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Bernays S, Lariat J, Cowan F, Senzanje B, Willis N, Nenguke ZM. "They test my blood to know how much blood is in my body": the untapped potential of promoting viral load literacy to support adherence and viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26153. [PMID: 37880186 PMCID: PMC10600064 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Achieving sustained HIV viral suppression is a key strategy to optimize the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV. Sub-optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) in Southern Africa, due to a range of social and contextual factors, including poor mental health, has presented a substantial challenge to meeting targets aimed towards improving treatment outcomes and reducing transmission. With the increasing availability of viral load (VL) testing in Southern Africa, there is an opportunity to better understand the relationship between VL literacy, wellbeing and adherence among adolescents. METHODS We conducted qualitative interviews with 45 AYPLHIV aged 10-24 years in three districts (urban, peri-urban and rural) in Zimbabwe between March and August 2021. The sample was purposively selected to represent a range of experiences related to HIV status disclosure, gender, marital status and treatment experience. Separate workshops were conducted with 18 healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 caregivers to better understand existing support mechanisms to AYPLHIV accessing ART. We used thematic analysis to examine adolescent VL literacy, treatment support networks, experiences of clinic interactions, VL testing procedures and barriers to adherence. RESULTS VL literacy was consistently under-developed among participants. Comprehension of phrases commonly heard during clinic visits, such as TND (target not detected) and "high" and "low" VL, were better understood by older participants. VL testing was predominantly understood as a clinical procedure that enables HCWs to monitor treatment adherence. Absent throughout the interviews were descriptions of how viral suppression improves health and quality of life, likely fosters wellbeing and enhances self-esteem, enables participation in education and social activities, and eliminates the risk of onward transmission. CONCLUSIONS It is imperative that we reconsider how routine VL monitoring is communicated to and understood by AYPLHIV. Reframing ART, including VL test results, in terms of the psychosocial benefits that viral suppression can generate is likely to be crucial to motivating AYPLHIV to maintain optimal treatment engagement and develop self-management approaches as they move into adulthood. Access to accurate information tailored to individual concerns and circumstances can support AYPLHIV to achieve wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bernays
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Global Health and Development London School of Hygiene & Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Joni Lariat
- School of Public HealthUniversity of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Ferris France N, Byrne E, Nyamwanza O, Munatsi V, Willis N, Conroy R, Vumbunu S, Chinembiri M, Maedziso S, Katsande MA, Dongo TA, Crehan E, Mavhu W. Wakakosha "You are Worth it": reported impact of a community-based, peer-led HIV self-stigma intervention to improve self-worth and wellbeing among young people living with HIV in Zimbabwe. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1235150. [PMID: 37575105 PMCID: PMC10422020 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1235150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Self-stigma-negative self-judgements or core beliefs-can result in feelings of shame, worthlessness and self-blame, and impacts social interaction, mental health and health service utilization among people living with HIV (PLHIV). Few interventions target self-stigma among PLHIV and, to our knowledge, none until now for adolescents and young people LHIV (AYPLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa. We present qualitative findings on the perceived impact of a self-stigma intervention (Wakakosha, "You are Worth it"). Methods The Wakakosha intervention adopted inquiry-based stress reduction (IBSR) at its core-a unique way of identifying and questioning deeply rooted self-stigma, combined with mindfulness, meditation and creativity. The intervention consisted of 16 × 3 hour group sessions. Supporting the intervention was a 156-page activity journal. We utilized a qualitative enquiry to explore the perceived impact of the intervention at various time points between November 2021 and November 2022, with 62 participants (n = 32 female). Discussions explored experiences of being involved in the intervention and any reports on changes in relation to self-stigma and shame. Additionally, we reviewed intervention documentation and creative elements. A thematic analysis guided generation of themes across all data sources. Results Both intervention participants and coaches described the transformative effect of the intervention, detailing their experiences before and after. Main themes that emerged were positive changes around: self-confidence, self-agency, sense of purpose/meaning, body positivity, improved communication and personal/family relationships and, forgiveness. The intervention also transferred a set of practical skills on self-inquiry, mindfulness, meditation and creativity that continued to be used in participants' daily lives. Conclusion The Wakakosha intervention, using IBSR supported by music, creativity, writing and mindfulness techniques, showed potential for reducing self-stigma and improving self-worth among AYPLHIV. It also transferred practical skills to intervention participants and peer coaches, building their capacity to support others and deal with life challenges beyond HIV. The next phase is to continue supporting the young people to ensure fidelity as the peer coaches deliver the intervention to others. Study results indicate that culturally and practically, interventions to reduce self-stigma and/or improve self-worth operate at various levels and need to be designed and assessed at each level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Ferris France
- Beyond Stigma, Dublin, Ireland
- University College Cork School of Medicine, Department of Public Health & Epidemiology, Cork, Ireland
| | - Elaine Byrne
- Centre for Positive Health Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Owen Nyamwanza
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | - Ronan Conroy
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Moud Chinembiri
- Community of the Work in Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
- The Work Under the Tree Trust, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | | | - Webster Mavhu
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Exploring the beliefs, experiences and impacts of HIV-related self-stigma amongst adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Harare, Zimbabwe: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268498. [PMID: 35584100 PMCID: PMC9116620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV-related self-stigma is a significant barrier to HIV management. However, very little research has explored this phenomenon, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. This study explored the beliefs, experiences, and impacts of HIV self-stigma amongst adolescents and young adults (AYALHIV) in Harare, Zimbabwe to inform future interventions. It aimed to capture the lived experience of self-stigmatization among AYALHIV and its impact on their social context using Corrigan et al (2009) self-stigma framework of ‘awareness’, ‘agreement’, and ‘application’. Methods Virtual semi-structured key informant interviews were conducted between June and July 2020 with adolescents and young adults (Female = 8; Male = 8) living with HIV (18–24 years) in Harare, Zimbabwe. We conducted the interviews with a purposive sample of AYALHIV enrolled in Africaid’s ‘Zvandiri’ program which provides HIV support services. Interviews were mainly conducted in English and with three in Shona, the main indigenous language. Audio-recorded qualitative data were transcribed, translated into English (where necessary) and deductively coded using Corrigan et al.’s self-stigma framework. The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 coincided with the commencement of data collection activities, which impacted on both the sample size and a shift from in-person to virtual interviewing methods. Results Sixteen respondents (50% male) took part in the interviews. The mean age of respondents was 22 years. All respondents reported HIV-related self-stigma either occasionally or frequently. Three main themes of self-stigmatizing experiences emerged: disclosure, relationships, and isolation. These themes were then analyzed within the self-stigma development framework by Corrigan et al. (2009) known as ‘the three As’: awareness, agreement, and application of self-stigmatizing thoughts. Respondents’ experiences of self-stigma reportedly led to poor well-being and decreased mental and physical health. Gendered experiences and coping mechanisms of self-stigma were reported. Data suggested that context is key in the way that HIV is understood and how it then impacts the way people living with HIV (PLHIV) live with, and experience, HIV. Conclusions HIV-related negative self-perceptions were described by all respondents in this study, associated with self-stigmatizing beliefs that adversely affected respondents’ quality of life. Study findings supported Corrigan et al.’s framework on how to identify self-stigma and was a useful lens through which to understand HIV-related self-stigma among young people in Harare. Study findings highlight the need for interventions targeting PLHIV and AYALHIV to be context relevant if they are to build individual resilience, while working concurrently with socio-political and systemic approaches that challenge attitudes to HIV at the wider societal levels. Finally, the gendered experiences of self-stigma point to the intersecting layers of self-stigma that are likely to be felt by particularly marginalized populations living with HIV and should be further explored.
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Enane LA, Apondi E, Liepmann C, Toromo JJ, Omollo M, Bakari S, Scanlon M, Wools-Kaloustian K, Vreeman RC. 'We are not going anywhere': a qualitative study of Kenyan healthcare worker perspectives on adolescent HIV care engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055948. [PMID: 35354627 PMCID: PMC8968109 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) may be vulnerable to widescale impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and to health system responses which impact HIV care. We assessed healthcare worker (HCW) perspectives on impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent HIV care delivery and engagement in western Kenya. METHODS We performed in-depth qualitative interviews with HCW at 10 clinical sites in the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare in Kenya, from January to March, 2021. Semistructured interviews ascertained pandemic-related impacts on adolescent HIV care delivery and retention. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 22 HCWs from 10 clinics. HCWs observed adolescent financial hardships, unmet basic needs and school dropouts during the pandemic, with some adolescents relocating to rural homes, to partners or to the street. Marked increases in adolescent pregnancies and pregnancy complications were described, as well as barriers to family planning and antenatal care. Transportation challenges and restrictions limited access to care and prompted provision of multi-month refills, refills at local dispensaries or transfer to local facilities. Adolescent-friendly services were compromised, resulting in care challenges and disengagement from care. Clinic capacities to respond to adolescent needs were limited by funding cuts to multidisciplinary staff and resources. HCW and youth peer mentors (YPMs) demonstrated resilience, by adapting services, taking on expanded roles and leveraging available resources to support adolescent retention and access to care. CONCLUSIONS ALHIV are uniquely vulnerable, and adolescent-friendly services are essential to their treatment. The combined effects of the pandemic, health system changes and funding cuts compromised adolescent-friendly care and limited capacity to respond to adolescent needs. There is a need to reinforce adolescent-friendly services within programmes and funding structures. Support for expanded YPM roles may facilitate dedicated, scalable and effective adolescent-friendly services, which are resilient and sustainable in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Claire Liepmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Judith J Toromo
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Michael Scanlon
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kara Wools-Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Indiana University Center for Global Health, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Global Health and Health Systems Design, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
- Arnhold Institute for Global Health, New York City, New York, USA
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Stangl AL, Mwale M, Sebany M, Mackworth-Young CR, Chiiya C, Chonta M, Clay S, Sievwright K, Bond V. Feasibility, Acceptability and Preliminary Efficacy of Tikambisane ('Let's Talk to Each Other'): A Pilot Support Group Intervention for Adolescent Girls Living With HIV in Zambia. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 20:23259582211024772. [PMID: 34212766 PMCID: PMC8255553 DOI: 10.1177/23259582211024772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In Zambia, 84,959 adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15-24 are currently living with HIV. We explored the feasibility and acceptability of a 6-session, curriculum-based support group intervention designed to address key concerns of AGYW living with HIV. Setting: Urban Zambia Methods: Surveys and in-depth interviews were collected pre- and post-intervention from participants enrolled from 2 health facilities. Eight participant observations of sessions were conducted. Descriptive statistics at baseline were reported only for AGYW who participated in the intervention (N = 21), while analyses comparing baseline and endline outcome measures were restricted to participants who had data at both time points (N = 14). Results: Support groups were feasible to conduct and acceptable to participants. Co-facilitation by an adult counselor and peers living with HIV raised confidence about session content. Sessions on antiretroviral therapy (ART), disclosure and stigma, and grief and loss were most in demand. We did not observe significant differences in key outcome measures between baseline and follow-up. However, qualitative data supported the positive impact of the intervention on ART adherence and hope for the future following the intervention among our participants. Conclusion: A short-term, structured support group series holds promise for helping AGYW living with HIV safely navigate a complex time in their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne L Stangl
- Department of Global Health, Youth and Development, International Center for Research on Women, Washington DC, USA.,Hera Solutions, Owings Mills, MD, USA
| | - Mwangala Mwale
- Social Science Unit, Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus, Lusaka, Zambia, Africa
| | - Meroji Sebany
- Department of Global Health, Youth and Development, International Center for Research on Women, Washington DC, USA
| | - Constance Rs Mackworth-Young
- Social Science Unit, Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus, Lusaka, Zambia, Africa.,Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Sue Clay
- 3C Regional Consultants, Lusaka, Zambia, Africa
| | - Kirsty Sievwright
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Virginia Bond
- Social Science Unit, Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus, Lusaka, Zambia, Africa.,Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC, United Kingdom
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6
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Ashaba S, Cooper-Vince C, Maling S, Satinsky EN, Baguma C, Akena D, Nansera D, Bajunirwe F, Tsai AC. Childhood trauma, major depressive disorder, suicidality, and the modifying role of social support among adolescents living with HIV in rural Uganda. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2021; 4:100094. [PMID: 34841384 PMCID: PMC8623847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood trauma is associated with mental health problems among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa, but little is known about potential moderating factors. METHODS We enrolled 224 ALHIV aged 13-17 years and collected information on childhood trauma, major depressive disorder, and suicidality. We used modified multivariable Poisson regression to estimate the association between the mental health outcome variables and childhood trauma, and to assess for effect modification by social support. RESULTS Major depressive disorder had a statistically significant association with emotional abuse (adjusted relative risk [ARR] 2.57; 95% CI 1.31-5.04; P=0.006) and physical abuse (ARR 2.16; 95% CI 1.19-3.89; P=0.01). The estimated association between any abuse and major depressive disorder was statistically significant among those with a low level of social support (ARR 4.30; 95% CI 1.64-11.25; P=0.003) but not among those with a high level of social support (ARR 1.30; 95% CI 0.57-2.98; P=0.52). Suicidality also had a statistically significant association with emotional abuse (ARR 2.03; 95% CI 1.05-3.920; P=0.03) and physical abuse (ARR 3.17; 95% CI 1.60-6.25.; P=0.001), but no differences by social support were noted. LIMITATIONS Corporal punishment is used widely in schools and homes as a form of discipline in Uganda; this cultural practice could have biased reporting about physical abuse. CONCLUSIONS Childhood trauma is associated with poor mental health among ALHIV, but its effects may be moderated by social support. More research is needed to develop social support interventions for ALHIV with adverse childhood experiences for improved mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scholastic Ashaba
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | | | - Samuel Maling
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Emily N. Satinsky
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles Baguma
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Dickens Akena
- Department of Psychiatry, Makerere College of Health Sciences, Makerere, Uganda
| | - Denis Nansera
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Francis Bajunirwe
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Alexander C. Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Mbarara University Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
- Center for Global Health and Mongan Institute, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a neurotropic virus that has a detrimental impact on the developing central nervous system (CNS) of children growing up with perinatal HIV (PHIV) due to a combination of pathophysiological processes related to direct viral cytopathic effects and immune activation. This leads to a spectrum of neurocognitive impairment ranging from severe encephalopathy to subtle domain-specific cognitive impairments, as well as psychological disorders that are compounded by HIV-related stigma and sociodemographic factors that disproportionately affect PHIV children. Early commencement and consistent use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has resulted in a dramatic improvement in neuropsychological outcomes for PHIV children; however, they remain vulnerable to cognitive impairment and psychological disorders, as evidenced by imaging findings, randomised clinical trials and observational studies. An optimal neuroprotective cART regimen remains elusive in children, but systemic viral suppression, regular neurocognitive and psychological screening and ready access to neuropsychological management strategies are key components for optimising neuropsychological outcomes. However, a lack of standardised and validated screening tools, particularly in resource-limited settings, hinders a precise understanding of the nature, prevalence and associations between neuropsychological symptomatology and HIV health. This article reviews the natural history, cellular pathophysiology and structural and functional imaging findings for children growing up with HIV, as well as summarising management strategies related to antiretroviral therapy, screening tools and specific interventions for neurocognitive impairments and psychological disorders.
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Toska E, Laurenzi CA, Roberts KJ, Cluver L, Sherr L. Adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children: A scoping review of evidence and experiences from sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Public Health 2020; 15:1655-1673. [PMID: 32507031 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2020.1775867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
While adolescents have received increasing attention in the global HIV response and international strategies and commitments, adolescent mothers and their children remain largely overlooked in research, funding and, programming for health-related outcomes. We conducted an extensive scoping review of current evidence on the experiences of adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children in this region. We included published literature and conference abstracts, complemented by consultations with key stakeholders, and a review of documents through grey literature searching. First, we summarise the experiences of adolescent mothers and their children related to HIV and key health and development indicators. The syndemic of early motherhood and HIV in sub-Saharan Africa increases the vulnerability of adolescent mothers and their children. We then highlight lessons from a series of promising programmes focused on supporting adolescent mothers through novel approaches. In sub-Saharan Africa, supporting adolescent mothers living in high HIV-risk communities is critical not only to eliminate HIV/AIDS, but also to attain the Sustainable Development Goals. While research on and programming for adolescent mothers and their children is growing, the complex needs for this vulnerable group remain unmet. We conclude with evidence gaps and programming priorities for adolescent mothers affected by HIV and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christina A Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Mackworth-Young CRS, Bond V, Wringe A. Secrets and Silence: Agency of Young Women Managing HIV Disclosure. Med Anthropol 2020; 39:720-734. [PMID: 32469242 DOI: 10.1080/01459740.2020.1764551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Drawing on a 12-month ethnography with young women living with HIV in Zambia, we explore their everyday strategies to avoid unintentional disclosure of their HIV status. Young women practiced secrecy with sexual partners, through hiding their antiretroviral therapy and using veiled language around HIV. Whilst remaining silent about their HIV status enabled them to maintain identities beyond HIV, this secrecy triggered feelings of guilt and anxiety, suggesting that their agency was "bounded" by the context of persistent stigma. These strategies to hide their HIV status question public health narratives urging disclosure, and support disclosure-counseling approaches that champions choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance R S Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK
| | - Virginia Bond
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK.,Social Science Department, Zambart, School of Medicine, University of Zambia , Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Alison Wringe
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London, UK
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10
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Peer Support for Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: Emerging Insights and a Methodological Agenda. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 16:467-474. [PMID: 31776974 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-019-00470-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite clear need and disproportionate risk, adolescents, and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) are underserved within the HIV response. "Peer support" increasingly forms part of adolescent and youth-responsive service packages as a class of implementation strategies that can support adolescents to access, engage, and sustain treatment. This paper examines examples of peer support for AYPLHIV within sub-saharan Africa to explore the determinants of successful implementation, outcomes and scale-up, as well as policy and programmatic implications. RECENT FINDINGS Although adolescent peer support has been observed to be widely implemented, there are few examples of detailed program descriptions describing operational logistics or outcomes around peer support interventions. Nevertheless the few examples available provide preliminary support for the potential utility of peer support to improve AYPLHIV outcomes. Implementation science research is an urgent imperative to examine applicability of peer support for this priority population. In the meantime, programs should move forward with implementation based on promising outcomes, programmatic experience, contextual understanding of challenges and gaps, and best practice examples.
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11
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Enane LA, Eby J, Arscott-Mills T, Argabright S, Caiphus C, Kgwaadira B, Steenhoff AP, Lowenthal ED. TB and TB-HIV care for adolescents and young adults. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2020; 24:240-249. [PMID: 32127110 PMCID: PMC7307717 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.19.0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
SETTING: Nine high-burden public tuberculosis (TB) clinics in Gaborone, Botswana.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the challenges encountered, healthcare worker (HCW) approaches, and supported interventions in TB and TB-HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) care for adolescents and young adults (AYA, aged 10-24 years).DESIGN: Semi-structured interviews with HCW in TB clinics, analyzed using thematic analysis.RESULTS: Sixteen HCWs were interviewed. AYA developmental needs included reliance on family support for care, increasing autonomy, attending school or work, building trust in HCWs, and intensive TB education and adherence support. Stigma strongly influenced care engagement, including clinic attendance and HIV testing. Health system barriers to optimal AYA TB care included limited staffing and resources to follow-up or support. HCWs utilized intensive education and counseling, and transitioned AYA to community-based directly observed therapy whenever feasible. HCWs supported implementation of youth-friendly services, such as AYA-friendly spaces or clinic days, training in AYA care, use of mobile applications, and peer support interventions, in addition to health system strengthening.CONCLUSION: HCWs utilize dedicated approaches for AYA with TB, but have limited time and resources for optimal care. They identified several strategies likely to improve care and better retain AYAs in TB treatment. Further work is needed to study interventions to improve AYA TB care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Enane
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - J Eby
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - T Arscott-Mills
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
| | - S Argabright
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C Caiphus
- Botswana National TB Programme, Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - B Kgwaadira
- Botswana National TB Programme, Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - A P Steenhoff
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
| | - E D Lowenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA, Botswana-UPenn Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana, Center for Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Kalungi A, Womersley JS, Kinyanda E, Joloba ML, Ssembajjwe W, Nsubuga RN, Levin J, Kaleebu P, Kidd M, Seedat S, Hemmings SMJ. Internalizing Mental Disorders and Accelerated Cellular Aging Among Perinatally HIV-Infected Youth in Uganda. Front Genet 2019; 10:705. [PMID: 31428136 PMCID: PMC6688656 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Internalizing mental disorders (IMDs) in HIV+ children and adolescents are associated with impaired quality of life and non-adherence to anti-retroviral treatment. Telomere length is a biomarker of cellular aging, and shorter telomere length has been associated with IMDs. However, the nature of this association has yet to be elucidated. Objective: We determined the longitudinal association between IMDs and relative telomere length (rTL) and the influence of chronic stress among Ugandan perinatally HIV-infected youth (PHIY). Methods: IMDs (depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder) and IMDs were assessed using the locally adapted Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory-5. In 368 PHIY with any IMD and 368 age- and sex-matched PHIY controls without any psychiatric disorder, rTL was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to generate the three chronic stress classes (mild, moderate, and severe). t-tests were used to assess the difference between baseline and 12 month rTL and the mean difference in rTL between cases and controls both at baseline and at 12 months. Linear regression analysis was used to model the effects of chronic stress on the association between IMDs and rTL, controlling for age and sex. Results: We observed longer rTL among cases of IMDs compared with controls (p < 0.001). We also observed a statistically significant reduction in rTL between baseline and 12 months in the combined sample of cases and controls (p < 0.001). The same statistical difference was observed when cases and controls were individually analyzed (p < 0.001). We found no significant difference in rTL between cases and controls at 12 months (p = 0.117). We found no significant influence of chronic stress on the association between IMDs and rTL at both baseline and 12 months. Conclusion: rTL is longer among cases of IMDs compared with age- and sex-matched controls. We observed a significant attrition in rTL over 12 months, which seems to be driven by the presence of any IMDs. There is a need for future longitudinal and experimental studies to understand the mechanisms driving our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Kalungi
- Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.,Mental Health Project, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Eugene Kinyanda
- Mental Health Project, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses L Joloba
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Wilber Ssembajjwe
- Mental Health Project, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Statistics and Data Science Section, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Rebecca N Nsubuga
- Statistics and Data Science Section, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jonathan Levin
- School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sian M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Mackworth-Young CRS, Schneiders ML, Wringe A, Simwinga M, Bond V. Navigating 'ethics in practice': An ethnographic case study with young women living with HIV in Zambia. Glob Public Health 2019; 14:1689-1702. [PMID: 31106688 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1616799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
While 'procedural ethics' provides essential frameworks for governing global health research, reflecting on 'ethics in practice' offers important insights into addressing ethically important moments that arise in everyday research. Particularly for ethnographic research, renowned for it's fluid and spontaneous nature, engaging with 'ethics in practice' has the potential to enhance research practice within global health. We provide a case study for such reflexivity, exploring 'ethics in practice' of ethnographic research with middle-income young women living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. We explore the ethical issues arising from the layered interaction of the population (young women), the disease under investigation (HIV), the method of study (ethnographic), and the setting (Zambia, a lower middle income country). We describe how we navigated five key practical ethical tensions that arose, namely the psycho-emotional benefits of the research, the negotiated researcher-participant relationship, protecting participants' HIV status, confidentiality and data ownership, and researcher obligations after the end of the research. We exemplify reflexive engagement with 'ethics in practice' and suggest that engaging with ethics in this way can make important contributions towards developing more adequate ethical guidelines and research practice in global public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance R S Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK.,Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia , Lusaka , Zambia
| | - Mira L Schneiders
- Ethox Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford , Oxford , UK
| | - Alison Wringe
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Musonda Simwinga
- Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia , Lusaka , Zambia
| | - Virginia Bond
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK.,Zambart, School of Public Health, University of Zambia , Lusaka , Zambia
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14
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Mupambireyi Z, Bernays S. Reflections on the Use of Audio Diaries to Access Young People's Lived Experiences of HIV in Zimbabwe. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:680-692. [PMID: 29938607 DOI: 10.1177/1049732318780684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This methodological article reflects on the contribution audio diaries can make to accessing important, and commonly silenced, dimensions of the lived experience of growing up with HIV and their acceptability to children. Audio diaries were used by 12 young people, aged 11 to 13 years, as part of a longitudinal qualitative study embedded within the Anti-Retroviral Research for Watoto (ARROW) clinical trial. The method provided an alternative means for young people to express detailed reflections on their day-to-day encounters, as well as ordinarily silenced topics, including hidden and suppressed emotions regarding the circumstance surrounding their perinatal infection. Although the audio diary has great potential as method, its efficacy rests on young people's understanding of how to use it. There are ethical challenges around maintaining confidentiality while participants are in possession of the diaries and provision of appropriate support. The technology used in the study was in many ways cumbersome compared with opportunities increasingly available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Mupambireyi
- 1 Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - S Bernays
- 2 London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- 3 University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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15
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Ditai J, Abeso J, Odeke NM, Mobbs N, Dusabe-Richards J, Mudoola M, Carrol ED, Olupot-Olupot P, Storr J, Medina-Lara A, Gladstone M, Faragher EB, Weeks AD. BabyGel pilot: a pilot cluster randomised trial of the provision of alcohol handgel to postpartum mothers to prevent neonatal and young infant infection-related morbidity in the community. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2019; 5:49. [PMID: 30962946 PMCID: PMC6436217 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-019-0432-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) is widely used in both health and social facilities to prevent infection, but it is not known whether supplying it for regular perinatal use can prevent newborn sepsis in African rural homes. Our study piloted a cluster randomised trial of providing ABHR to postpartum mothers to prevent neonatal infection-related morbidity in the communities. METHODS We conducted a pilot parallel cluster randomised controlled trial across ten villages (clusters) in rural Eastern Uganda. Pregnant women of over 34 weeks' gestation were recruited over a period of 3 months. Both clusters received the standard of care of antenatal health education, Maama Kit, and clinic appointments. In addition, women in the intervention villages received ABHR, instructions on ABHR use, a poster on the 'three moments of hand hygiene', and training. We followed up each mother-baby pair for 3 months after birth and measured rates of consent, recruitment, and follow-up (our target rate was more than 80%). Other measures included ABHR use (the acceptable use was more than four times a day) and its mode of distribution (village health workers (VHWs) or pharmacy), acceptability of study protocol and electronic data capture, and the use of WHO Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) tool to screen for newborn infection. RESULTS We selected 36% (10/28) of villages for randomisation to either intervention or control. Over 12 weeks, 176 pregnant women were screened and 58.5% (103/176) were eligible. All, 100% (103/103), eligible women gave consent and were enrolled into the trial (55 intervention and 48 control). After birth, 94.5% (52/55) of mothers in the intervention and 100% (48/48) of mothers in the control villages were followed up within 72 h. Most, 90.9% (50/55), of the mothers in the intervention villages (96.2% of live births) and 95.8% (46/48) of mothers in the control villages (95.9% of live births) were followed up at 3 months. In intervention villages, the average hand rub use was 6.6 times per day. VHWs accounted for all ABHR stock, compared to the pharmacy that could not account for 5 l of ABHR. The screening tool was positive for infection among a third of babies, i.e. 29.2% (14/48) in the intervention villages versus 31.4% (16/51) in the control villages.VHWs completed the first four questions of IMCI screening tool with ease and accuracy. There were no adverse reactions with the ABHR. CONCLUSION It is feasible to conduct a cluster-randomised controlled trial (cRCT) of the provision of ABHR to postpartum mothers to prevent neonatal infection-related morbidity in the community in resource-poor settings. Our results indicate that home recruitment promotes excellent follow-up and retention of participants in community trials. The intervention was safe. This pilot study informed the substantial changes necessary in the larger cRCT, including a change in the primary outcome to a composite outcome considering multiple methods of infection detection. A large BabyGel cluster randomised controlled trial is now required. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN67852437, registered March 02, 2015. TRIAL FUNDING Medical Research Council/WellcomeTrust/DfID (Global Health Trials Scheme).
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Ditai
- Sanyu Africa Research Institute (SAfRI), Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Pallisa-Kumi Road Junction, P.O Box 2190, Mbale, Uganda
- Sanyu Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS UK
- Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, P.O Box 1460, Mbale, Uganda
| | - J. Abeso
- Sanyu Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS UK
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Mbale, Uganda
| | - N. M. Odeke
- Sanyu Africa Research Institute (SAfRI), Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Pallisa-Kumi Road Junction, P.O Box 2190, Mbale, Uganda
| | - N. Mobbs
- Sanyu Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS UK
| | - J. Dusabe-Richards
- Tropical Clinical Trials Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - M. Mudoola
- Sanyu Africa Research Institute (SAfRI), Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, Pallisa-Kumi Road Junction, P.O Box 2190, Mbale, Uganda
| | - E. D. Carrol
- Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, 8 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L69 7BE UK
| | - P. Olupot-Olupot
- Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, P.O Box 1460, Mbale, Uganda
| | | | - A. Medina-Lara
- Health Economics Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - M. Gladstone
- Sanyu Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS UK
| | - E. B. Faragher
- Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences, P.O Box 1460, Mbale, Uganda
| | - A. D. Weeks
- Sanyu Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Liverpool Women’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS UK
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16
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Dulli L, Ridgeway K, Packer C, Plourde KF, Mumuni T, Idaboh T, Olumide A, Ojengbede O, McCarraher DR. An Online Support Group Intervention for Adolescents Living with HIV in Nigeria: A Pre-Post Test Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2018; 4:e12397. [PMID: 30487116 PMCID: PMC6291681 DOI: 10.2196/12397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIVs) enrolled in HIV treatment services experience greater loss to follow-up and suboptimal adherence than other age groups. HIV-related stigma, disclosure-related issues, lack of social support, and limited HIV knowledge impede adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and retention in HIV services. The 90-90-90 goals for ALHIVs will only be met through strategies targeted to meet their specific needs. Objectives We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a social media-based intervention to improve HIV knowledge, social support, ART adherence, and retention among ALHIV aged 15-19 years on ART in Nigeria. Methods We conducted a single-group pre-post test study from June 2017 to January 2018. We adapted an existing support group curriculum and delivered it through trained facilitators in 5 support groups by using Facebook groups. This pilot intervention included five 1-week sessions. We conducted structured interviews with participants before and after the intervention, extracted clinical data, and documented intervention implementation and participation. In-depth interviews were conducted with a subset of participants at study completion. Quantitative data from structured interviews and group participation data were summarized descriptively, and qualitative data were coded and summarized. Results A total of 41 ALHIV enrolled in the study. At baseline, 93% of participants reported existing phone access; 65% used the internet, and 64% were Facebook users. In addition, 37 participants completed the 5-session intervention, 32 actively posted comments in at least one session online, and at least half commented in each of the 5 sessions. Facilitators delivered most sessions as intended and on-time. Participants were enthusiastic about the intervention. Aspects of the intervention liked most by participants included interacting with other ALHIVs; learning about HIV; and sharing questions, experiences, and fears. The key recommendations were to include larger support groups and encourage more group interaction. Specific recommendations on various intervention components were made to improve the intervention. Conclusions This novel intervention was feasible to implement in a predominantly suburban and rural Nigerian setting. Social media may be leveraged to provide much-needed information and social support on platforms accessible and familiar to many people, even in resource-constrained communities. Our findings have been incorporated into the intervention, and an outcome study is underway. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03076996; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03076996 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/73oCCEBBC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Dulli
- Department of Program Sciences and Technical Support, Health Services Research, Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kathleen Ridgeway
- Department of Program Sciences and Technical Support, Health Services Research, Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC, United States
| | - Catherine Packer
- Department of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kate F Plourde
- Department of Program Sciences and Technical Support, Research Utilization, Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC, United States
| | - Tolulope Mumuni
- Center for Population and Reproductive Health (CPRH), College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Tosin Idaboh
- Nigeria Country Office, Family Health International (FHI 360), Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Adesola Olumide
- Center for Population and Reproductive Health (CPRH), College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oladosu Ojengbede
- Center for Population and Reproductive Health (CPRH), College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Donna R McCarraher
- Department of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, Family Health International (FHI 360), Durham, NC, United States
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Besthorn F, Kalomo EN, Lightfoot E, Liao M. The relationship between social support and anxiety amongst children living with HIV in rural northern Namibia. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2018; 17:293-300. [PMID: 30466364 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2018.1534748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study examined how HIV-related stigma and social support are related to anxiety among children living with HIV in rural northern Namibia. This is a cross-sectional exploratory study with a sample of 132 caregiver-child dyads. Our study found that higher levels of social support was correlated with lower levels of anxiety among children living with HIV, but higher levels of HIV-related stigma was not correlated with higher levels of anxiety. These findings point to the need for the development of more culturally and age specific interventions that enhance social support among children living with HIV, especially those in high-prevalence and socio-economically deprived settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Besthorn
- a Wichita State University , School of Social Work , Wichita , Kansas , USA
| | - Eveline N Kalomo
- a Wichita State University , School of Social Work , Wichita , Kansas , USA
| | - Elizabeth Lightfoot
- b University of Minnesota , School of Social Work , St Paul , Minnesota , USA
| | - Minli Liao
- c Morgan State University , School of Social Work , Baltimore , Maryland , USA
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18
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Zgambo M, Kalembo FW, Mbakaya BC. Risky behaviours and their correlates among adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Reprod Health 2018; 15:180. [PMID: 30355344 PMCID: PMC6201550 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-018-0614-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa encounter multiple health problems that are often unrecognised by the public and the healthcare workforce. The aim of this systematic review was to identify risky health behaviours and their associated factors among ALWHIV in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS We systematically searched for articles in Medline, SCOPUS, Directory of Open Access Journals, Science Direct, ProQuest, Psych-info, Web of science, WHO Global Index Medicus library, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Studies were included in this review if: they were original studies; participants were aged from 10 to 19 years; participants were ALWHIV or they had data from different key informants focusing on ALWHIV within the age group; they had health behaviours as an outcome; they were conducted in sub-Saharan Africa and were published before December 2016. Data were extracted and the quality of the studies was appraised using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). RESULTS Thirty-six studies met the eligibility criteria. Nineteen studies scored 100% (indicating high quality), sixteen studies scored 75% (indicating moderate quality) and one study scored 50% (indicating low quality) on the MMAT scale. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy among ALWHIV was suboptimal and was negatively affected by forgetfulness, opportunistic infection, long distance to clinics, and fear of unplanned disclosure. Many adolescents were sexually active, but the majority did not disclose their HIV status to sexual partners, despite knowing their diagnosis (range 76-100% across available studies) and some did not use protection (condoms) to prevent transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (range 35-55%). Disclosure to and from adolescents was low across the studies and was associated with fear of disclosure aftermaths including stigma and discrimination (range 40-57%). CONCLUSION A considerable proportion of ALWHIV in sub-Saharan Africa engage in multiple risky health behaviours, which have a substantial negative impact on their wellbeing and cause significant risk and burden to their families, sexual partners and societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Zgambo
- St John’s College of Nursing and Midwifery, P.O Box 18, Mzuzu, Malawi
| | - Fatch Welcome Kalembo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Mzuzu University, Private Bag 201, Luwinga, Mzuzu 2, Malawi
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19
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West N, Schwartz S, Mudavanhu M, Hanrahan C, France H, Nel J, Mutunga L, Bernhardt S, Bassett J, Van Rie A. Mental health in South African adolescents living with HIV. AIDS Care 2018; 31:117-124. [PMID: 30304947 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1533222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We examined the prevalence of mental health conditions, social support, and associated factors among adolescents living with HIV. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis with adolescents (ages 9-19) attending a primary care clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. We analyzed the results of four self-report tools: Children's Depression Inventory-Short, Revised Manifest Anxiety Scale, Child Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist, and a modified version of the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Scale. We used robust Poisson regression to quantify the association between social support and mental health. Among 278 adolescents, the majority were perinatally infected with HIV (92%), and had at least one deceased parent (59%). Depression symptom threshold scores were found among 8% of adolescents, and 7% screened positive for symptoms of anxiety. Few (1%) met the criteria for PTSD. Overall, 12% of adolescents screened positive for symptoms of depression, anxiety or PTSD. Older adolescents reported less social support than younger adolescents. Adolescents were less likely to have mental health symptoms if they had higher measures of social support (adjusted Prevalence Ratio 0.38, 95% CI 0.20-0.73). Attention should be paid to social support for adolescents living with HIV as this may play an important role in their mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora West
- a Department of Epidemiology , Johns Hopkins School of Public Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Sheree Schwartz
- a Department of Epidemiology , Johns Hopkins School of Public Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Mutsa Mudavanhu
- b Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Colleen Hanrahan
- a Department of Epidemiology , Johns Hopkins School of Public Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Holly France
- b Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Jeremy Nel
- c Department of Infectious Diseases , Helen Joseph Hospital , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Lillian Mutunga
- b Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | | | - Jean Bassett
- b Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Annelies Van Rie
- d University of Antwerp , Antwerp , Belgium.,e Department of Epidemiology , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health , Chapel Hill , USA
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20
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Kalembo FW, Kendall GE, Ali M, Chimwaza AF, Tallon MM. Primary caregivers, healthcare workers, teachers and community leaders' perceptions and experiences of their involvement, practice and challenges of disclosure of HIV status to children living with HIV in Malawi: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:884. [PMID: 30012133 PMCID: PMC6048770 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5820-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organisation has recommended that healthcare workers, teachers and community leaders work with parents to support children living with HIV. The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions and experiences of primary caregivers and other care providers such as healthcare workers, teachers, and community leaders regarding their involvement, practice and challenges of HIV disclosure to children aged between 6 and 12 years living with HIV in Malawi. Methods Twelve focus group discussions and 19 one-on-one interviews involving a total of 106 participants were conducted in all three administrative regions of Malawi. The interviews and focus group discussions explored perceptions and experiences regarding involvement, practice and challenges of disclosure of HIV status to children. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Primary caregivers, healthcare workers, teachers, and community leaders all reported that the disclosure of HIV status to children was not well coordinated because each of the groups of participants was working in isolation instead of working as a team. A “working together” model emerged from the data analysis where participants expressed the need for them to work as a team in order to promote safe and effective HIV status disclosure through talking about HIV, sharing responsibility and open communication. Participants reported that by working together, the team members would ensure that the prevalence of HIV disclosure to young children increases and that there would be a reduction in any negative impact of disclosure. Conclusion Global resources are required to better support children living with HIV and their families. Healthcare workers and teachers would benefit greatly from training in working together with families living with HIV and, specifically, training in the disclosure process. Resources, in the form of books and other educational materials, would help them explain HIV and its effective management to children and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatch W Kalembo
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Australia. .,Mzuzu University, Mzuzu, Malawi.
| | - Garth E Kendall
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Mohammed Ali
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Mary M Tallon
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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21
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Toth G, Mburu G, Tuot S, Khol V, Ngin C, Chhoun P, Yi S. Social-support needs among adolescents living with HIV in transition from pediatric to adult care in Cambodia: findings from a cross-sectional study. AIDS Res Ther 2018; 15:8. [PMID: 29592818 PMCID: PMC5872568 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-018-0195-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the circumstances of adolescents living with HIV is critical in designing adolescent-friendly services that will facilitate successful transition from pediatric to adult care. This study describes access, utilization and ongoing social support needs among adolescents living with HIV aged 15-17 in transition from pediatric to adult HIV care in Cambodia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 adolescents, randomly selected from 11 antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics across the country. Descriptive analyses were conducted to summarize their characteristics, access to social support and ongoing support needs among male and female adolescents. RESULTS Mean age of the study participants was 15.8 (SD = 0.8) years. Just over half (55.2%) were male. Most had at least one deceased parent (mother 50.9%; father 60.5%), and majority were living with biological parents (40.8%) or relatives (49.3%). A third came from families with an ID poor card, and 21.0% were working for pay. Almost half (46.6%) reported that their family had received social support for their health care, including food support (76.5%), school allowance (62.1%), transport allowance to ART clinics (53.6%), psychosocial counseling (35.3%), vocational training (22.9%) or home visits (11.1%). Several ongoing social support needs were identified, including ongoing inability to cover health expenses unless they are supported by health insurance or health equity fund (55.0%). In addition, adolescents reported having been asked to come back earlier than their scheduled appointment (13.7%), having had to purchase their own drugs (2.7%), experiencing HIV stigma (32.0%), having been denied housing or food due to HIV (8.2%) or failing to attend school within the past month partly because of HIV (16.8%). Two-thirds did not have access to peer support groups. CONCLUSIONS Social protection mechanisms are reaching some adolescents in need, while other remain without social support due to discontinuities in health and social care. Multi-sectoral interventions, supporting school attendance, adolescent-friendly clinic scheduling, reductions in child employment, mitigation of HIV-related stigma and strengthening of peer-to-peer support are required to improve coverage of social protection interventions for adolescents in transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham Toth
- Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Gitau Mburu
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Vohith Khol
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Chanrith Ngin
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Siyan Yi
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Center for Global Health Research, Touro University California, Vallejo, USA
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22
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Mackworth-Young CR, Bond V, Wringe A, Konayuma K, Clay S, Chiiya C, Chonta M, Sievwright K, Stangl AL. "My mother told me that I should not": a qualitative study exploring the restrictions placed on adolescent girls living with HIV in Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 20. [PMID: 29219248 PMCID: PMC5810345 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Adolescent girls in sub‐Saharan Africa are disproportionately affected by HIV due to a range of social and structural factors. As they transition to adulthood, they are recipients of increasing blame for HIV infection and ‘improper’ sex, as well as increasing scrutiny, restrictions and surveillance. This study used a qualitative and participatory approach to explore the messaging and restrictions imposed on adolescent girls living with HIV in Zambia. Methods Thirty‐four in‐depth interviews and four participatory workshops were carried out with 24 adolescent girls aged 15 to 19 years old living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. Key themes explored included experiences living with HIV, finding out about HIV status, disclosure, experiences with antiretroviral treatment, and support needs. Data were organized, coded and analysed using a grounded theory approach to thematic analysis. This analysis uses data on participants’ experiences of living with HIV and their interactions with their parents, guardians and healthcare providers. Results Family and healthcare providers, partly in a quest to protect both the health of adolescent girls living with HIV and also to protect them from blaming discourse, imposed restrictions on their behaviour around three main topics: don't disclose your HIV status, don't have sex, and don't miss your medicines. These restrictions were often delivered using tactics of fear, and usually disconnected from other options. Participants responded to these messages in several ways, including internalizing the messages, changing their behaviour either to comply with or resist the restrictions, by remaining silent and anxious when restrictions were broken, and developing concerns around their own health and sexual and reproductive aspirations. Participants also sometimes experiencing stigma when restrictions could not be maintained. Conclusions Restrictive messages were delivered to adolescent girls living with HIV through the broader social discourses of stigma, religion, and global and local narratives about HIV. Programmes aiming to support adolescent girls living with HIV need to work together with parents and healthcare providers to reflect on the impact of sanctioning messages, and to encourage more enabling and empowering messaging for adolescent girls living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance Rs Mackworth-Young
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Social Science Department, Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Virginia Bond
- Department of Global Health and Development, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Social Science Department, Zambart, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Alison Wringe
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sue Clay
- 3Cs Regional Consultants, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | | | | | - Anne L Stangl
- International Center for Research on Women, Washington, DC, USA
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23
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McHugh G, Simms V, Dziva Chikwari C, Mujuru H, Nathoo K, Chonzi P, Munyati S, Dauya E, Bandason T, Busza J, Ferrand RA. Familial silence surrounding HIV and non-disclosure of HIV status to older children and adolescents. AIDS Care 2018; 30:830-835. [PMID: 29397759 PMCID: PMC5964448 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1434118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of children with HIV are surviving to adolescence and beyond, many of whom are orphaned. Disclosure of childrens' and adolescents' HIV status has been shown to improve adherence and retention in HIV treatment programmes. We investigated caregiving arrangements and intra-familial experience of HIV and its relationship to HIV disclosure to older children and adolescents. Children aged 6–15 years, newly diagnosed with HIV infection or previously diagnosed but not engaged in HIV care, were recruited from seven primary care clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe. Their caregivers responded to a nurse-led questionnaire. Family history of HIV, disclosure of HIV status to the child and reasons for non-disclosure were ascertained. The association between sociodemographics, caregiving, family HIV history and other characteristics and non-disclosure of HIV status to the child was determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. We recruited 385 participants, median age = 11 years (IQR: 9–13); 52% were female. Disclosure had occurred in 79% of children aged 11–15 years and 19% of children aged 6–10 years. Age under 11 years (adjusted OR [aOR] = 18.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.64–33.55; p < 0.001), being male [aOR]= 2.56, 95% CI = 1.49–4.54; p = 0.001, being unaware of the parents’ HIV status [aOR]= 32.42, 95% CI = 13.19–79.71; p < 0.001, and being newly diagnosed [aOR]= 2.52, 95% CI = 1.29–4.91; p = 0.007, were independently associated with non-disclosure. Disclosure outside of the family occurred infrequently and included friends of family (7%), school teacher (8%), school headmaster (4%) and church pastor (6%). High non-disclosure rates were present as well as a lack of discussion about HIV within the family. Disclosure outside of family was low reflecting difficulty in caregivers’ ability to discuss HIV with their child or surrounding community. HIV programmes need to support families in the disclosure process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace McHugh
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Victoria Simms
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe.,b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Hilda Mujuru
- c Department of Paediatrics , University of Zimbabwe , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Kusum Nathoo
- c Department of Paediatrics , University of Zimbabwe , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | | | - Shungu Munyati
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Ethel Dauya
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Tsitsi Bandason
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Joanna Busza
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Rashida A Ferrand
- a Biomedical Research and Training Institute , Harare , Zimbabwe.,b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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24
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Scaling a waterfall: a meta-ethnography of adolescent progression through the stages of HIV care in sub-Saharan Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 20:21922. [PMID: 28953326 PMCID: PMC5640312 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.1.21922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Observational studies have shown considerable attrition among adolescents living with HIV across the “cascade” of HIV care in sub-Saharan Africa, leading to higher mortality rates compared to HIV-infected adults or children. We synthesized evidence from qualitative studies on factors that promote or undermine engagement with HIV services among adolescents living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: We systematically searched five databases for studies published between 2005 and 2016 that met pre-defined inclusion criteria. We used a meta-ethnographic approach to identify first, second and third order constructs from eligible studies, and applied a socio-ecological framework to situate our results across different levels of influence, and in relation to each stage of the HIV cascade. Results and discussion: We identified 3089 citations, of which 24 articles were eligible for inclusion. Of these, 17 were from Southern Africa while 11 were from Eastern Africa. 6 explored issues related to HIV testing, 11 explored treatment adherence, and 7 covered multiple stages of the cascade. Twelve third-order constructs emerged to explain adolescents’ engagement in HIV care. Stigma was the most salient factor impeding adolescents’ interactions with HIV care over the past decade. Self-efficacy to adapt to life with HIV and support from family or social networks were critical enablers supporting uptake and retention in HIV care and treatment programmes. Provision of adolescent-friendly services and health systems issues, such as the availability of efficient, confidential and comfortable services, were also reported to drive sustained care engagement. Individual-level factors, including past illness experiences, identifying mechanisms to manage pill-taking in social situations, financial (in)stability and the presence/absence of future aspirations also shaped adolescents HIV care engagement. Conclusions: Adolescents’ initial and ongoing use of HIV care was frequently undermined by individual-level issues; although family, community and health systems factors played important roles. Interventions should prioritise addressing psychosocial issues among adolescents to promote individual-level engagement with HIV care, and ultimately reduce mortality. Further research should explore issues relating to care linkage and ART initiation in different settings, particularly as “test and treat” policies are scaled up.
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25
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Namukwaya S, Paparini S, Seeley J, Bernays S. "How Do We Start? And How Will They React?" Disclosing to Young People with Perinatally Acquired HIV in Uganda. Front Public Health 2017; 5:343. [PMID: 29326918 PMCID: PMC5733349 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great advances in pediatric HIV care, rates and the extent of full disclosure of HIV status to infected children remain low especially in resource-constrained setting. The World Health Organisation recommends that, by the age of 10–12 years old, children should be made fully aware of their HIV-positive status. However, this awareness is often delayed until much later in their adolescence. Few studies have been conducted to investigate what influences caregivers’ decision-making process in this regard in low-income settings. In this article, we present an analysis of care dyads of caregivers and HIV-positive young people in Kampala, Uganda, as part of the findings of a longitudinal qualitative study about young people’s adherence to antiretroviral therapy embedded in an international clinical trial (BREATHER). Repeat in-depth interviews were conducted with 26 young people living with HIV throughout the course of the trial, and once-off interviews with 16 of their caregivers were also carried out toward the end of the trial. In this article, we examine why and how caregivers decide to disclose a young person’s HIV status to them and explore their feelings and dilemmas toward disclosure, as well as how young people reacted and the influence it had on their relationships with and attitudes toward their caregivers. Caregivers feared the consequences of disclosing the young person’s positive status to them and disclosure commonly occurred hurriedly in response to a crisis, rather than as part of an anticipated and planned process. A key impediment to disclosure was that caregivers feared that disclosing would damage their relationships with the young people and commonly used this as a reason to continue to postpone disclosure. However, young people did not report prolonged feelings of blame or anger toward their caregivers about their own infection, but they did express frustration at the delay and obfuscation surrounding the disclosure process. Our findings can inform the ways in which mainstream HIV services support caregivers through the disclosure process. This includes providing positive encouragement to disclose fully and to be more confident in initiating and sustaining the timely process of disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Namukwaya
- Medical Research Council (MRC), Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sara Paparini
- Anthropology and Sociology of Development, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Janet Seeley
- Medical Research Council (MRC), Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.,Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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26
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Knizek BL, Mugisha J, Osafo J, Kinyanda E. Growing up HIV-positive in Uganda: "psychological immunodeficiency"? A qualitative study. BMC Psychol 2017; 5:30. [PMID: 28841921 PMCID: PMC6389182 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-017-0199-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study is part of a longitudinal study among children and adolescents with HIV in both urban and rural Uganda: 'Mental health among HIV infected CHildren and Adolescents in KAmpala and Masaka, Uganda (CHAKA)'. METHOD The study is constructed of both quantitative and qualitative components. In this article we report a qualitative study on the experiences of 21 adolescents (twelve to seventeen years) living with HIV in Uganda. The purpose of the study was to investigate both the protective and the risk factors in HIV-infected adolescents' care environment in order to understand what might contribute to negative outcomes and what might provide a protective buffer against harmful life events. Semi-structured interviews with vignettes about mental disorders were employed and a phenomenological analysis was done. RESULTS The findings uncovered that the adolescents' families were mostly characterized by instability and diffuse relationships that provided an insecure basis for secure attachment and emotional support. Even in stable and secure family environments, there was no guarantee for getting sufficient emotional support in order to develop a positive self-concept due to the fate being the only infected child in the family. Both secure attachment and positive self-concept are known psychological protective mechanisms that provide the individual with resilience. The adolescents in this study seemed hampered in the development of protective mechanisms and consequently seemed psychologically vulnerable and badly equipped for coping with challenges, which paves the way for the possible development of mental disorders. CONCLUSION To change the focus towards strengthening the children and adolescents' development of psychological protective mechanisms implicates a change in focus from illness to health and has consequences for both treatment and prevention. Psychological health promotion must be systemic and aim at strengthening the family environment, but also to establish peer group support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birthe Loa Knizek
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Health and Social Science, NO-7491, Trondheim, Norway.
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27
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Toska E, Pantelic M, Meinck F, Keck K, Haghighat R, Cluver L. Sex in the shadow of HIV: A systematic review of prevalence, risk factors, and interventions to reduce sexual risk-taking among HIV-positive adolescents and youth in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178106. [PMID: 28582428 PMCID: PMC5459342 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on sexual risk-taking among HIV-positive adolescents and youth in sub-Saharan Africa is urgently needed. This systematic review synthesizes the extant research on prevalence, factors associated with, and interventions to reduce sexual risk-taking among HIV-positive adolescents and youth in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Studies were located through electronic databases, grey literature, reference harvesting, and contact with researchers. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Quantitative studies that reported on HIV-positive participants (10-24 year olds), included data on at least one of eight outcomes (early sexual debut, inconsistent condom use, older partner, transactional sex, multiple sexual partners, sex while intoxicated, sexually transmitted infections, and pregnancy), and were conducted in sub-Saharan Africa were included. Two authors piloted all processes, screened studies, extracted data independently, and resolved any discrepancies. Due to variance in reported rates and factors associated with sexual risk-taking, meta-analyses were not conducted. RESULTS 610 potentially relevant titles/abstracts resulted in the full text review of 251 records. Forty-two records (n = 35 studies) reported one or multiple sexual practices for 13,536 HIV-positive adolescents/youth from 13 sub-Saharan African countries. Seventeen cross-sectional studies reported on individual, relationship, family, structural, and HIV-related factors associated with sexual risk-taking. However, the majority of the findings were inconsistent across studies, and most studies scored <50% in the quality checklist. Living with a partner, living alone, gender-based violence, food insecurity, and employment were correlated with increased sexual risk-taking, while knowledge of own HIV-positive status and accessing HIV support groups were associated with reduced sexual risk-taking. Of the four intervention studies (three RCTs), three evaluated group-based interventions, and one evaluated an individual-focused combination intervention. Three of the interventions were effective at reducing sexual risk-taking, with one reporting no difference between the intervention and control groups. CONCLUSION Sexual risk-taking among HIV-positive adolescents and youth is high, with inconclusive evidence on potential determinants. Few known studies test secondary HIV-prevention interventions for HIV-positive youth. Effective and feasible low-cost interventions to reduce risk are urgently needed for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Franziska Meinck
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- OPTENTIA, School of Behavioural Sciences, North-West University, Vanderbeijlpark, South Africa
| | - Katharina Keck
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Oxford Policy Management, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Roxanna Haghighat
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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28
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Bernays S, Paparini S, Seeley J, Rhodes T. "Not Taking it Will Just be Like a Sin": Young People Living with HIV and the Stigmatization of Less-Than-Perfect Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy. Med Anthropol 2017; 36:485-499. [PMID: 28379042 DOI: 10.1080/01459740.2017.1306856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Global health priorities are being set to address questions on adherence to HIV antiretroviral therapy in adolescence. Few studies have explored young people's perspectives on the complex host of social and relational challenges they face in dealing with their treatment in secret and their condition in silence. In redressing this, we present findings from a longitudinal qualitative study with young people living with HIV in the UK, Ireland, US, and Uganda, embedded within the BREATHER international clinical trial. Drawing from Goffman's notion of stigma, we analyze relational dynamics in HIV clinics, as rare spaces where HIV is "known," and how young people's relationships may be threatened by non-adherence to treatment. Young people's reflections on and strategies for maintaining their reputation as patients raise questions about particular forms of medicalization of HIV and the moralization of treatment adherence that affect them, and how these may restrict opportunities for care across the epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bernays
- a School of Public Health , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia.,b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , United Kingdom
| | - Sara Paparini
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , United Kingdom.,c Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Janet Seeley
- d Medical Research Council , Uganda Virus Research Institute , Entebbe , Uganda
| | - Tim Rhodes
- b London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , London , United Kingdom
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29
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Woollett N, Cluver L, Bandeira M, Brahmbhatt H. Identifying risks for mental health problems in HIV positive adolescents accessing HIV treatment in Johannesburg. J Child Adolesc Ment Health 2017; 29:11-26. [PMID: 28287023 DOI: 10.2989/17280583.2017.1283320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health problems of adolescents are underserved in low and middle-income countries where they account for a significant proportion of disease burden. Perinatally infected HIV-positive adolescents have a high prevalence of mental health disorders; however, little is known about those retained in care in South Africa. METHODS HIV-positive adolescents aged 13-19 years (n = 343) accessing five paediatric antiretroviral clinics in Johannesburg were assessed using standardized measures for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidality. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted on all variables using Statistica v13. RESULTS Twenty-seven percent were symptomatic for depression, anxiety, or PTSD; 24% reported suicidality. Peer violence was significantly correlated to all mental health problems, as was hunger, being inappropriately touched, being hit, and being female. Those reporting sickness in the past year were more symptomatic. High exposure to violence was evident. Additionally, not feeling safe at home or in the community increased risk for all mental health disorders. Knowing one's HIV status was protective as was having dreams for the future. CONCLUSION HIV-positive adolescents accessing care demonstrated high levels of mental health problems that are largely unrecognized and could potentially be addressed within health systems. Mental health difficulties are driven by social challenges that require attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Woollett
- a Wits School of Clinical Medicine , University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa.,b Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa.,c Wits School of Public Health , University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- d Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , United Kingdom
| | | | - Heena Brahmbhatt
- b Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa.,f Department of Population, Reproductive and Family Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health , Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , USA
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30
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Ndongmo TN, Ndongmo CB, Michelo C. Sexual and reproductive health knowledge and behavior among adolescents living with HIV in Zambia: a case study. Pan Afr Med J 2017; 26:71. [PMID: 28451048 PMCID: PMC5398862 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2017.26.71.11312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction As HIV infected adolescents mature into adulthood, they are confronted with issues related to sexuality and sexual reproductive health (SRH). An estimated 68,000 adolescents aged 10-19 years are living with HIV in Zambia. The current study explores their sexuality and SRH experience and needs. Methods This was a mixed method analytical cross-sectional study. Adolescents at a tertiary hospital were surveyed on their sexuality and SRH experiences. Bivariate analyses on SPSS were used to assess factors associated with selected behaviors. Emerging themes from open-ended questions qualitative data were explored using content analysis. Results A total of 148 adolescents (63.5% females) aged 15-19 years were surveyed. Majority (77.0%) had secondary education; 77.2% currently in school; 40.1 % had a boy or girlfriend; 15.1% have ever had sex, of whom only 61.1 % reported consistent condom use. About 68.9 % expressed intention to have children; 2.1% of girls had been pregnant before. Of 52 respondents, 19.2% had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) before. Not being in school was a significant predictor, for knowing where to access information about sex (OR= 2.53; 95% CI:1.10-5.82; p=0.02), and also for ever gone there (OR=2.61; 95% CI:1.04-6.58; p=0.03). Conclusion The survey of HIV infected adolescents attending a tertiary hospital in Zambia found that their sexuality and SRH needs remain similar to those of the general adolescent population in terms of counseling in sexual matters, family planning and STI services. More efforts are needed to provide for adolescent health care needs, especially those living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clement Bertin Ndongmo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Charles Michelo
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
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31
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Xu L, Munir K, Kanabkaew C, Le Coeur S. Factors influencing antiretroviral treatment suboptimal adherence among perinatally HIV-infected adolescents in Thailand. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172392. [PMID: 28207891 PMCID: PMC5312953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Existing studies have suggested decreased adherence and rebound in mortality in perinatally HIV-infected adolescents receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) as compared to adults and young children. Methods We used both quantitative and qualitative approaches to identify factors influencing adherence among perinatally infected adolescents in Thailand. We analyzed data from 568 pairs of perinatally infected adolescents (aged 12–19) and their primary caregivers in the Teens Living With Antiretrovirals (TEEWA) study, a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2010–2012. We also conducted 12 in-depth interviews in 2014 with infected adolescents or their primary caregivers to elicit experiences of living with long-term ART. Results From the quantitative analysis, a total of 275 (48.4%) adolescents had evidence of suboptimal adherence based on this composite outcome: adolescents self-reported missing doses in the past 7 days, caregiver rating of overall adherence as suboptimal, or latest HIV-RNA viral load ≥1000 copies/ml. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, younger age, having grandparents or extended family members as the primary caregiver, caregiver-assessed poor intellectual ability, having a boy/girlfriend, frequent online chatting, self-reported unhappiness and easiness in asking doctors questions were significantly associated with suboptimal adherence. From the in-depth interviews, tensed relationships with caregivers, forgetfulness due to busy schedules, and fear of disclosing HIV status to others, especially boy/girlfriends, were important contributors to suboptimal adherence. Social and emotional support and counseling from peer group was consistently reported as a strong adherence-promoting factor. Conclusion Our findings highlight unique barriers of ART adherence among the perinatally infected adolescents. Future interventions should be targeted at helping adolescents to improve interpersonal relationships and build adaptive skills in recognizing and addressing challenging situations related to ART taking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyi Xu
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kerim Munir
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
- Developmental Medicine Center, Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States of America
| | - Cheeraya Kanabkaew
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD) 174-PHPT, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Sophie Le Coeur
- Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD) 174-PHPT, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Institut National d’Etudes Démographiques (INED), Paris, France
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States of America
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32
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Kajubi P, Whyte SR, Kyaddondo D, Katahoire AR. Tensions in Communication between Children on Antiretroviral Therapy and Their Caregivers: A Qualitative Study in Jinja District, Uganda. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147119. [PMID: 26784904 PMCID: PMC4718696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV treatment and disclosure guidelines emphasize the importance of communicating diagnosis and treatment to infected children in ways that are appropriate to children’s developmental stage and age. Minimal attention, however, has been given to communication challenges confronted by HIV-infected children and their caregivers. This study examined the tensions between children and their caregivers arising from differing perspectives regarding when and what to communicate about antiretroviral therapy (ART). Methods This qualitative study was conducted between November 2011 and December 2012 and involved 29 HIV-infected children aged 8–17 years on ART and their caregivers. Data were collected through observations and in-depth interviews, which took place in homes, treatment centres and post-test clubs. Children and caregivers were sampled from among the 394 HIV-infected children and (their) 393 caregivers who participated in the cross-sectional survey that preceded the qualitative study. ATLAS.ti. Version 7 was used in the management of the qualitative data and in the coding of the emerging themes. The data were then analyzed using content thematic analysis. Results While the children felt that they were mature enough to know what they were suffering and what the medications were for, the caregivers wanted to delay discussions relating to the children’s HIV diagnosis and medication until they felt that the children were mature enough to deal with the information and keep it a secret and this caused a lot of tension. The children employed different tactics including refusing to take the medicines, to find out what they were suffering from and what the medications were for. Children also had their own ideas about when, where and with whom to discuss their HIV condition, ideas that did not necessarily coincide with those of their caregivers, resulting in tensions. Conclusions Guidelines should take into consideration differing perceptions of maturity when recommending ages at which caregivers should communicate with their children about diagnosis and ART. Health care providers should also encourage caregivers to recognize and respect children’s efforts to learn about and manage their condition. Children’s questions and expressions of feelings should be treated as openings for communication on these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Kajubi
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | | | - David Kyaddondo
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Ruhweza Katahoire
- Child Health and Development Centre, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Pretorius L, Gibbs A, Crankshaw T, Willan S. Interventions targeting sexual and reproductive health and rights outcomes of young people living with HIV: a comprehensive review of current interventions from sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Health Action 2015; 8:28454. [PMID: 26534721 PMCID: PMC4631708 DOI: 10.3402/gha.v8.28454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 08/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A growing number of young people (ages 10–24) are living with HIV (YPLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These YPLWH have particular needs and challenges related to their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Contextual factors including gender inequalities, violence, stigma, and discrimination and lack of tailored services undermine YPLWH's SRHR. Objective Understand the scope and impact of interventions targeting YPLWH to improve SRH-related outcomes in SSA. Design We undertook a review to synthesise evaluated interventions (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods) aimed at improving the SRH outcomes of YPLWH in SSA with outcomes based on a World Health Organization framework of comprehensive SRHR approaches for women living with HIV. Using inclusion criteria, only six interventions were identified. Results Interventions sought to improve a range of direct and indirect SRH outcomes, including sexual behaviour, adherence, disclosure, and mental health. Four overarching issues emerged: 1) all interventions were structured according to cognitive behavioural therapy theories of behaviour change – while showing promise they do not tackle the wider gender, social, and economic contexts that shape YPLWH's SRH; 2) ‘significant others’ were included in two of the interventions, but further work needs to consider how to leverage parental/guardian support appropriately; 3) interventions only accessed young people who were already linked to care, participants were likely to have better SRH outcomes than those potentially more vulnerable YPLWH; and 4) none of the interventions explored the sexuality of young people. Conclusions There have been a limited number of evaluated interventions to strengthen SRH of YPLWH in SSA, and gaps exist in addressing the SRHR needs of YPLWH. Intervention approaches require greater scope and depth, including the need to address structural and contextual challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandri Pretorius
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa;
| | - Andrew Gibbs
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Tamaryn Crankshaw
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Samantha Willan
- Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
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Nöstlinger C, Bakeera-Kitaka S, Buyze J, Loos J, Buvé A. Factors influencing social self-disclosure among adolescents living with HIV in Eastern Africa. AIDS Care 2015; 27 Suppl 1:36-46. [PMID: 26616124 PMCID: PMC4685614 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1051501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) face many psychosocial challenges, including HIV disclosure to others. Given the importance of socialization during the adolescent transition process, this study investigated the psychological and social factors influencing self-disclosure of own HIV status to peers. We examined social HIV self-disclosure to peers, and its relationship to perceived HIV-related stigma, self-efficacy to disclose, self-esteem, and social support among a sample of n = 582 ALHIV aged 13-17 years in Kampala, Uganda, and Western Kenya. Data were collected between February and April 2011. Among them, 39% were double orphans. We conducted a secondary data analysis to assess the degree of social disclosure, reactions received, and influencing factors. Interviewer-administered questionnaires assessed medical, socio-demographic, and psychological variables (Rosenberg self-esteem scale; self-efficacy to disclose to peers), HIV-related stigma (10-item stigma scale), and social support (family-life and friends). Descriptive, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were performed with social self-disclosure to peers with gender as covariates. Almost half of ALHIV had told nobody (except health-care providers) about their HIV status, and about 18% had disclosed to either one of their friends, schoolmates, or a boy- or girlfriend. Logistic regression models revealed that having disclosed to peers was significantly related to being older, being a paternal orphan, contributing to family income, regular visits to the HIV clinic, and greater social support through peers. Low self-efficacy to disclose was negatively associated to the outcome variable. While social self-disclosure was linked to individual factors such as self-efficacy, factors relating to the social context and adolescents' access to psychosocial resources play an important role. ALHIV need safe environments to practice disclosure skills. Interventions should enable them to make optimal use of available psychosocial resources even under constraining conditions such as disruptive family structures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabrina Bakeera-Kitaka
- Baylor-Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Paediatrics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jozefien Buyze
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jasna Loos
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anne Buvé
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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