete-choice experiment (DCE) with hypothetical LA PrEP attributes (out-of-pocket cost, perceived side effects, injection frequency, perceived stigma, service location). Latent class analysis segmented respondents into groups based on their preferences for the attributes presented, and relative importance of preference weights and willingness-to-pay were calculated. While the majority had never used daily oral PrEP, 73% of the 2489 respondents were very or somewhat likely to use LA PrEP. Three latent classes were identified from 2241 respondents in the DCE. The "side effects-averse" class was the largest group (64% of respondents) and placed 61% relative importance on side effects. The "ambivalent" class (20% of respondents) placed higher importance on stigma (17% of relative importance) than other classes. The "cost-conscious" class (16% of respondents) placed higher relative importance (62%) on cost compared with other attributes and classes. Perceived side effects were an important hypothetical barrier for LA PrEP uptake among a large proportion of potential MSM users. Minimizing out-of-pocket costs is likely to increase uptake and may be important to equitable access. Tailored communication strategies are recommended for the different groups of potential LA PrEP users.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Wilson Beckham
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Rebecca Fowler
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Mona Rai
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vani Vannappagari
- ViiV Healthcare & University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Supriya Sarkar
- ViiV Healthcare, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Glick
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Keith Rawlings
- ViiV Healthcare, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Tao J, Sosnowy C, Arnold T, Kapadia J, Parent H, Rogers BG, Almonte A, Chan PA. Perspectives of a peer-driven approach to improve pre-exposure prophylaxis and HIV prevention among Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino men who have sex with men. Sex Health 2023; 20:453-460. [PMID: 37532286 PMCID: PMC10902904 DOI: 10.1071/sh23072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black/African American (B/AA) and Hispanic/Latino (H/L) men who have sex with men (MSM) are significantly less likely than white MSM to initiate pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). A peer-driven intervention (PDI) may be an effective approach to addressing this disparity. In this study, we explored community member perspectives of a PDI to promote PrEP uptake among B/AA and H/L MSM. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with B/AA and H/L HIV-negative MSM between August 2018 and October 2019 in Rhode Island, USA. Participants reported their perspectives and recommendations for a PDI. Data from participant responses were thematically analysed. RESULTS Of 15 MSM, the median age was 25years (interquartile range: 22, 33). The majority identified as B/AA (53.3%), H/L (66.7%), and having a college education or above (53.3%). Most participants viewed a PDI positively and were willing to learn and promote PrEP among their peers. Participants identified and supported several potential intervention components, such as education about the benefit of PrEP, emphasising prevention-effective dosing, and clarifying no prevention effect towards other sexually transmitted infections. They preferred in-person meetings to electronic communication. Preferred characteristics of peer educators included compassion, good communication skills, and enthusiasm about PrEP. CONCLUSIONS This in-depth qualitative interview suggested that a PDI approach is promising in promoting PrEP uptake, as it could deliver culturally appropriate education and encourage PrEP uptake via peer influence among B/AA and H/L MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Tao
- Infectious Diseases, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Collette Sosnowy
- Infectious Diseases, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Trisha Arnold
- Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 345 Blackstone Blvd. Providence, RI 02906
| | - Jhanavi Kapadia
- Infectious Diseases, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
| | - Hannah Parent
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Brooke G. Rogers
- Infectious Diseases, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Alexi Almonte
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Philip A. Chan
- Infectious Diseases, Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School, 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 11 4th Street, Providence, RI 02906, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 8 floor, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, 02912
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