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Nice J, Saltzman L, Thurman TR, Zani B. Latent class analysis of ART barriers among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38422434 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This study examined adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in South Africa. Using survey data from 857 youth on ART, the study employed latent class analysis to identify subgroups based on self-reported reasons for missed ART doses. Three distinct classes emerged: the largest class (85%) occasionally forgot to take their medication or missed a dose because others were around, the second class (9%) missed doses only due to feeling sick, and the third class (6%) faced multiple barriers such as forgetting, feeling sick, worrying about side effects, or doubting the effectiveness of ART. Youth who reported multiple barriers to adherence had significantly lower adjusted odds (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.16-0.78) of reporting 90% past month adherence compared to those who occasionally forgot their medication. Additionally, contextual factors such as food security, being treated well at the clinic, and being accompanied to the clinic were associated with higher odds of adherence. The findings highlight the importance of considering co-occurring barriers to adherence and tailoring interventions accordingly. Addressing contextual factors, such as ensuring food security and providing supportive clinic environments, is also crucial for promoting optimal adherence among adolescents and young adults living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Nice
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Leia Saltzman
- Tulane University School of Social Work, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tonya R Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- International Health and Sustainable Development department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Babalwa Zani
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Tulane International LLC, Cape Town, South Africa
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Zhou S, Toska E, Langwenya N, Edun O, Cluver L, Knight L. Exploring Self-reported Adherence Measures to Screen for Elevated HIV Viral Load in Adolescents: A South African Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3537-3547. [PMID: 37067612 PMCID: PMC10589188 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
The timely identification of ART non-adherence among adolescents living with HIV presents a significant challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings where virologic monitoring is suboptimal. Using South African adolescent cohort data (N = 933, mean age 13.6 ± 2.89 years, 55.1% female, follow-up = 2014-2018), we examined the association between elevated viral load (VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL) and seven self-reported adherence measures on missed doses, and clinic appointments -with varying recall timeframes. The best performing measures, which were significantly associated with elevated viral load in covariate-adjusted models are: any missed dose -past 3 days (sensitivity = 91.6% [95%CI: 90.3-92.8], positive predictive value (PPV) = 78.8% [95%CI: 77.2-80.4]), -past week (sensitivity = 87% [95%CI: 85.4-88.6], PPV = 78.2% [95%CI: 76.5-79.9]), -past month (sensitivity = 79.5% [95%CI: 77.5-81.4], PPV = 78.2% [95%CI: 76.4-79.9]), any past-month days missed (sensitivity = 86.7% [95%CI: 85.1-88.3], PPV = 77.9% [95%CI:76.2-79.6]), and any missed clinic appointment (sensitivity = 88.3% [95%CI: 86.8-89.8], PPV = 78.4% [95%CI: 76.8-79.9]). Combining the three best performing measures missed dose -past 3 days, -past week, and any past-year missed clinic appointment increased sensitivity to 96.4% while maintaining a PPV of about 78%. The discriminatory power of simple and easy-to-administer self-reported adherence measures in detecting elevated viral load warrants consideration in resource-limited settings and may contribute to the aims of the new Global Alliance to End AIDS in children and adolescents by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyanai Zhou
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nontokozo Langwenya
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Olanrewaju Edun
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Jackman KMP, Ohene-Kyei ET, Barfield A, Atanda F, Smith R, Huettner S, Agwu A, Trent M. Patient Portal Privacy: Perspectives of Adolescents and Emerging Adults Living with HIV and the Parental/Guardian Role in Supporting Their Care. Appl Clin Inform 2023; 14:752-762. [PMID: 37729944 PMCID: PMC10511274 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1772685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing the percentage of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), including youth, who are virally suppressed to 95% is an overall goal of the ending the HIV epidemic initiative. While patient portals have become ubiquitous, questions remain about how best to operationalize parental/guardian access to youth's patient portals in alignment with optimizing HIV care outcomes and patient preferences. This qualitative study focuses on understanding perspectives among youth with HIV (YHIV) about parental access to patient portals. METHODS Eligible participants were YHIV aged 13 to 25 years receiving care at an urban academic hospital. Semistructured individual/paired interviews were conducted between May 2022 and March 2023. Participants were asked to discuss thoughts on parental access to patient portals, and roles parents/guardians have in supporting their HIV care. Semistructured interviews were conducted with adolescent and emerging adult health care workers (HCWs) to gain perspectives on YHIV emergent themes. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and we conducted thematic analysis using an inductive approach to identify codes and themes. RESULTS Sixteen YHIV and four HCWs participated in interviews. Parental roles in coordinating HIV care ranged from supporting YHIV needs for transportation, acquiring, and taking medications, to not having any role at all. Participants shared heterogeneous perspectives about their openness to share patient portal access with their parents/guardians. Perspectives were not strictly congruent along lines of participant age or parental roles in helping youth to manage HIV care. Sharing passwords emerged both as a pathway that YHIV grant access to their accounts and a source of confusion for clinicians when parents/guardians send messages using their child's account. CONCLUSION Findings suggest HCWs should initiate conversations with YHIV patients to determine preferences for parental/guardian access to their patient portal, educate on proxy access, and explain the extent of medical information that is shared with proxy accounts, regardless of age and perceived parental involvement in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevon-Mark P. Jackman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Elise Tirza Ohene-Kyei
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Ashle Barfield
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Fopefoluwa Atanda
- Department of Biology, School of Computer, Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Raina Smith
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Steven Huettner
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Allison Agwu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Maria Trent
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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Olashore AA, Chiliza B, Paruk S. Antiretroviral therapy non-adherence and its relationship with cognitive impairment, alcohol use disorder, and depression in adolescents living with HIV. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:532. [PMID: 37488527 PMCID: PMC10367307 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05000-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare antiretroviral non-adherence in the behaviourally infected (BIAs) and congenitally infected adolescents (CIAs) and explore its associations with depression, cognitive impairment, and alcohol use disorder (AUD) in adolescents living with HIV(ALWHIV) in Botswana. METHODS This study was a cross-sectional, comparative, multi-center research that involved collecting samples from different HIV clinics in Botswana. Of the 622 ALWHIV, 223 were identified as BIAs and 399 as CIAs. They were evaluated using various tools such as MINI-KID for psychiatric disorders, DSM-5 for AUD, CAT-rapid for cognitive assessment, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for non-adherence (the outcome). The data were analysed using both bivariate and multivariate regression analyses. RESULTS The participants' mean age (SD) was 17.7(1.60). The CIAs were more likely to have cognitive impairment (t -7.25; p < 0.01), while the BIAs had more depression (χ2 = 5.86; p = 0.016) and AUD (χ2 = 4.39; p = 0.036) and were more likely to be non-adherent (t = 3.14; p = 0.002). In the CIA group, cognitive impairment (AOR = 2.86; 95% CI:1.77-4.64) (AOR = 2.79; 95%CI:1.73-4.48) and depression (AOR = 2.69; 95%CI:1.48-4.90 were associated with ART non-adherence. In the BIA group, depression (AOR = 2.55; 95%CI:1.27-5.16), AUD (AOR = 2.58; 95%CI:1.21-5.49) and struggling to accept status (AOR = 2.54; 95%CI:1.41-4.56) predicted non-adherence to treatment. CONCLUSION The two groups of adolescents differ regarding ART non-adherence and associated psychosocial issues, indicating the need for differentiated care to address non-adherence in the ALWHIV, especially in high-burden, resource-constrained settings, such as Botswana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A Olashore
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Bonginkosi Chiliza
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Saeeda Paruk
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Toska E, Zhou S, Chen-Charles J, Gittings L, Operario D, Cluver L. Factors Associated with Preferences for Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Therapy Among Adolescents and Young People Living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2163-2175. [PMID: 36622486 PMCID: PMC9827015 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Long-acting injectable anti-retroviral therapy (LAART) may overcome barriers to long-term adherence and improve the survival of adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYLHIV). Research on the acceptability of LAART for this age-group is limited. We asked 953 AYLHIV about their preferred (theoretical) ART mode of delivery (pill, injectable, or other) in 2017-2018, before LAART was available or known to AYLHIV in South Africa. One in eight (12%) AYLHIV preferred LAART over single or multiple pill regimens. In multivariate analyses, six factors were associated with LAART preference: medication stock-outs (aOR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.40-4.68, p = 0.002), experiencing side-effects (aOR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.15-2.97, p = 0.012), pill-burden (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.20-2.94, p = 0.006), past-year treatment changes (aOR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.06-2.51, p = 0.025), any HIV stigma (aOR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.39-3.53, p ≤ 0.001) and recent ART initiation (aOR = 2.02, 95% CI 1.09-3.74, p = 0.025). In marginal effects modelling, 66% of adolescents who experienced all factors were likely to prefer LAART, highlighting the potential high acceptability of LAART among adolescents and young people living with HIV struggling to adhere and have good HIV treatment outcomes. Adolescent boys who reported high ART pill burden were more likely to prefer LAART than their female peers in moderation analyses, suggesting that LAART may be particularly important to improve treatment outcomes among male AYLHIV as they become older. Adding LAART to existing treatment options for AYLHIV, particularly higher risk groups, would support AYLHIV to attain and sustain viral suppression-the third 95, and reduce their risk of AIDS-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Centre for Social Science Research, Leslie Social Sciences Building, University of Cape Town, 4.89, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa.
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenny Chen-Charles
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Lesley Gittings
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Don Operario
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, UK
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Daltro ACB, Almeida CS, Unfried AGC, de Aquino TR, Travassos AGÁ. Virological failure and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in adolescents and young adults living with human immunodeficiency virus. Trop Med Int Health 2023; 28:162-174. [PMID: 36647818 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection remains a major public health challenge. Infected young people at any age are less likely to adhere to care in a timely manner and to maintain a suppressed VL. This review aims to identify factors associated with virologic failure and adherence to drug therapy in adolescents and young adults (10-24 years) living with HIV. METHODS Systematic review using the PubMed and Virtual Health Library databases and including articles published between 2009 and 2021. Data were analysed in six categories: individual factors, pharmacological/therapy-related aspects, factors related to HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) infection, HIV/AIDS stigma, social support and health system/services. The study's protocol was registered on the PROSPERO platform (CRD42020167581). RESULTS A total of 19,819 articles were found in the initial search and 31 studies were included in this systematic review. Most studies were carried out on the African continent. Male sex, alcohol use, low education, adverse effects of medication, lack of social support, stigma related to HIV/AIDS, need for transportation to access the health service and forgetfulness were linked to poor adherence to therapy. Good adherence was achieved with sufficient nutrition, good social support, greater confidence in the use of therapy and fewer ART side effects. Low levels of CD4, alcohol use, substance abuse, low education, non-adherence to medication and forgetfulness were linked to virological failure. CONCLUSION Individual, social and structural factors constitute barriers to adherence to ART among adolescent and young adults. It is necessary to know the difficulties related to the use of therapy to work out specific strategies that create conditions to improve medication adherence and viral suppression, reducing the levels of virological failure in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carla Santos Almeida
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Medicine, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Talita Rocha de Aquino
- Department of Life Sciences, College of Medicine, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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Gittings L, Colvin C, Hodes R. Traditional and biomedical health practices of adolescent boys and young men living with perinatally-acquired HIV in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2205917. [PMID: 37156226 PMCID: PMC10660542 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2023.2205917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Men are less vulnerable to HIV acquisition than women, but have poorer HIV-related health outcomes. They access HIV services less, and are more likely to die on antiretroviral therapy. The adolescent epidemic presents further challenges, and AIDS-related illness is the leading cause of death among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. We explored the health practices of adolescent boys and young men (aged 13-22) living with perinatally-acquired HIV and the processes through which these practices are formed and sustained. We engaged health-focused life history narratives (n = 35), semi-structured interviews (n = 32) and analysis of health facility files (n = 41), alongside semi-structured interviews with traditional and biomedical health practitioners (n = 14) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Participants did not access traditional products and services for HIV, a finding that deviates from much of the literature. Findings suggest that health practices are mediated not only by gender and culture, but also childhood experiences of growing up deeply embedded in the biomedical health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gittings
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christopher Colvin
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rebecca Hodes
- Centre for Sexualities, AIDS & Gender, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Historical and Heritage Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Babatunde AO, Akin-Ajani OD, Abdullateef RO, Togunwa TO, Isah HO. Review of antiretroviral therapy coverage in 10 highest burden HIV countries in Africa: 2015-2020. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28320. [PMID: 36397202 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Africa is responsible for two-thirds of the global total of new HIV infections. South Africa, Nigeria, Mozambique, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Malawi, and Ethiopia were responsible for 80% of HIV cases in Africa in 2014 according to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). This study assesses antiretroviral coverage strategies implemented by these countries after the initiation of the "Fast-Track strategy to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030." Data reported in this review were obtained from different e-bibliographic including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Research Gate. Key terms were "Antiretroviral therapy," "Antiretroviral treatment," "HIV treatment," "HIV medication," "HIV/AIDS therapy," "HIV/AIDS treatment" + each of the countries listed earlier. We also extracted data on antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage from the UNAIDS database. About 50 papers published from 2015 to 2021 met the inclusion criteria. All 10 countries have experienced an increase in ART coverage from 2015 to 2020 with an average of 47.6% increment. Nigeria recorded the highest increase in the rate of ART coverage (72% increase) while Ethiopia had the least (30%). New strategies adopted to increase ART coverage and retention in most countries were community-based models and the use of mobile health technology rather than clinic-based. These strategies focus on promoting task shifting, door-to-door access to HIV services, and a long-term supply of antiretroviral medications. Most of these strategies are still in the piloting stage. However, some new strategies and frameworks have been adopted nationwide in countries like Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Malawi. Identified challenges include lack of funding, inadequate testing and surveillance services, poor digital penetration, and cultural/religious beliefs. The adoption of community-based and digital health strategies could have contributed to increased ART coverage and retention. African countries should facilitate nationwide scaling of ART coverage strategies to attain the 95-95-95 goal by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulhammed O Babatunde
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Healthy Africans Platform, Ibadan, Nigeria.,Federation of African Medical Students' Associations, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oluwawapelumi D Akin-Ajani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ridwanullah O Abdullateef
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Taofeeq O Togunwa
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Haroun O Isah
- Department of Community Medicine and Primary Health Care, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bingham University, Jos, Nigeria
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Van Heerden A, Humphries H, Geng E. Whole person HIV services: a social science approach. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2023; 18:46-51. [PMID: 36440805 PMCID: PMC9799045 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Globally, approximately 38.4 million people who are navigating complex lives, are also living with HIV, while HIV incident cases remain high. To improve the effectiveness of HIV prevention and treatment service implementation, we need to understand what drives human behaviour and decision-making around HIV service use. This review highlights current thinking in the social sciences, emphasizing how understanding human behaviour can be leveraged to improve HIV service delivery. RECENT FINDINGS The social sciences offer rich methodologies and theoretical frameworks for investigating how factors synergize to influence human behaviour and decision-making. Social-ecological models, such as the Behavioural Drivers Model (BDM), help us conceptualize and investigate the complexity of people's lives. Multistate and group-based trajectory modelling are useful tools for investigating the longitudinal nature of peoples HIV journeys. Successful HIV responses need to leverage social science approaches to design effective, efficient, and high-quality programmes. SUMMARY To improve our HIV response, implementation scientists, interventionists, and public health officials must respond to the context in which people make decisions about their health. Translating biomedical efficacy into real-world effectiveness is not simply finding a way around contextual barriers but rather engaging with the social context in which communities use HIV services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair Van Heerden
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
| | - Hilton Humphries
- Centre for Community Based Research, Human Sciences Research Council, Pietermaritzburg
- Department of Psychology, School of Applied Human Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Elvin Geng
- Centre for Dissemination and Implementation, Institute of Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Steinert JI, Shenderovich Y, Smith M, Zhou S, Toska E, Cluver L. Economic Well-being and Associated Mediating Pathways to Improved Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Adolescents Living With HIV: A Prospective Cohort Study in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:343-352. [PMID: 35969470 PMCID: PMC9592174 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV exhibit lower levels of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) than other age groups. Poverty is a key barrier to ART adherence. This study aims at understanding how alleviating poverty through structural and internal pathways can help increase ART adherence among adolescents. SETTING Eastern Cape province, South Africa. METHODS One thousand forty-six adolescents living with HIV were recruited from 53 public health care facilities and interviewed at 3 data collection waves with a retention rate of 89% and a mortality rate of 3%. Data were collected by face-to-face, device-assisted interviews. Hybrid probit regressions and a structural equation path analysis were used to estimate the association between poverty reduction (increased access to basic necessities) and the pathways by which it could improve ART adherence. RESULTS Self-reported ART adherence ranged from an average of 66% (n = 615) at baseline to 75% (n = 700) in the last wave. Within-person and between-person improvements in economic well-being were associated with significant increases in adolescent ART adherence. On average, adolescents with access to 3 additional basic needs experienced a 4 percentage-point increase in the probability of ART adherence. Structural pathways to improved ART adherence included participants having enough money to travel to the clinic and sufficient food to eat when taking medication. Internal pathways included improved psychological well-being and reduced internalized HIV stigma. CONCLUSION Poverty reduction programs such as HIV-sensitive social protection can address structural and psychological pathways to increase ART adherence among economically disadvantaged adolescents by incentivizing demand-side interventions and the provision of quality essential services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Isabel Steinert
- TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Smith
- United Nations World Food Programme, Nutrition Division, Rome, Italy
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine; and
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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Antelman G, Jahanpour O, Machalo T, Audi C, van de Ven R, Rutaihwa M, Lankiewicz E, Baird S. Adolescent support club attendance and self-efficacy associated with HIV treatment outcomes in Tanzania. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000065. [PMID: 36962483 PMCID: PMC10021176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
HIV treatment outcomes may be improved by ameliorating psychosocial challenges adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) face. This analysis describes participation in existing facility-based adolescent clubs and the associations between club attendance, adolescent well-being and HIV treatment outcomes. Data were collected through interviews with a sub-sample of adolescents age 10-19 years and medical record abstraction of all adolescents attending HIV services at seven clinics in Tanzania. Independent variables included adolescent club attendance, self-esteem, self-efficacy, mental distress, social capital and other health utilization or HIV experience characteristics. Study outcomes included visit adherence, viral suppression (<1000 cp/ml), and retention. Of 645 adolescents attending HIV services, 75% attended clubs at least once with a median of eight club sessions attended over a two-year period. Mental distress was prevalent, with 67% of the adolescents scoring above a recognized cut-off of ≥5. Adolescents who attended 10 or more clubs, compared to those not attending any clubs over a two-year period were at an almost three-fold increased odds of having good visit adherence (odds ratio [OR] 2.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25, 5.94). Club attendance was also associated with sustained retention in the following year: adolescents who attended some clubs (1-9) had three-times the odds of being retained (OR 3.01; 95%CI: 1.86, 4.87) while those who attended 10+ had over seven-times the odds (OR 7.29; 95%CI: 4.34, 12.22). Among the 154 adolescents who were interviewed, being in the top self-efficacy tertile was positively associated with viral suppression (OR 3.04, 95%CI: 1.08, 8.60) and retention (OR 4.44, 95%CI: 1.19, 17.40). Attending the HIV clinic with a guardian/treatment supporter (OR 3.29, 95%CI: 1.17, 9.22) was also associated with viral suppression. Self-efficacy, social capital and treatment support are associated with better health outcomes among adolescents. However, many ALHIV either never attended or did not regularly attend clubs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ola Jahanpour
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Thomas Machalo
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Cosette Audi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AID Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | | | | | - Elise Lankiewicz
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Sarah Baird
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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12
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Maskew M, Technau K, Davies MA, Vreeman R, Fox MP. Adolescent retention in HIV care within differentiated service-delivery models in sub-Saharan Africa. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e726-e734. [PMID: 36088915 PMCID: PMC9927242 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00137-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and young people living with HIV are at risk of disengaging from HIV care at all stages of the care cascade. Differentiated models of care offer simplified HIV-service delivery options in the hope of improving treatment outcomes, including retention on antiretroviral therapy. However, it remains unclear how successful and widespread these models are for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, where the burden of HIV is the greatest. Very few differentiated models of care specifically targeted to adolescents can be found and this priority group are currently ineligible from several models that exist. Where differentiated care has been made available to adolescents, data on the implementation and effectiveness of these interventions remain scarce. Despite this scarcity of evidence on the effectiveness of differentiated care among adolescent populations, several interventions, particularly community-based groups with peer navigators or supporters, might have potential to increase the reach, effectiveness, and adoption of differentiated care in adolescent HIV-care programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhairi Maskew
- Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
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13
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Mabizela S, Van Wyk B. Viral suppression among adolescents on HIV treatment in the Sedibeng District, Gauteng province. Curationis 2022; 45:e1-e8. [PMID: 36226955 PMCID: PMC9575385 DOI: 10.4102/curationis.v45i1.2312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progress has been made to increase access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) for adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) to improve their survival, but ALHIV still have worse treatment adherence and viral suppression compared to adults and children. Objective To determine the prevalence of viral suppression and the associated factors among adolescents aged 10–19 years on ART at an urban public primary healthcare facility in the Sedibeng district, Gauteng. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 192 adolescents who were on ART for at least six months between 2015 and 2018. A self-developed data extraction tool was used to collect data from the Tier.Net electronic database and clinical folders. Data were captured on Microsoft Excel, and descriptive and inferential analyses were performed using SPSS 27 statistical software. Results The median age at ART initiation of adolescents was 9.0 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.0–12.0), and the median duration on ART was 70.5 (IQR: 30.25–105.5) months. The prevalence of viral suppression (< 1000 copies/mL) among adolescents on ART was 74%, with 41% achieving full suppression (< 50 copies/mL). Those adolescents who reported optimal ART adherence were more likely to be virally suppressed compared to those who reported poor adherence (98.1% vs 25.0%; p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion Adolescent viral suppression of 74% is higher than in comparable sites, but still way too short of the UNAIDS target of 90%. We recommend adherence support for adolescents to achieve viral suppression. Contribution The study highlights the urgent need for targeted adherence support interventions for adolescents living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy to improve rates of viral suppression to meet UNAIDS target of 95%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibongile Mabizela
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville.
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Laurenzi CA, Melendez-Torres GJ, Page DT, Vogel LS, Kara T, Sam-Agudu NA, Willis N, Ameyan W, Toska E, Ross DA, Skeen S. How Do Psychosocial Interventions for Adolescents and Young People Living With HIV Improve Adherence and Viral Load? A Realist Review. J Adolesc Health 2022; 71:254-269. [PMID: 35606252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Psychosocial interventions have the potential to support adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) to achieve better HIV outcomes. However, more evidence is needed to understand which interventions are most effective, and the mechanisms driving how they work in practice. METHODS We used realist methodologies to generate statements based on evidence from intervention studies and linked evidence included in a systematic review of psychosocial interventions for AYPLHIV. Key data were extracted from available sources to generate cases, including context-mechanism-outcome pathways. Higher level themes were refined iteratively to create a mid-range theory of how these interventions may work. RESULTS From 26 resulting cases, 8 statements were crafted, grouped into 3 overarching categories, to describe how these interventions worked. Interventions were overall found to set off mechanisms to improve adherence when (1) responding to individual-level factors to support AYPLHIV (via incorporating agency and empowerment, personalized and/or contextualized approaches, and self-care skills); (2) tailoring delivery strategies to address specific needs (via diverse strategies, longer duration, and digital delivery); and (3) providing supportive resources (via peer and broader support, and structural support and integration into existing services). DISCUSSION A collection of diverse mechanisms may individually or collectively drive improved outcomes for AYPLHIV engaged in psychosocial interventions. Recommendations for integrating our findings into practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - G J Melendez-Torres
- Peninsula Technology Assessment Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel T Page
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Lodewyk Steyn Vogel
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tashmira Kara
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
| | - Nadia A Sam-Agudu
- Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria; Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David Anthony Ross
- Child Health Initiative of the FIA Foundation, Bad Herrenalb, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
| | - Sarah Skeen
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
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Zanoni B, Archary M, Sibaya T, Ramos T, Donenberg G, Shahmanesh M, Celum C, Pettifor A, Bekker LG, Haberer J. Interventions addressing the adolescent HIV continuum of care in South Africa: a systematic review and modified Delphi analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e057797. [PMID: 35487726 PMCID: PMC9058810 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Compared with adults, adolescents in South Africa have larger gaps at each step of the HIV continuum of care resulting in low levels of viral suppression. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and modified Delphi analysis of interventions addressing the HIV continuum of care for adolescents in South Africa. We searched PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar and online conference proceedings from the International AIDS Society, the International AIDS Conference, and the Conference on Retrovirology and Opportunistic Infections from 1 January 2010 to 30 September 2020. We then conducted a modified Delphi analysis with 29 researchers involved in the National Institutes of Health's Fogarty International-supported Adolescent HIV Implementation Science Alliance-South Africa to evaluate interventions for efficacy, feasibility and potential for scale-up. RESULTS We identified nine initial published articles containing interventions addressing the adolescent HIV continuum of care in South Africa, including five interventions focused on HIV diagnosis, two on antiretroviral therapy adherence and two on retention in care. No studies addressed linkage to care or transition from paediatric to adult care. Two studies discussed intervention costs. In-home and HIV self-testing, community-based adherence support, and provision of adolescent-friendly services were the most impactful and scalable interventions addressing the adolescent HIV continuum of care. CONCLUSION Future interventions should work comprehensively across the adolescent HIV continuum of care and be tailored to the specific needs of adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Zanoni
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Moherndran Archary
- Pediatric Infectious Disease, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Pediatrics, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa
| | - Thobekile Sibaya
- Pediatrics, University of KwaZulu-Natal Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Geri Donenberg
- Institute for Juvenile Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Maryam Shahmanesh
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Clinical Science, Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Connie Celum
- Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Epidemiology, University of North Carolina System, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Linda Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Center, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jessica Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Reif LK, Belizaire ME, Rouzier V, Seo G, Severe P, Joseph JM, Joseph B, Apollon S, Pape JW, McNairy ML, Elul B, Fitzgerald DW, Arpadi SM, Abrams EJ, Kuhn L. Point-of-care viral load testing among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Haiti: a randomized control trial. AIDS Care 2022; 34:409-420. [PMID: 34612092 PMCID: PMC8976702 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1981816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
HIV viral load (VL) monitoring can reinforce antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. Standard VL testing requires high laboratory capacity and coordination between clinic and laboratory which can delay results. A randomized trial comparing point-of-care (POC) VL testing to standard VL testing among 150 adolescents and young adults, ages 10-24 years, living with HIV in Haiti determined if POC VL testing could return faster results and improve ART adherence and viral suppression. Participants received a POC VL test with same-day result (POC arm) or a standard VL test with result given 1 month later (SOC arm). POC arm participants were more likely to receive a test result within 6 weeks than SOC arm participants (94.7% vs. 80.1%; p1000 copies/ml and low self-reported ART adherence was stronger in the POC arm (OR: 6.57; 95%CI: 2.12-25.21) than the SOC arm (OR: 2.62; 95%CI: 0.97-7.44) suggesting more accurate self-report in the POC arm. POC VL testing was effectively implemented in this low-resource setting with faster results and is a pragmatic intervention that may enable clinicians to identify those with high VL to provide enhanced counseling or regimen changes sooner.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03288246.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey K. Reif
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | - Vanessa Rouzier
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- GHESKIO Center, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Grace Seo
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Jean W. Pape
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- GHESKIO Center, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Margaret L. McNairy
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Daniel W. Fitzgerald
- Center for Global Health, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephen M. Arpadi
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, NY, USA
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Elaine J. Abrams
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Pediatrics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Louise Kuhn
- Gertrude H. Sergievsky Center, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
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van Staden Q, Laurenzi CA, Toska E. Two years after lockdown: reviewing the effects of COVID-19 on health services and support for adolescents living with HIV in South Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e25904. [PMID: 35475319 PMCID: PMC9042673 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION South Africa's progress towards the 95-95-95 goals has been significantly slower among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV), among whom antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, retention in care and viral suppression remain a concern. After 2 years of living with COVID-19, it is important to examine the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on healthcare resources, access to HIV services and availability of support structures, to assess their impact on HIV care for ALHIV. DISCUSSION The COVID-19 response in South Africa has shifted healthcare resources towards combatting COVID-19, affecting the quality and availability of HIV services-especially for vulnerable populations, such as ALHIV. The healthcare system's response to COVID-19 has threatened to diminish fragile gains in engaging ALHIV with HIV services, especially as this group relies on overburdened public health facilities for their HIV care. Reallocation of limited health resources utilized by ALHIV disrupted healthcare workers' capacity to form and maintain therapeutic relationships with ALHIV and monitor ALHIV for ART-related side effects, treatment difficulties and mental health conditions, affecting their ability to retain ALHIV in HIV care. Prevailing declines in HIV surveillance meant missed opportunities to identify and manage opportunistic infections and HIV disease progression in adolescents. "Lockdown" restrictions have limited access to healthcare facilities and healthcare workers for ALHIV by reducing clinic appointments and limiting individual movement. ALHIV have had restricted access to social, psychological and educational support structures, including national feeding schemes. This limited access, coupled with reduced opportunities for routine maternal and sexual and reproductive health services, may place adolescent girls at greater risk of transactional sex, child marriages, unintended pregnancy and mother-to-child HIV transmission. CONCLUSIONS Adolescent HIV care in South Africa is often overlooked; however, ART adherence among ALHIV in South Africa is particularly susceptible to the consequences of a world transformed by COVID-19. The current structures in place to support HIV testing, ART initiation and adherence have been reshaped by disruptions to health structures, new barriers to access health services and the limited available education and psychosocial support systems. Reflecting on these limitations can drive considerations for minimizing these barriers and retaining ALHIV in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quintin van Staden
- Department of SociologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Universitas HospitalBloemfonteinSouth Africa
| | - Christina A. Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health ResearchDepartment of Global HealthFaculty of Medicine and Health SciencesStellenbosch UniversityTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of SociologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Centre for Social Science ResearchUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Social Policy and InterventionUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Pega F, Pabayo R, Benny C, Lee EY, Lhachimi SK, Liu SY. Unconditional cash transfers for reducing poverty and vulnerabilities: effect on use of health services and health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 3:CD011135. [PMID: 35348196 PMCID: PMC8962215 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011135.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unconditional cash transfers (UCTs; provided without obligation) for reducing poverty and vulnerabilities (e.g. orphanhood, old age, or HIV infection) are a social protection intervention addressing a key social determinant of health (income) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The relative effectiveness of UCTs compared with conditional cash transfers (CCTs; provided only if recipients follow prescribed behaviours, e.g. use a health service or attend school) is unknown. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of UCTs on health services use and health outcomes in children and adults in LMICs. Secondary objectives are to assess the effects of UCTs on social determinants of health and healthcare expenditure, and to compare the effects of UCTs versus CCTs. SEARCH METHODS For this update, we searched 15 electronic academic databases, including CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EconLit, in September 2021. We also searched four electronic grey literature databases, websites of key organisations and reference lists of previous systematic reviews, key journals and included study records. SELECTION CRITERIA We included both parallel-group and cluster-randomised controlled trials (C-RCTs), quasi-RCTs, cohort studies, controlled before-and-after studies (CBAs), and interrupted time series studies of UCT interventions in children (0 to 17 years) and adults (≥ 18 years) in LMICs. Comparison groups received either no UCT, a smaller UCT or a CCT. Our primary outcomes were any health services use or health outcome. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened potentially relevant records for inclusion, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. We obtained missing data from study authors if feasible. For C-RCTs, we generally calculated risk ratios for dichotomous outcomes from crude frequency measures in approximately correct analyses. Meta-analyses applied the inverse variance or Mantel-Haenszel method using a random-effects model. Where meta-analysis was impossible, we synthesised results using vote counting based on effect direction. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS We included 34 studies (25 studies of 20 C-RCTs, six CBAs, and three cohort studies) involving 1,140,385 participants (45,538 children, 1,094,847 adults) and 50,095 households in Africa, the Americas and South-East Asia in our meta-analyses and narrative syntheses. These analysed 29 independent data sets. The 24 UCTs identified, including one basic universal income intervention, were pilot or established government programmes or research experiments. The cash value was equivalent to 1.3% to 81.9% of the annualised gross domestic product per capita. All studies compared a UCT with no UCT; three studies also compared a UCT with a CCT. Most studies carried an overall high risk of bias (i.e. often selection or performance bias, or both). Most studies were funded by national governments or international organisations, or both. Throughout the review, we use the words 'probably' to indicate moderate-certainty evidence, 'may/maybe' for low-certainty evidence, and 'uncertain' for very low-certainty evidence. Health services use We assumed greater use of any health services to be beneficial. UCTs may not have impacted the likelihood of having used any health service in the previous 1 to 12 months, when participants were followed up between 12 and 24 months into the intervention (risk ratio (RR) 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00 to 1.09; I2 = 2%; 5 C-RCTs, 4972 participants; low-certainty evidence). Health outcomes At one to two years, UCTs probably led to a clinically meaningful, very large reduction in the likelihood of having had any illness in the previous two weeks to three months (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.92; I2 = 53%; 6 C-RCTs, 9367 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). UCTs may have increased the likelihood of having been food secure over the previous month, at 13 to 36 months into the intervention (RR 1.25, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.45; I2 = 85%; 5 C-RCTs, 2687 participants; low-certainty evidence). UCTs may have increased participants' level of dietary diversity over the previous week, when assessed with the Household Dietary Diversity Score and followed up 24 months into the intervention (mean difference (MD) 0.59 food categories, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.01; I2 = 79%; 4 C-RCTs, 9347 participants; low-certainty evidence). Despite several studies providing relevant evidence, the effects of UCTs on the likelihood of being moderately stunted and on the level of depression remain uncertain. We found no study on the effect of UCTs on mortality risk. Social determinants of health UCTs probably led to a clinically meaningful, moderate increase in the likelihood of currently attending school, when assessed at 12 to 24 months into the intervention (RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.09; I2 = 0%; 8 C-RCTs, 7136 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). UCTs may have reduced the likelihood of households being extremely poor, at 12 to 36 months into the intervention (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.97; I2 = 63%; 6 C-RCTs, 3805 participants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence was uncertain for whether UCTs impacted livestock ownership, participation in labour, and parenting quality. Healthcare expenditure Evidence from eight cluster-RCTs on healthcare expenditure was too inconsistent to be combined in a meta-analysis, but it suggested that UCTs may have increased the amount of money spent on health care at 7 to 36 months into the intervention (low-certainty evidence). Equity, harms and comparison with CCTs The effects of UCTs on health equity (or unfair and remedial health inequalities) were very uncertain. We did not identify any harms from UCTs. Three cluster-RCTs compared UCTs versus CCTs with regard to the likelihood of having used any health services or had any illness, or the level of dietary diversity, but evidence was limited to one study per outcome and was very uncertain for all three. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This body of evidence suggests that unconditional cash transfers (UCTs) may not impact a summary measure of health service use in children and adults in LMICs. However, UCTs probably or may improve some health outcomes (i.e. the likelihood of having had any illness, the likelihood of having been food secure, and the level of dietary diversity), two social determinants of health (i.e. the likelihoods of attending school and being extremely poor), and healthcare expenditure. The evidence on the relative effectiveness of UCTs and CCTs remains very uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Pega
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Roman Pabayo
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Claire Benny
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Eun-Young Lee
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Stefan K Lhachimi
- Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology, Bremen, Germany
| | - Sze Yan Liu
- Public Health, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
- Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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Toska E, Zhou S, Laurenzi CA, Haghighat R, Saal W, Gulaid L, Cluver L. Predictors of secondary HIV transmission risk in a cohort of adolescents living with HIV in South Africa. AIDS 2022; 36:267-276. [PMID: 34342294 PMCID: PMC8702447 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preventing secondary HIV transmission from adolescents and young people living with HIV (AYPLHIV) to their partners and children is critical to interrupting the HIV infection cycle in sub-Saharan Africa. We investigated predictors of secondary HIV transmission risk (past-year sexual risk combined with past-year viremia) among AYPLHIV in South Africa. DESIGN A prospective cohort of AYLPHIV in South Africa recruited n = 1046 participants in 2014-2015, 93.6% of whom were followed up in 2016-2017 (1.5% mortality). Questionnaires used validated scales where available and biomarkers were extracted from n = 67 health facilities. METHODS Multivariate logistic regressions tested baseline factors associated with secondary HIV transmission risk, controlling for covariates, with marginal effect modelling combinations. RESULTS About 14.2% of AYPLHIV reported high secondary HIV transmission risk. High-risk AYPLHIV were more likely to be sexually infected [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.79, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.66-4.68, P < 0.001], and report hunger (aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.18-3.14, P = 0.008) and substance use (aOR 2.19, 95% CI 1.19-4.02, P = 0.012). They were more likely to be in power-inequitable relationships (aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.08-2.92, P = 0.025) and be parents (aOR 4.30, 95% CI 2.16-8.57, P < 0.001). Adolescents reporting none of these factors had a 4% probability of secondary transmission risk, rising to 89% probability with all five identified factors. Older age and early sexual debut were also strongly associated with a higher risk of secondary HIV transmission. CONCLUSION It is essential to identify and support AYPLHIV at a high risk of secondary transmission. Screening for factors such as mode of infection and parenthood during routine healthcare visits could help identify and provide resources to the most at-risk adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Christina A. Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University
| | - Roxanna Haghighat
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - 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
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20
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Mathur S, Heck CJ, Kishor Patel S, Okal J, Chipeta E, Mwapasa V, Chimwaza W, Musheke M, Mahapatra B, Pulerwitz J, Pilgrim N. Temporal shifts in HIV-related risk factors among cohorts of adolescent girls and young women enrolled in DREAMS programming: evidence from Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e047843. [PMID: 35105561 PMCID: PMC8808410 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess temporal shifts in HIV risk factors among adolescent girls (AG, aged 15-19 years) and young women (YW, aged 20-24 years) in Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. DESIGN Prospective cohorts with two time points (Kenya: 2016/2017, 2018; Malawi: 2017, 2018; Zambia: 2016/2017, 2018) SETTING: Community-based programming. PARTICIPANTS 1247 AG (Kenya: 389, Malawi: 371, Zambia: 487) and 1628 YW (Kenya: 347, Malawi: 883, Zambia: 398) INTERVENTION: Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe (DREAMS), a multisectoral approach to reduce AGYW's HIV vulnerability by delivering a package of tailored, multilayered activities and services.Primary and secondary outcome measures: HIV testing, sexually transmitted infection (STI) symptom experience, number of sexual partners, condom use (consistently, at last sex), transactional sex, experience of physical violence (from intimate partners) and sexual violence (from intimate partners and strangers/non-partners). RESULTS Changes in HIV-related risk behaviours among DREAMS participants varied by age group and country. Among AG, HIV testing increased (Kenya and Zambia) and sexual violence from partners (in Kenya and Malawi) and non-partners (in Malawi) decreased. Among YW, HIV testing increased and STI experience decreased in Malawi; consistent condom use decreased in Kenya; transactional sex increased in Kenya and Zambia; and physical violence (in Malawi) and sexual violence from partners (in Kenya and Malawi) and non-partners (all three countries) decreased over time. CONCLUSIONS Improvements in HIV testing and reductions in experiences of sexual violence were coupled with variable shifts in HIV-related risk behaviours among DREAMS participants in Kenya, Malawi and Zambia. Additional consideration of AGYW's risk circumstances during key life transitions may be needed to address the risk heterogeneity among AG and YW across different contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jerry Okal
- Population Council Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Effie Chipeta
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Victor Mwapasa
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
| | - Wanangwa Chimwaza
- Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Southern Region, Malawi
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21
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Kose J, Tiam A, Siamba S, Lenz C, Okoth E, Wolters T, van de Vijver D, Rakhmanina N. Clinical outcomes among adolescents living with HIV in Kenya following initiation on antiretroviral treatment. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000094. [PMID: 36962291 PMCID: PMC10022018 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In Kenya, HIV/AIDS remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). Our study evaluated associations between demographic and healthcare factors and HIV treatment outcomes among ALHIV in care in Kenya. This retrospective cohort study evaluated the clinical outcomes of newly diagnosed ALHIV enrolled in HIV care during January 2017-June 2018 at 32 healthcare facilities in Homabay and Kakamega Counties. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from patient clinical records and registers during the follow up study period January 2017-through May 2019. ALHIV were stratified by age (10-14 versus 15-19 years). Categorical variables were summarized using descriptive statistics; continuous variables were analyzed using mean values. The latest available treatment and virological outcomes for ALHIV were assessed. 330 ALHIV were included in the study (mean age 15.9 years; 81.8% female, 63.0% receiving HIV care at lower-level healthcare facilities). Most (93.2%) were initiated on ART within 14 days of diagnosis; 91.4% initiated EFV-based regimens. Of those on ART, only 44.6% were active on care at the end of the study period. Of those eligible for viral load testing, 83.9% were tested with 84.4% viral suppression rate. Retention in care was higher at higher-level facilities (67.5%) compared to lower-level facilities (28.6%). Factors associated with higher retention in care were school attendance (aRR = 1.453), receipt of disclosure support (aRR = 13.315), and receiving care at a high-level health facility (aRR = 0.751). Factors associated with viral suppression included older age (15-19 years) (aRR = 1.249) and pre-ART clinical WHO stage I/II (RR = .668). Viral suppression was higher among older ALHIV. Studies are needed to evaluate effective interventions to improve outcomes among ALHIV in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Kose
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- ErasmusMC, Department of Viroscience, Rotterdam University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Appolinaire Tiam
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- University of Bergen, Centre for International Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stephen Siamba
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Cosima Lenz
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | | | - Theresa Wolters
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - David van de Vijver
- ErasmusMC, Department of Viroscience, Rotterdam University, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Natella Rakhmanina
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Medical and Scientific Affairs, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, The George Washington University, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States of America
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22
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Ngayo MO, Oluka M, Bulimo WD, Okalebo FA. Association between social psychological status and efavirenz and nevirapine plasma concentration among HIV patients in Kenya. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22071. [PMID: 34764325 PMCID: PMC8585942 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01345-9] [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] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-related stigma, lack of disclosure and social support are still hindrances to HIV testing, care, and prevention. We assessed the association of these social-psychological statuses with nevirapine (NVP) and efavirenz (EFV) plasma concentrations among HIV patients in Kenya. Blood samples were obtained from 254 and 312 consenting HIV patients on NVP- and EFV-based first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART), respectively, and a detailed structured questionnaire was administered. The ARV plasma concentration was measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). There were 68.1% and 65.4% of the patients on NVP and EFV, respectively, who did not feel guilty for being HIV positive. The disclosure rates were approximately 96.1% and 94.6% of patients on NVP and EFV, respectively. Approximately 85% and 78.2% of patients on NVP and EFV, respectively, received social support as much as needed. There were 54.3% and 14.2% compared to 31.7% and 4.5% patients on NVP and EFV, respectively, with supratherapeutic and suboptimal plasma concentrations. Multivariate quantile regression analysis showed that feeling guilty for being HIV positive was associated with increased 954 ng/mL NVP plasma concentrations (95% CI 192.7 to 2156.6; p = 0.014) but not associated with EFV plasma concentrations (adjusted β = 347.7, 95% CI = - 153.4 to 848.7; p = 0.173). Feeling worthless for being HIV positive was associated with increased NVP plasma concentrations (adjusted β = 852, 95% CI = 64.3 to 1639.7; p = 0.034) and not with EFV plasma concentrations (adjusted β = - 143.3, 95% CI = - 759.2 to 472.5; p = 0.647). Being certain of telling the primary sexual partner about HIV-positive status was associated with increased EFV plasma concentrations (adjusted β 363, 95% CI, 97.9 to 628.1; p = 0.007) but not with NVP plasma concentrations (adjusted β = 341.5, 95% CI = - 1357 to 2040; p = 0.692). Disclosing HIV status to neighbors was associated with increased NVP plasma concentrations (adjusted β = 1731, 95% CI = 376 to 3086; p = 0.012) but not with EFV plasma concentrations (adjusted β = - 251, 95% CI = - 1714.1 to 1212.1; p = 0.736). Obtaining transportation to the hospital whenever needed was associated with a reduction in NVP plasma concentrations (adjusted β = - 1143.3, 95% CI = - 1914.3 to - 372.4; p = 0.004) but not with EFV plasma concentrations (adjusted β = - 6.6, 95% CI = - 377.8 to 364.7; p = 0.972). HIV stigma, lack disclosure and inadequate social support are still experienced by HIV-infected patients in Kenya. A significant proportion of patients receiving the NVP-based regimen had supra- and subtherapeutic plasma concentrations compared to EFV. Social-psychological factors negatively impact adherence and are associated with increased NVP plasma concentration compared to EFV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musa Otieno Ngayo
- Centre of Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Complex off Ngong Road Box, Nairobi, 19464-00202, Kenya. .,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Margaret Oluka
- grid.10604.330000 0001 2019 0495Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wallace Dimbuson Bulimo
- grid.10604.330000 0001 2019 0495Department of Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Faith Apolot Okalebo
- grid.10604.330000 0001 2019 0495Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
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23
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Natukunda HPM, Mubiri P, Cluver LD, Ddumba-Nyanzi I, Bukenya B, Walakira EJ. Which Factors Are Associated With Adolescent Reports of Experiencing Various Forms of Abuse at the Family Level in Post-Conflict Northern Uganda? JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2021; 36:NP12067-NP12096. [PMID: 31789094 DOI: 10.1177/0886260519888526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Research assessing familial violence against adolescents, using caregiver-adolescent dyads, is limited in post-conflict settings. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with adolescent-reported familial abuse in post-conflict northern Uganda. It also assessed the relationship between abuse subtypes and (a) beliefs supporting aggression and (b) adolescent well-being and life satisfaction. A randomly selected community-based sample of 10- to 17-year-old adolescents (54% girls) and their caregivers (N = 427 dyads) in two northern Uganda districts was used. Abuse outcomes were adolescent reported. All measures used standardized tools that have been adapted for research in resource-limited settings. Analyses used multivariable linear regressions in Stata 14/IC. Overall, physical, emotional, and sexual abuse rates were 70% (confidence interval [CI] = [65.7, 74.4]), 72% (CI = [67.4, 76.0]), and 18.0% (CI = [14.0, 21.2]), respectively. Polyvictimization was 61% (CI = [55.4, 64.7]). There were no gender differences regarding adolescent reports of physical and emotional abuse, but adolescent girls were more likely to report sexual abuse and polyvictimization than adolescent boys. All forms of adolescent-reported abuse (except sexual abuse) were associated with caregiver reports of harsh disciplinary practices. In addition, emotional abuse was associated with physical and sexual abuse. Physical abuse was associated with being an orphan and emotional abuse. Sexual abuse was associated with being a girl, older adolescent age, living in a larger household, and emotional abuse. Polyvictimization was positively associated with being an orphan, younger caregiver age, caregiver-reported poor monitoring and supervision, and higher household socioeconomic status, but negatively associated with lower parental role satisfaction. Physical and emotional (but not sexual) abuse and polyvictimization were associated with beliefs supporting aggression among adolescents. All abuse subtypes were associated with lower levels of perceived well-being and life satisfaction among adolescents in this study. Child abuse prevention programs have the potential to improve adolescent-caregiver interaction and interrupt the violence transmission cycle in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen P M Natukunda
- Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- MRC Harwell Institute, UK Research and Innovation, Oxfordshire, UK
- University of Oxford, UK
| | | | - Lucie D Cluver
- University of Oxford, UK
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
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24
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Rencken CA, Harrison AD, Mtukushe B, Bergam S, Pather A, Sher R, Davidson BJ, Carrihill M, Matiwane M, Kuo C, Galárraga O, Hoare J. "Those People Motivate and Inspire Me to Take My Treatment." Peer Support for Adolescents Living With HIV in Cape Town, South Africa. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2021; 20:23259582211000525. [PMID: 33691500 PMCID: PMC8743913 DOI: 10.1177/23259582211000525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and psychosocial support to manage stigma and disclosure is essential for adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). Peer support groups can help ALHIV and their families live successfully with HIV. This qualitative study aimed to examine adolescent and caregiver perspectives on peer support groups. Three themes emerged: (1) peer support encouraged adherence to ART, (2) serostatus disclosure outside the family was perceived as difficult, and (3) the peer support group fostered fundamental and meaningful peer relationships for ALHIV. Caregivers felt peer support groups increased self-acceptance and adherence for ALHIV across 3 domains: (1) as motivation for families and adolescents, (2) to increase adolescent independence and maturity, and (3) to help adolescents accept their HIV status and live successfully with HIV. These data highlight the importance of psychosocial support groups for ALHIV and caregivers, illustrating the benefits of a safe space with trusted relationships and open communication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abigail D Harrison
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Bulelwa Mtukushe
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Scarlett Bergam
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Ariana Pather
- Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Rebecca Sher
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Michelle Carrihill
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mluleki Matiwane
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline Kuo
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jacqueline Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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25
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Enane LA, Apondi E, Omollo M, Toromo JJ, Bakari S, Aluoch J, Morris C, Kantor R, Braitstein P, Fortenberry JD, Nyandiko WM, Wools‐Kaloustian K, Elul B, Vreeman RC. "I just keep quiet about it and act as if everything is alright" - The cascade from trauma to disengagement among adolescents living with HIV in western Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25695. [PMID: 33838007 PMCID: PMC8035676 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There are approximately 1.7 million adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV, ages 10 to 19) globally, including 110,000 in Kenya. While ALHIV experience poor retention in care, limited data exist on factors underlying disengagement. We investigated the burden of trauma among disengaged ALHIV in western Kenya, and its potential role in HIV care disengagement. METHODS We performed in-depth qualitative interviews with ALHIV who had disengaged from care at two sites, their caregivers and healthcare workers (HCW) at 10 sites, from 2018 to 2020. Disengagement was defined as not attending clinic ≥60 days past a missed scheduled visit. ALHIV and their caregivers were traced through phone calls and home visits. Interviews ascertained barriers and facilitators to adolescent retention in HIV care. Dedicated questions elicited narratives surrounding traumatic experiences, and the ways in which these did or did not impact retention in care. Through thematic analysis, a conceptual model emerged for a cascade from adolescent experience of trauma to disengagement from HIV care. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 42 disengaged ALHIV, 34 caregivers and 28 HCW. ALHIV experienced a high burden of trauma from a range of stressors, including experiences at HIV disclosure or diagnosis, the loss of parents, enacted stigma and physical or sexual violence. A confluence of factors - trauma, stigma and isolation, and lack of social support - led to hopelessness and depression. These factors compounded each other, and resulted in complex mental health burdens, poor antiretroviral adherence and care disengagement. HCW approaches aligned with the factors in this model, suggesting that these areas represent targets for intervention and provision of trauma-informed care. CONCLUSIONS Trauma is a major factor underlying disengagement from HIV care among Kenyan adolescents. We describe a cascade of factors representing areas for intervention to support mental health and retention in HIV care. These include not only the provision of mental healthcare, but also preventing or addressing violence, trauma and stigma, and reinforcing social and familial support surrounding vulnerable adolescents. In this conceptualization, supporting retention in HIV care requires a trauma-informed approach, both in the individualized care of ALHIV and in the development of strategies and policies to support adolescent health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie A Enane
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global HealthDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Moi Teaching and Referral HospitalEldoretKenya
| | - Mark Omollo
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Judith J Toromo
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global HealthDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Salim Bakari
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Josephine Aluoch
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
| | - Clemette Morris
- Indiana University‐Purdue University‐IndianapolisIndiana UniversityIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineBrown University Apert Medical SchoolProvidenceRIUSA
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Department of EpidemiologyIndiana University Fairbanks School of Public HealthIndianapolisINUSA
- Dalla Lana School of Public HealthDivision of EpidemiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoONCanada
- Department of MedicineCollege of Health SciencesSchool of MedicineMoi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - J Dennis Fortenberry
- Division of Adolescent MedicineDepartment of PediatricsIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Winstone M Nyandiko
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Department of Child Health and PediatricsCollege of Health SciencesSchool of MedicineMoi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - Kara Wools‐Kaloustian
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of EpidemiologyMailman School of Public HealthColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Rachel C Vreeman
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)EldoretKenya
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisINUSA
- Department of Health System Design and Global HealthIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNYUSA
- Arnhold Institute for Global HealthNew YorkNYUSA
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26
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Haghighat R, Toska E, Bungane N, Cluver L. The HIV care cascade for adolescents initiated on antiretroviral therapy in a health district of South Africa: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:60. [PMID: 33435861 PMCID: PMC7805141 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05742-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little evidence exists to comprehensively estimate adolescent viral suppression after initiation on antiretroviral therapy in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines adolescent progression along the HIV care cascade to viral suppression for adolescents initiated on antiretroviral therapy in South Africa. METHODS All adolescents ever initiated on antiretroviral therapy (n=1080) by 2015 in a health district of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, were interviewed in 2014-2015. Clinical records were extracted from 52 healthcare facilities through January 2018 (including records in multiple facilities). Mortality and loss to follow-up rates were corrected for transfers. Predictors of progression through the HIV care cascade were tested using sequential multivariable logistic regressions. Predicted probabilities for the effects of significant predictors were estimated by sex and mode of infection. RESULTS Corrected mortality and loss to follow-up rates were 3.3 and 16.9%, respectively. Among adolescents with clinical records, 92.3% had ≥1 viral load, but only 51.1% of viral loads were from the past 12 months. Adolescents on ART for ≥2 years (AOR 3.42 [95%CI 2.14-5.47], p< 0.001) and who experienced decentralised care (AOR 1.39 [95%CI 1.06-1.83], p=0.018) were more likely to have a recent viral load. The average effect of decentralised care on recent viral load was greater for female (AOR 2.39 [95%CI 1.29-4.43], p=0.006) and sexually infected adolescents (AOR 3.48 [95%CI 1.04-11.65], p=0.043). Of the total cohort, 47.5% were recorded as fully virally suppressed at most recent test. Only 23.2% were recorded as fully virally suppressed within the past 12 months. Younger adolescents (AOR 1.39 [95%CI 1.06-1.82], p=0.017) and those on ART for ≥2 years (AOR 1.70 [95%CI 1.12-2.58], p=0.013) were more likely to be fully viral suppressed. CONCLUSIONS Viral load recording and viral suppression rates remain low for ART-initiated adolescents in South Africa. Improved outcomes for this population require stronger engagement in care and viral load monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanna Haghighat
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 3DW, UK.
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nontuthuzelo Bungane
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 3DW, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Nardell MF, Lee YS, Rousseau E, Julies R, Klaas P, Vundhla P, Butler L, Bassett IV, Mellins CA, Bekker LG, Katz IT. "You are not alone": a qualitative study to explore barriers to ART initiation and implications for a proposed community-based youth treatment club among young adults newly diagnosed with HIV in South Africa. AIDS Care 2020; 33:952-961. [PMID: 33345593 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1861179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In South Africa, despite universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) availability, 60% of persons living with HIV (PLWH) ages 15-24 are not on treatment. This qualitative study aimed to identify barriers to ART initiation and the implications for a proposed community-based Youth Treatment Club to improve ART initiation for young PLWH in limited-resource, high HIV-prevalence communities in Cape Town, South Africa. Recruiting participants at community testing sites from 2018 to 2019, we conducted semi-structured interviews, informed by Social Action Theory (SAT), with 20 young adults, ages 18- to 24-years-old, newly diagnosed with HIV, along with 10 healthcare providers. Through systematic qualitative analysis, we found that young PLWH face barriers to treatment initiation in three SAT domains: (1) stigmatizing social norms (social regulation processes); (2) challenges coping with a new diagnosis (self-regulation processes); and (3) anticipated stigma in the clinic environment (contextual factors). Participants shared that a proposed community-based Youth Treatment Club for newly diagnosed youth would be an acceptable strategy to promote ART initiation. They emphasized that it should include supportive peers, trained facilitator support for counseling and education, and a youth-friendly environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Nardell
- Connors Center for Women's Health and Gender Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yeonsoo Sara Lee
- Division of Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elzette Rousseau
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Robin Julies
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Portia Klaas
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Prisca Vundhla
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
| | - Lisa Butler
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Claude A Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Republic of South Africa.,Governing Council, International AIDS Society, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Global Health Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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28
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Sherr L, Roberts KJ, Mebrahtu H, Tomlinson M, Skeen S, Cluver LD. The food of life: an evaluation of the impact of cash grant receipt and good parenting on child nutrition outcomes in South Africa and Malawi. Glob Health Promot 2020; 27:131-140. [PMID: 32993452 PMCID: PMC7750666 DOI: 10.1177/1757975920957598] [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: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Social protection interventions (inclusive of cash grant receipt and care
provision) have been found to be effective in response to some of the negative
implications of the HIV epidemic on children and families. This study explores
the impact of cash grant receipt and care provision (operationalised as good
parenting) on child nutritional outcomes. In this cross-sectional study, 854
children and younger adolescents (5–15 years) and caregivers affected by HIV,
attending community-based organisations in South Africa and Malawi, were
interviewed. Interviews comprised inventories on socio-demographic information,
family data, cash grant receipt and child nutrition. Parenting was measured
using a composite scale. Logistic regression and marginal effects analyses were
used to explore the associations between differing levels of social protection
(none; either cash or good parenting; cash and good parenting) and child
nutritional outcomes. One hundred and sixty children (20.3%) received neither
cash nor good parenting; 501 (63.5%) received either cash or good parenting and
128 (16.2%) received both cash and good parenting. In comparison to no
intervention, receipt of either cash or good parenting was significantly
associated with child non-stunting, the child having sufficient food, and the
child not looking thin. Three (3/7) nutritional outcomes showed increased
improvement amongst children receiving both cash and good parenting care
including child-reported non-hunger, child non-stunting and parental report of
sufficient food. Marginal effects analyses further identified an additive effect
of cash and good parenting on child nutritional outcomes. This study indicates
that receipt of combined cash and good parenting, when compared to cash grant
receipt alone, has positive effects on nutrition-related child outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Sherr
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Helen Mebrahtu
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University, Belfast, UK
| | - Sarah Skeen
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Lucie D Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Broström S, Andersson A, Hallström IK, Jerene D. Transitioning from child to adult-oriented HIV clinical care for adolescents living with HIV in Ethiopia: results from a retrospective cohort study. Pan Afr Med J 2020; 37:13. [PMID: 33062116 PMCID: PMC7532856 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2020.37.13.21407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ethiopia has one of the largest number of adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV). As these adolescents reach adulthood they need to transfer from pediatric to adult-oriented clinics. Clear implementation guidelines for transition are lacking and factors associated with successful transition are inadequately investigated. Our objective was to describe the rate and age of transition from child- to adult-oriented care and the factors associated with transition success among ALHIV in selected health facilities in Ethiopia. METHODS a retrospective cohort study of adolescents was conducted in eight health facilities in two regions of Ethiopia: Addis Ababa and the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples´ Region (SNNPR). The study was embedded within a broader study originally aimed at studying clinical outcomes of adolescents. The proportion of adolescents who transitioned was calculated and the association between baseline characteristics and transition was assessed by bivariate and multivariate analysis. RESULTS of 1072 adolescents, 8.7% transitioned to adult care. The most frequent age of transition was 15 (range: 10-22). Multivariate analysis generated two significant findings: adolescents from Addis Ababa were more to likely transitioned than adolescents from SNNPR (aOR: 2.18; 95% CI=1.17-4.06; p<0.01), as well as disclosed adolescents compared to those not disclosed of their HIV-status (aOR: 4.19; 95% CI=1.57-11.98; p<0.01). CONCLUSION transition occurred in less than 10% of participants, in a wide range of age, indicating a lack of implementation policies regarding the transition process. Thereto, we found that adolescents from Addis Ababa and those disclosed of their disease, were more likely to transition. Further studies are needed to better understand factors associated with transition success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander Broström
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Axel Andersson
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Degu Jerene
- KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, The Hague, Netherlands
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COVID-19-Compliant Strategies for Supporting Treatment Adherence Among People Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2473-2476. [PMID: 32333204 PMCID: PMC7180655 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02888-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Alcon S, Ahmed B, Sloane D, Lim YS, Cervia JS. Interventions to improve medication adherence in adolescents with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Investig Med 2020; 68:1217-1222. [DOI: 10.1136/jim-2020-001295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
As of 2017, 1.8 million people living with HIV (PLWH) were adolescents between ages 10 and 19, accounting for 5% of all PLWH and 590,000 people between the ages 15 and 24 were newly infected with HIV. Between 2004 and 2011, AIDS-related deaths increased 50% among adolescents, and optimal adolescent adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) is estimated at only 62% of adolescents worldwide. While there have been great strides toward achieving the UNAIDS 90-90-90 goals, adolescents remain a group lacking appropriate resources and research to achieve these. This review analyzes current interventions aimed toward increasing adolescent ART adherence. Systematic searches of EMBASE, PubMed and PsycINFO were performed using the keywords ‘adolescent HIV medication adherence interventions’. The Gain Score effect size was calculated for studies reporting the Cohen’s d and variance to include both prestudy and poststudy values. A random-effects model analyzed intervention significance. Authors were contacted to obtain additional data values and study clarification. Twelve studies met inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. There were no significant differences seen between control and intervention groups in medication adherence (z=−1.4714, p<0.1412), viral load (z=−0.1946, p<0.8547) or CD4+ lymphocyte count (z=0.2650, p<0.7910). There was no significant difference between studies in increasing medication adherence. Results indicate that interventions did not improve medication adherence in adolescents with HIV. However, the paucity of quantitative research available speaks to a need for more quantitative intervention studies and standardization of measures of intervention efficacy.
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Tuke R, Sikorskii A, Zalwango SK, Webster KD, Ismail A, Pobee RA, Barkin JL, Boivin MJ, Giordani B, Ezeamama AE. Psychosocial Adjustment in Ugandan Children: Coping With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Exposure, Lifetime Adversity, and Importance of Social Support. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev 2020; 2020:55-75. [PMID: 32618425 DOI: 10.1002/cad.20354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cumulative lifetime adversity and social support were investigated as determinants of psychosocial adjustment (esteem, distress, hopefulness, positive outlook/future aspirations, and sense of purpose) over 12 months in 6-10-years-old HIV-infected, HIV-exposed uninfected and HIV-unexposed uninfected children from Uganda. Each determinant and psychosocial adjustment indicator was self-reported using standardized questionnaires administered at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Linear mixed effects models were used to relate time-varying lifetime adversity and social support to psychosocial adjustment over 12 months. Regardless of HIV status, higher adversity predicted lower esteem (coefficient b = -2.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): [-4.62, -1.35]) and increased distress (b =3.96, 95% CI: [1.29, 6.62]) but was not associated with hopefulness, positive outlook or sense of purpose. Low social support predicted higher distress (b =9.05, 95% CI: [7.36, 10.73]), lower positive outlook (b = -10.56, 95% CI: [-2.34, -8.79]) and low sense of purpose (b = -9.90, 95% CI: [-11.44, -8.36]) over 12 months. Pragmatic interventions that enhance coping with adversity and provide emotional/instrumental support should be tested for effectiveness in promoting resilient psychosocial adjustment trajectory in vulnerable children.
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Kilburn K, Ferrone L, Pettifor A, Wagner R, Gómez-Olivé FX, Kahn K. The Impact of a Conditional Cash Transfer on Multidimensional Deprivation of Young Women: Evidence from South Africa's HTPN 068. SOCIAL INDICATORS RESEARCH 2020; 151:865-895. [PMID: 33029038 PMCID: PMC7508742 DOI: 10.1007/s11205-020-02367-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite the growing popularity of multidimensional poverty measurement and analysis, its use to measure the impact of social protection programs remains scarce. Using primary data collected for the evaluation of HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 068, a randomized, conditional cash transfer intervention for young girls in South Africa that ran from 2011 to 2015, we construct an individual-level measure of multidimensional poverty, a major departure from standard indices that use the household as the unit of analysis. We construct our measure by aggregating multiple deprivation indicators across six dimensions and using a system of nested weights where each domain is weighted equally. Our findings show that the cash transfer consistently reduces deprivations among girls, in particular through the domains of economic agency, violence, and relationships. These results show how social protection interventions can improve the lives of young women beyond single domains and demonstrate the potential for social protection to simultaneously address multiple targets of the SDGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Kilburn
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC USA
| | - Lucia Ferrone
- Department of Economics and Management, University of Florence, via delle Pandette, 9, 50127 Florence, Italy
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ryan Wagner
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - F. Xavier Gómez-Olivé
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kathy Kahn
- Umeå Centre for Global Health Research, Division of Epidemiology and Global Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- INDEPTH Network, Accra, Ghana
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Kidman R, Nachman S, Kohler HP. Interest in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among adolescents and their caregivers in Malawi. AIDS Care 2020; 32:23-31. [PMID: 32178529 PMCID: PMC8073398 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1742861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Over a third of new HIV infections occur in adolescents aged 10-19 globally. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could be a powerful tool for prevention. Understanding more about the drivers of PrEP interest could inform implementation strategies among this age group. Moreover, family dynamics may play a uniquely critical role for this younger age group, thus it is important to gauge whether caregivers would support their children's use of PrEP. We surveyed 2,089 adolescents (aged 10-16) and their caregivers in Malawi during 2017-2018. Data were collected on PrEP interest, factors that may facilitate PrEP use, and preferences for PrEP modality. We used multivariate logistic regression to estimate the association between the above characteristics and PrEP interest. We find that young adolescents are engaging in behaviors that would put them at substantial risk of acquiring HIV, would likely benefit from PrEP, are largely (82%) interested in using such, would prefer to get an injection over taking a daily pill, and are considerably discouraged by the prospect of side effects. Endorsement by caregivers was even greater (87%). Our findings demonstrate initial support for adolescent PrEP, and suggest parents may be a surprising advocate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kidman
- Program in Public Health and Department of Family, Population and Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University (State University of New York), Stony Brook, USA
| | - Sharon Nachman
- Department of Pediatrics, Stony Brook University (State University of New York), Stony Brook, USA
| | - Hans-Peter Kohler
- Department of Sociology and Population Studies Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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35
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Brown LB, Balzer LB, Kabami J, Kwarisiima D, Sang N, Ayieko J, Chen Y, Chamie G, Charlebois ED, Camlin CS, Cohen CR, Bukusi E, Kamya MR, Moody J, Havlir DV, Petersen ML. The Influence of Social Networks on Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among HIV-Infected Antiretroviral Therapy-Naive Youth in Rural Kenya and Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 83:9-15. [PMID: 31809357 PMCID: PMC7793612 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-infected youth in sub-Saharan Africa are less likely to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) than older adults. SETTING AND METHODS Adult (≥15 years) residents enumerated during a census in 32 communities in rural Kenya and Uganda named social contacts in 5 domains: health, money, emotional support, food, and free time. Named contacts were matched to other enumerated residents to build social networks among 150,395 adults; 90% were tested for HIV at baseline. Among youth (15-24 years) who were ART naive at baseline (2013-2014), we evaluated whether having ≥1 network contact who was HIV infected predicted ART initiation within 3 years and modification of this association by age and strength of contact, using logistic regression with robust standard errors. RESULTS Among 1120 HIV-infected youth who were ART naive at baseline, 805 remained alive and community residents after 3 years. Of these, 270 (33.5%) named at least one baseline HIV-infected contact; 70% (569/805) subsequently initiated ART. Youth with ≥1 HIV-infected same-age baseline contact were more likely to initiate ART [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.95; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.49 to 5.86] than those with no HIV-infected contact, particularly if the contact was a strong tie (named in >1 domain; aOR, 5.33; 95% CI: 3.34 to 8.52). When nonhousehold contacts were excluded, having an HIV-infected same age contact who was a strong tie remained associated with ART initiation (aOR, 2.81; 95% CI: 1.76 to 4.49). CONCLUSIONS Interventions that increase and strengthen existing social connections to other HIV-infected peers at the time of HIV diagnosis may increase ART initiation among HIV-infected youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Norton Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | | | | | - Gabriel Chamie
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Carol S Camlin
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Craig R Cohen
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | | | - Moses R Kamya
- School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Diane V Havlir
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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van Wyk BE, Davids LAC. Challenges to HIV treatment adherence amongst adolescents in a low socio-economic setting in Cape Town. South Afr J HIV Med 2019; 20:1002. [PMID: 31745433 PMCID: PMC6852420 DOI: 10.4102/sajhivmed.v20i1.1002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the successful rollout of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and steep declines in HIV incidence in South Africa, this has not been the case for adolescents (10-19 years). Adolescents on HIV treatment have lower rates of viral load suppression and adherence compared to adults and children. Objectives This article reports on the adherence challenges faced by adolescents receiving ART in a primary health care clinic in a low socio-economic urban setting in Cape Town. Method An exploratory qualitative design was employed where data were collected through four focus group discussions with adolescents (n = 15) who received ART at a primary health care clinic in a low socio-economic urban setting in Cape Town and followed up with eight individual, semi-structured interviews with two adolescents from each focus group. Two key informant interviews were conducted with health workers at the clinic. Audio data were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using content analysis. Results School commitments, strained teacher-learner relationships, negative household dynamics and ill treatment by non-biological caregivers were reported as major barriers to adherence. In addition, poor service delivery, missing or misplaced files and long waiting times came under major criticism. Fear of unintended disclosure of HIV status, stigma and discrimination, treatment fatigue and having unstructured lives negatively influenced adherence. Having a strong social support system and having life goals and ambitions were motivators to remain adherent. Conclusion This study highlighted the complexity of ART adherence in the midst of juggling school, home life and personal life goals and aspirations. Interventions to improve adherence should address psychosocial factors such as treatment fatigue, disclosure and family and household dynamics, in addition to streamlining service delivery between the school and clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian E van Wyk
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lee-Ann C Davids
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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37
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Cluver L, Pantelic M, Orkin M, Toska E, Medley S, Sherr L. Sustainable Survival for adolescents living with HIV: do SDG-aligned provisions reduce potential mortality risk? J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 21 Suppl 1. [PMID: 29485739 PMCID: PMC5978664 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present a groundbreaking global development agenda to protect the most vulnerable. Adolescents living with HIV in Sub‐Saharan Africa continue to experience extreme health vulnerabilities, but we know little about the impacts of SDG‐aligned provisions on their health. This study tests associations of provisions aligned with five SDGs with potential mortality risks. Methods Clinical and interview data were gathered from N = 1060 adolescents living with HIV in rural and urban South Africa in 2014 to 2015. All ART‐initiated adolescents from 53 government health facilities were identified, and traced in their communities to include those defaulting and lost‐to‐follow‐up. Potential mortality risk was assessed as either: viral suppression failure (1000+ copies/ml) using patient file records, or adolescent self‐report of diagnosed but untreated tuberculosis or symptomatic pulmonary tuberculosis. SDG‐aligned provisions were measured through adolescent interviews. Provisions aligned with SDGs 1&2 (no poverty and zero hunger) were operationalized as access to basic necessities, social protection and food security; An SDG 3‐aligned provision (ensure healthy lives) was having a healthy primary caregiver; An SDG 8‐aligned provision (employment for all) was employment of a household member; An SDG 16‐aligned provision (protection from violence) was protection from physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Research partners included the South African national government, UNICEF and Pediatric and Adolescent Treatment for Africa. Results 20.8% of adolescents living with HIV had potential mortality risk – i.e. viral suppression failure, symptomatic untreated TB, or both. All SDG‐aligned provisions were significantly associated with reduced potential mortality risk: SDG 1&2 (OR 0.599 CI 0.361 to 0.994); SDG 3 (OR 0.577 CI 0.411 to 0.808); SDG 8 (OR 0.602 CI 0.440 to 0.823) and SDG 16 (OR 0.686 CI 0.505 to 0.933). Access to multiple SDG‐aligned provisions showed a strongly graded reduction in potential mortality risk: Among adolescents living with HIV, potential mortality risk was 38.5% with access to no SDG‐aligned provisions, and 9.3% with access to all four. Conclusions SDG‐aligned provisions across a range of SDGs were associated with reduced potential mortality risk among adolescents living with HIV. Access to multiple provisions has the potential to substantially improve survival, suggesting the value of connecting and combining SDGs in our response to paediatric and adolescent HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Hove, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Orkin
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Development Pathways to Health Research Unit, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sally Medley
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Department of Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Hodes R, Doubt J, Toska E, Vale B, Zungu N, Cluver L. The stuff that dreams are made of: HIV-positive adolescents' aspirations for development. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 21 Suppl 1. [PMID: 29485764 PMCID: PMC5978641 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) commit to strengthening collaborations between governments and civil society. Adolescents are among the key target populations for global development initiatives, but research studies and programmes rarely include their direct perspectives on how to promote health and wellbeing. This article explores how both the methods and the findings of participatory research provide insights into adolescents' aspirations across the domains of health and social development. It investigates how adolescents conceive of health and social services as interconnected, and how this reflects the multisectoral objectives of the SDGs. METHODS This research was conducted within a longitudinal, mixed-methods study of HIV-positive adolescents (n = 80 qualitative participants, n = 1060 quantitative interviews). Between November 2013 and February 2014, a participatory exercise - the "dream clinic" - was piloted with 25 adolescents in South Africa's Eastern Cape. Key themes were identified based on the insights shared by participants, and through visual and thematic analysis. These findings were explored through a second participatory exercise, "Yummy or crummy? You are the Mzantsi Wakho masterchef !," conducted in January 2016. Findings are described in relation to emerging quantitative results. RESULTS Mixed methods explored associations between access to food, medicines, clean water and sanitation in HIV-positive adolescents' aspirations for development. The exercises produced practicable recommendations for innovations in development, based on associations between healthcare, food security, clean water and sanitation, while illustrating the value of partnership and collaboration (the objective of SDG17). Findings capture strong interlinkages between SDGs 2, 3 and 6 - confirming the importance of specific SDGs for HIV-positive adolescents. Study results informed the objectives of South Africa's National and Adolescent and Youth Health Policy (2017). CONCLUSIONS Participatory research may be used to leverage the perspectives and experiences of adolescents. The methods described here provide potential for co-design and implementation of developmental initiatives to fulfil the ambitious mandate of the SDGs. They may also create new opportunities to strengthen the engagement of adolescents in policy and programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hodes
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Doubt
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Elona Toska
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Vale
- Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Casale M, Boyes M, Pantelic M, Toska E, Cluver L. Suicidal thoughts and behaviour among South African adolescents living with HIV: Can social support buffer the impact of stigma? J Affect Disord 2019; 245:82-90. [PMID: 30368074 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.10.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV represent a high-risk population for suicidal ideation and attempts, especially in low-income settings. Yet little is known about risk and protective factors for suicide in this population. METHODS A moderated mediation model was employed to test for potential (a) effects of stigma on suicidal ideation and attempts, both direct and mediated through depression and (b) direct and stress-buffering effects of social support resources on depression and suicidal ideation and attempts, among 1053 HIV-positive 10-19-year-old adolescents from a resource-scarce health district in South Africa. The survey data was collected using full community sampling of 53 clinics and tracing to over 180 communities. Effects of two support resources were tested: perceived support availability from the adolescents' social network and structured clinic support groups. Stigma was measured using the ALHIV-SS scale, depression through the CDI short form and social support through items from the MOS-SS. RESULTS Stigma was a risk factor for depression (B = 0.295; p < 001) and for suicidal thoughts and behaviour (B = 0.185; p < .001). Only perceived support availability was directly associated with less depression (B = -0.182, p < .001). However, both perceived support availability and support group participation contributed to the overall stress-buffering effects moderating the direct and indirect relationships between stigma and suicidal thoughts and behaviour. LIMITATIONS The data used in this study was self-reported and cross-sectional. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that strengthening multiple social support resources for HIV-positive adolescents, through early clinic and community-based interventions, may protect them from experiencing poor mental health and suicidal tendencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Casale
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, South Africa.
| | - Mark Boyes
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Australia
| | - Marija Pantelic
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; International HIV/AIDS Alliance, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Hodes R, Cluver L, Toska E, Vale B. Pesky metrics: the challenges of measuring ART adherence among HIV-positive adolescents in South Africa. CRITICAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/09581596.2018.1550253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hodes
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - 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
| | - Elona Toska
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, 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
| | - Beth Vale
- Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, Centre for African Studies, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Chhim K, Mburu G, Tuot S, Sopha R, Khol V, Chhoun P, Yi S. Factors associated with viral non-suppression among adolescents living with HIV in Cambodia: a cross-sectional study. AIDS Res Ther 2018; 15:20. [PMID: 30445984 PMCID: PMC6240223 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-018-0205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) have worse treatment adherence, viral suppression, and mortality rates compared to adults. This study investigated factors associated with viral non-suppression among adolescents living with HIV in Cambodia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in August 2016 among 328 adolescents living with HIV aged 15-17 years who were randomly selected from 11 ART clinics in the capital city of Phnom Penh and 10 other provinces. Clinical and immunological data, including CD4 count and viral load, were obtained from medical records at ART clinics. Adolescents were categorized as having achieved viral suppression if their latest viral load count was < 1000 ribonucleic acid (RNA) copies/mL. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors independently associated with viral non-suppression. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 15.9 years (SD = 0.8), and 48.5% were female. Median duration on ART was 8.6 (interquartile range = 6.0-10.6) years. Of total, 76.8% of the participants had achieved viral suppression. After adjustment for other covariates, the likelihood of having viral non-suppression remained significantly lower among adolescents who were: older/aged 17 (AOR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.21-0.98), had been on ART for more than 9 years (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.19-0.64), had most recent CD4 count of > 672 (AOR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.26-0.86), had a relative as the main daily caregiver (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.17-0.80), and did not believe that there is a cure for AIDS (AOR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.21-0.75) compared to their reference group. The likelihood of having viral non-suppression also remained significantly higher among adolescents who had first viral load > 628 RNA copies/mL (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.05-4.08) and among those who were receiving HIV care and treatment from an adult clinic (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI 1.56-5.59). CONCLUSIONS The proportion of adolescents living with HIV with viral suppression in this study was relatively high at 76.8%, but falls short of the global target of 90%. Programs targeting younger adolescents and adolescents in transition from pediatric to adult care with a range of interventions including psychosocial support and treatment literacy could further improve viral suppression outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kolab Chhim
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, No. 33, Street 71, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - 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
| | - Ratana Sopha
- 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
| | - 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
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Center for Global Health Research, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA USA
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Malan L, Labuschagne Q, Brechtelsbauer E, Goff DA, Schellack N. Sustainable Access to Antimicrobials; A Missing Component to Antimicrobial Stewardship-A Tale of Two Countries. Front Public Health 2018; 6:324. [PMID: 30488031 PMCID: PMC6246712 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial stewardship encompasses a wide range of processes and interventions designed to ensure that antimicrobials are used in the most effective manner. An important, but often neglected process to include is medicine procurement within hospitals, as the untimely administration of antimicrobials has a direct impact on patient care and antimicrobial resistance. A tender system (an open Request for Proposal, RFP) in South Africa is used in the procurement process to supply medicines and pharmaceutical supplies, whereas in the United States, each hospital is responsible for their own procurement processes. Possible key challenges facing countries to ensure a sustainable medical procurement are poor procurement practices, outdated information systems, and unavailability of human resources to support the current system. This article describes the need for adequate pharmacist–led inventory management systems, for sustainable antimicrobial delivery and the successful implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Strategies to improve inventory control and medication delivery for public sector hospitals in South Africa include the development of national pharmaceutical data management standards. Pharmacist involvement in inventory management principles will ensure that antimicrobials are consistently in adequate supply for patient use, hence promoting safe and effective use while decreasing antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucille Malan
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
| | - Quinten Labuschagne
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
| | | | - Debra A Goff
- Department of Pharmacy, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Natalie Schellack
- Division of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
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43
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Bermudez LG, Ssewamala FM, Neilands TB, Lu L, Jennings L, Nakigozi G, Mellins CA, McKay M, Mukasa M. Does Economic Strengthening Improve Viral Suppression Among Adolescents Living with HIV? Results From a Cluster Randomized Trial in Uganda. AIDS Behav 2018; 22:3763-3772. [PMID: 29846836 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2173-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
To assess the effect of a savings-led economic empowerment intervention on viral suppression among adolescents living with HIV. Using data from Suubi + Adherence, a longitudinal, cluster randomized trial in southern Uganda (2012-2017), we examine the effect of the intervention on HIV RNA viral load, dichotomized between undetectable (< 40 copies/ml) and detectable (≥ 40 copies/ml). Cluster-adjusted comparisons of means and proportions were used to descriptively analyze changes in viral load between study arms while multi-level modelling was used to estimate treatment efficacy after adjusting for fixed and random effects. At 24-months post intervention initiation, the proportion of virally suppressed participants in the intervention cohort increased tenfold (ΔT2-T0 = + 10.0, p = 0.001) relative to the control group (ΔT2-T0 = + 1.1, p = 0.733). In adjusted mixed models, simple main effects tests identified significantly lower odds of intervention adolescents having a detectable viral load at both 12- and 24-months. Interventions addressing economic insecurity have the potential to bolster health outcomes, such as HIV viral suppression, by improving ART adherence among vulnerable adolescents living in low-resource environments. Further research and policy dialogue on the intersections of financial security and HIV treatment are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gauer Bermudez
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Lily Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings
- Department of International Health, Social and Behavioral Interventions Program, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Room E5038, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Gertrude Nakigozi
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, Old Bukoba Road, 279, Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Claude A Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Mary McKay
- George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Miriam Mukasa
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
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44
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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: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [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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45
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Musayón-Oblitas Y, Cárcamo C, Gimbel S. Counseling for improving adherence to antiretroviral treatment: a systematic review. AIDS Care 2018; 31:4-13. [PMID: 30309239 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1533224] [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: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
One-on-one counseling can be an effective strategy to improve patient adherence to HIV treatment. The aim of this systematic review is to examine articles with one-on-one counseling-based interventions, review their components and effectiveness in improving ART adherence. A systematic review, using the following criteria was performed: (i) experimental studies; (ii) published in Spanish, English or Portuguese; (iii) with interventions consisting primarily of counseling; (iv) adherence as the main outcome; (v) published between 2005 and 2016; (vi) targeted 18 to 60 year old, independent of gender or sexual identity. The author reviewed bibliographic databases. Articles were analyzed according to the type of study, type of intervention, period of intervention, theoretical basis for intervention, time used in each counseling session and its outcomes. A total of 1790 records were identified. Nine studies were selected for the review, these applied different types of individual counseling interventions and were guided by different theoretical frameworks. Counseling was applied lasting between 4 to 18 months and these were supervised through three to six sessions over the study period. Individual counseling sessions lasted from 7.5 to 90 minutes (Me. 37.5). Six studies demonstrated significant improvement in treatment. Counseling is effective in improving adherence to ART, but methods vary. Face-to-face and computer counseling showed efficacy in improving the adherence, but not the telephone counseling. More evidence that can determine a basic counseling model without losing the individualized intervention for people with HIV is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesenia Musayón-Oblitas
- a Departamento Académico de Enfermería, Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt , Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia , Lima , Perú
| | - Cesar Cárcamo
- b Departamento de Salud Pública , Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia , Lima , Perú
| | - Sarah Gimbel
- c Department of Family and Child Nursing, Department of Global Health , University of Washington , Washington , DC , USA
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46
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Boyes ME, Cluver LD, Meinck F, Casale M, Newnham E. Mental health in South African adolescents living with HIV: correlates of internalising and externalising symptoms. AIDS Care 2018; 31:95-104. [PMID: 30241443 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1524121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Although declining in all other age groups, AIDS-related deaths among adolescents are increasing. In the context of HIV, mental health problems are associated with negative health outcomes, including non-adherence to life-saving ART. For effective programming it is essential to identify factors associated with psychological outcomes in this population. Adopting a socioecological perspective, we aimed to identify correlates of internalising and externalising symptoms in a large, representative sample of South African adolescents living with HIV. HIV-positive adolescents (n = 1060), who received care in public health facilities in South Africa's Eastern Cape, completed measures of internalising and externalising symptoms. Hypothesised correlates included HIV and health-related factors (physical health, mode of infection, medication side-effects, disclosure, stigma), health-service related factors (negative interactions with clinic staff, clinic support group), interpersonal factors (abuse, bullying victimisation, social support), parenting-related factors (orphanhood, positive parenting, parental monitoring, parent communication), as well as individual and demographic-related factors (self-efficacy, age, gender, urban/rural location, poverty). Correlates operating across a variety of contexts were identified. Bullying victimisation, self-efficacy, and positive parenting may be particularly salient intervention targets as they were associated with better outcomes on most or all mental health measures, can be addressed without directly targeting adolescents living with HIV (reducing the chances of accidental exposure and stigma), and are associated with better adolescent mental health in South Africa more generally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Boyes
- a School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia.,b Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK
| | - Lucie D Cluver
- b Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK.,c Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Franziska Meinck
- b Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK.,d Faculty of Health Sciences , North-West University , Vanderbijlpark , South Africa
| | - Marisa Casale
- b Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK.,e School of Public Health , University of the Western Cape , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Elizabeth Newnham
- a School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences , Curtin University , Perth , Australia.,f FXB Center for Health and Human Rights , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , United States
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47
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Nuwagaba‐Biribonwoha H, Kiragga AN, Yiannoutsos CT, Musick BS, Wools‐Kaloustian KK, Ayaya S, Wolf H, Lugina E, Ssali J, Abrams EJ, Elul B. Adolescent pregnancy at antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation: a critical barrier to retention on ART. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 21:e25178. [PMID: 30225908 PMCID: PMC6141900 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescence and pregnancy are potential risk factors for loss to follow-up (LTFU) while on antiretroviral therapy (ART). We compared adolescent and adult LTFU after ART initiation to quantify the impact of age, pregnancy, and site-level factors on LTFU. METHODS We used routine clinical data for patients initiating ART as young adolescents (YA; 10 to 14 years), older adolescents (OA; 15 to 19 years) and adults (≥20 years) from 2000 to 2014 at 52 health facilities affiliated with the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) East Africa collaboration. We estimated cumulative incidence (95% confidence interval, CI) of LTFU (no clinic visit for ≥6 months after ART initiation) and identified patient and site-level correlates of LTFU, using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models for all patients as well as individual age groups. RESULTS A total of 138,387 patients initiated ART, including 2496 YA, 2955 OA and 132,936 adults. Of these, 55%, 78% and 66%, respectively, were female and 0.7% of YA, 22.3% of OA and 8.3% of adults were pregnant at ART initiation. Cumulative incidence of LTFU at five years was 26.6% (24.6 to 28.6) among YA, 44.1% (41.8 to 46.3) among OA and 29.3% (29.1 to 29.6) among adults. Overall, compared to adults, the adjusted hazard ratio, aHR, (95% CI) of LTFU for OA was 1.54 (1.41 to 1.68) and 0.77 (0.69 to 0.86) for YA. Compared to males, pregnant females had higher hazard of LTFU, aHR 1.20 (1.14 to 1.27), and nonpregnant women had lower hazard aHR 0.90 (0.88 to 0.93). LTFU hazard among the OA was primarily driven by both pregnant and nonpregnant females, aHR 2.42 (1.98 to 2.95) and 1.51 (1.27 to 1.80), respectively, compared to men. The LTFU hazard ratio varied by IeDEA program. Site-level factors associated with overall lower LTFU hazard included receiving care in tertiary versus primary-care clinics aHR 0.61 (0.56 to 0.67), integrated adult and adolescent services and food ration provision aHR 0.93 (0.89 to 0.97) versus nonintegrated clinics with food ration provision, having patient support groups aHR 0.77 (0.66 to 0.90) and group adherence counselling aHR 0.61 (0.57 to 0.67). CONCLUSIONS Older adolescents experienced higher risk of LTFU compared to YA and adults. Interventions to prevent LTFU among older adolescents are critically needed, particularly for female and/or pregnant adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Nuwagaba‐Biribonwoha
- Mailman School of Public HealthICAP at Columbia UniversityNew YorkNY
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia University Mailman School of Public HealthNew YorkNY
| | - Agnes N Kiragga
- Research DepartmentInfectious Diseases InstituteCollege of Health SciencesMakerere UniversityKampalaUganda
| | | | | | | | - Samuel Ayaya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH)Moi UniversityEldoretKenya
| | - Hilary Wolf
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Maryland School of MedicineBaltimoreMD
| | | | - John Ssali
- Masaka Regional Referral HospitalMasakaUganda
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- Mailman School of Public HealthICAP at Columbia UniversityNew YorkNY
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia University Mailman School of Public HealthNew YorkNY
- Vagelos College of Physicians and SurgeonsColumbia UniversityNew YorkNY
| | - Batya Elul
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia University Mailman School of Public HealthNew YorkNY
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48
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Musiimenta A, Atukunda EC, Tumuhimbise W, Haberer JE. Resilience after withdrawing a technology-based medication adherence support intervention from people living with HIV in rural Uganda. AIDS Care 2018; 30:S89-S96. [PMID: 30626191 PMCID: PMC6531604 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1510107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Technology-based interventions for behavior change, such as adherence monitors and SMS text messages, can improve adherence to HIV antiretroviral therapy. It is unclear, however, how the effects of such interventions are maintained when interventions are withdrawn. We explored resiliency of people living with HIV in coping with adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) after withdrawing an adherence support intervention of real-time adherence monitors linked to SMS text messages at study closure. This is a qualitative study conducted with former participants of a pilot randomized controlled trial after study closure. Between April 2016 and November 2016, we used convenient sampling to interview 28 of the 62 participants from the pilot trial, which was conducted in rural Uganda. Interviews elicited information on experiences of taking ART in the absence of the intervention, coping strategies, and changes in social support interactions. Data were analyzed inductively using content analysis. Most participants demonstrated resilience through learning adherence from the intervention; and internalizing the habit of medication adherence. They seemed to have a sense of self-esteem, positive thinking, and access to supportive relationships. Other participants employed adaptive coping strategies, such as using alternative cues (e.g., alarms), accessing spiritual support, and adjusting their medication time to their routine. A few participants lacked resiliency, lost the habit and struggled with adherence. They were dependent on the intervention, appeared isolated and psychologically stressed, and were unable to overcome challenges associated with poor social support systems. Intervention-related benefits may or may not persist after the intervention is withdrawn. Contingent on individuals" underlying characteristics and relationships, participants manifested resiliency through learning and internalization, as well as using alternative coping strategies. Such resiliency could facilitate the use of short-term interventions, which are particularly important for resource-limited settings. Participants should be referred to available additional support at study closure when needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jessica E. Haberer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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49
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Hodes R, Vale B, Toska E, Cluver L, Dowse R, Ashorn M. 'Yummy or crummy?' The multisensory components of medicines-taking among HIV-positive youth. Glob Public Health 2018; 14:284-299. [PMID: 30067457 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2018.1504103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The global rollout of Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) has revealed an urgent need to understand the medicines-taking practices of HIV-positive adolescents. In the last decade, the literature on the social determinants of health has broadened the evidence-base on ART adherence. Interdisciplinary studies have expanded conceptions of medicines-taking beyond clinical or health systems frameworks, recognising the importance of socio-structural conditions and of patients' beliefs and experiences. Participatory research techniques which foreground the perspectives of adolescents provide greater insights still into their adherence. This article explores the use of participatory methods within a broader study on the social determinants of ART adherence among HIV-positive adolescents in South Africa. We describe how participatory methods were incorporated into this study (n = 1,059 in the quantitative baseline). We focus on an exercise, 'Yummy or crummy?', that explored the multisensory dimensions of medicines-taking, including their colour, smell, shape, and delivery mechanism. We describe two principal findings: first, adolescents' preference for greater understanding of the chemical workings of medicines, manifested in their preferences for colour, taste and shape of medicines; and second, the vital relationship between sensory preferences and the social imperatives of discretion and confidentiality regarding HIV-status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hodes
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Beth Vale
- Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, Centre for African Studies, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- AIDS and Society Research Unit, Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lucie Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Oxford University, Oxford, UK.,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ros Dowse
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Mikael Ashorn
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
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50
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Sherr L, Cluver LD, Toska E, He E. Differing psychological vulnerabilities among behaviourally and perinatally HIV infected adolescents in South Africa - implications for targeted health service provision. AIDS Care 2018; 30:92-101. [PMID: 29848010 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2018.1476664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
HIV infections are growing the fastest amongst adolescents, especially in sub Saharan Africa. On reaching adolescence, perinatally-infected youth may have different needs to those who acquired infection behaviourally. Yet both have sub-optimal adherence with implications for their own health as well as onward transmission. This study uses the world's largest community-based study of HIV-positive adolescents from the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Clinic records at N = 53 district health facilities generated a log of all ART-initiated adolescents who were then interviewed in the community: N = 1058 (90%) were tracked and participated. Ethical approval, informed consent and data collector training preceded data gathering. Inventories comprised validated measures of mental health (depression, anxiety, suicidality and internalised stigma), substance use, ART adherence, and clinic attendance. Analyses were conducted using SPSS25 and STATA15. Perinatally-infected adolescents (n = 792, 77.3%) were significantly more likely to be ART adherent (OR = 1.54 95%CI: 1.14-2.07 p = 0.005), retained in healthcare (OR = 1.59 95%CI1.18-2.14 p = 0.002), and treated well by clinic staff (OR = 2.12 95%CI1.59-3.07 p ≤ 0.001). Behaviourally-infected adolescents were more likely to be depressed (B = 0.81 p ≤ 0.001), anxious (B = 1.36 p ≤ 0.001), report internalised stigma (B = 0.91 p ≤ 0.001), express suicidal ideation (OR = 3.65 95%CI: 1.96-6.82 p ≤ 0.001) and report excessive substance use in the past year (OR = 9.37 95%CI5.73-15.35 p ≤ 0.001). Being older explained most of these differences, with female adolescents living with HIV more likely to report suicidal ideation. However, behaviourally-infected adolescents were more likely to report substance use (OR = 2.69 95%CI: 1.48-4.91 p = 0.001), depression (B = 0.406, p = 0.022), anxiety (B = 1.359, p ≤ 0.001), and internalised stigma (B = 0.403, p = 0.007) in multivariate regression analyses, controlling for covariates. Moderation analyses (adjusting for multiple testing) suggest that behaviourally-infected HIV-positive adolescents who are also maternal orphans are more likely to report higher rates of depression (B = 1.075, p < 0.001). These notable differences by mode of infection suggest that studies which conflate HIV-positive adolescents may blur the clinical and psychological experiences of these two different sub-populations. Drivers of non-adherence, poor retention in care, and mental health problems may differ by mode of infection, requiring tailored interventions. Health and social service provision, if it is to be effective, needs to address these different youth profiles to ensure optimal adherence, development and wellbeing throughout the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Sherr
- a UCL , London , United Kingdom
| | - L D Cluver
- b Dept of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , United Kingdom.,c Dept of Psychiatry and Mental Health , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - E Toska
- b Dept of Social Policy and Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , United Kingdom.,d AIDS and Society Research Unit , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - E He
- e Washington University in St. Louis , St Louis , MO , USA
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