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Beres LK, Mwamba C, Bolton-Moore C, Kennedy CE, Simbeza S, Topp SM, Sikombe K, Mukamba N, Mody A, Schwartz SR, Geng E, Holmes CB, Sikazwe I, Denison JA. Trajectories of re-engagement: factors and mechanisms enabling patient return to HIV care in Zambia. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26067. [PMID: 36840391 PMCID: PMC9958345 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While disengagement from HIV care threatens the health of persons living with HIV (PLWH) and incidence-reduction targets, re-engagement is a critical step towards positive outcomes. Studies that establish a deeper understanding of successful return to clinical care among previously disengaged PLWH and the factors supporting re-engagement are essential to facilitate long-term care continuity. METHODS We conducted narrative, patient-centred, in-depth interviews between January and June 2019 with 20 PLWH in Lusaka, Zambia, who had disengaged and then re-engaged in HIV care, identified through electronic medical records (EMRs). We applied narrative analysis techniques, and deductive and inductive thematic analysis to identify engagement patterns and enablers of return. RESULTS We inductively identified five trajectories of care engagement, suggesting patterns in patient characteristics, experienced barriers and return facilitators that may aid intervention targeting including: (1) intermittent engagement;(2) mostly engaged; (3) delayed linkage after testing; (4) needs time to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART); and (5) re-engagement with ART initiation. Patient-identified periods of disengagement from care did not always align with care gaps indicated in the EMR. Key, interactive re-engagement facilitators experienced by participants, with varied importance across trajectories, included a desire for physical wellness and social support manifested through verbal encouragement, facility outreach or personal facility connections and family instrumental support. The mechanisms through which facilitators led to return were: (1) the promising of living out one's life priorities; (2) feeling valued; (3) fostering interpersonal accountability; (4) re-entry navigation support; (5) facilitated care and treatment access; and (6) management of significant barriers, such as depression. CONCLUSIONS While preliminary, the identified trajectories may guide interventions to support re-engagement, such as offering flexible ART access to patients with intermittent engagement patterns instead of stable patients only. Further, for re-engagement interventions to achieve impact, they must activate mechanisms underlying re-engagement behaviours. For example, facility outreach that reminds a patient to return to care but does not affirm a patient's value or navigate re-entry is unlikely to be effective. The demonstrated importance of positive health facility connections reinforces a growing call for patient-centred care. Additionally, interventions should consider the important role communities play in fostering treatment motivation and overcoming practical barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Chanda Mwamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Carolyn Bolton-Moore
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sandra Simbeza
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kombatende Sikombe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Department of Public Health Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Njekwa Mukamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Aaloke Mody
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sheree R Schwartz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elvin Geng
- University of Washington St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Charles B Holmes
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Izukanji Sikazwe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Julie A Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Chigona RK, Mipando ALN. "There Are Just Too Many Rooms Here!" Perception of Clients and Health Care Workers on the Implementation of Test and Treat Strategy at Area 25 Health Center in Lilongwe, Malawi. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2023; 22:23259582231154224. [PMID: 36760147 PMCID: PMC9943958 DOI: 10.1177/23259582231154224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Malawi adopted World Health Organisation test-and-treat policy in 2016. The policy initiates early antiretroviral treatment to all clients diagnosed with HIV, irrespective of their CD4 count. However, some facilities record low linkage following the strategy. Perceptions of clients and health care workers on the implementation of test-and-treat strategy were explored in Malawi. Methods: A descriptive qualitative approach was conducted in which 21 in-depth interviews, 9 key informant interviews, and 15 non-participatory observations were conducted. Data were analyzed following thematic approach. Results: Most participants had positive perceptions of the test-and-treat strategy. However, negative perceptions stemmed from the fragmented structure of the facility with multiple rooms in which the client navigates through as well as limited privacy. Conclusion: Optimal implementation of the test-and-treat strategy will need to strengthen privacy and minimize unintended disclosure that is inherent in the organization of services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Kasiya Chigona
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, 37610University of Malawi College of Medicine, Chichiri, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Alinane Linda Nyondo Mipando
- Lecturer - Health Systems and Policy, Director - MBA in Health Systems Management Program, Department of Health Systems and Policy, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (formerly College of Medicine), Chichiri, Blantyre, Malawi
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Mwamba C, Beres LK, Topp SM, Mukamba N, Simbeza S, Sikombe K, Mody A, Geng E, Holmes CB, Kennedy CE, Sikazwe I, Denison JA, Bolton Moore C. 'I need time to start antiretroviral therapy': understanding reasons for delayed ART initiation among people diagnosed with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia'. Ann Med 2022; 54:830-836. [PMID: 35311423 PMCID: PMC8942536 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2051069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation can improve patient outcomes such as viral suppression and prevent new infections. However, not everyone who can start ART does so immediately. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study to inform interventions supporting rapid initiation in the 'Test and Start' era. We purposively sampled 20 adult patients living with HIV and a previous gap in care from ten health facilities in Lusaka, Zambia for interviews. We inductively analysed transcripts using a thematic, narrative approach. In their narratives, seven participants discussed delaying ART initiation. RESULTS Drawing on messages gleaned from facility-based counselling and community information, many cited greater fear of rapid sickness or death due to imperfect adherence or treatment side effects than negative health consequences due to delayed initiation. Participants described needing time to 'prepare' their minds for a lifetime treatment commitment. Concerns about inadvertent HIV status disclosure during drug collection discouraged immediate initiation, as did feeling healthy, and worries about the impact of ART initiation on relationship dynamics. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that counselling messages should accurately communicate treatment risks, without perpetuating fear-based narratives about HIV. Identifying and managing patient-specific concerns and reasons for the 'need for time' may be important for supporting individuals to rapidly accept lifelong treatment.Key messagesFear-based adherence messaging in health facilities about the dangers of missing a treatment dose or changing the time when ART is taken contributes to Zambian patients' refusals of immediate ART initiationResponsive health systems that balance a stated need for time to accept one's diagnosis and prepare to embark on a lifelong treatment plan with interventions to identify and manage patient-specific treatment related fears and concerns may support more rapid ART initiationPerceived social stigma around HIV continues to be a significant challenge for treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanda Mwamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Stephanie M Topp
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Njekwa Mukamba
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sandra Simbeza
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kombatende Sikombe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,Department of Public Health Environments and Society, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aaloke Mody
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Elvin Geng
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Izukanji Sikazwe
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Julie A Denison
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Olislagers Q, van Leth F, Shabalala F, Dlamini N, Simelane N, Masilela N, Gomez GB, Pell C, Vernooij E, Reis R, Molemans M. Reasons for, and factors associated with, positive HIV retesting: a cross-sectional study in Eswatini. AIDS Care 2022:1-8. [PMID: 36449635 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2142930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Eswatini has a high HIV prevalence but has made progress towards improving HIV-status awareness, ART uptake and viral suppression. However, there is still a delay in ART initiation, which could partly be attributed to positive HIV-retesting. This study examines reasons for, and factors associated with, positive HIV-retesting among MaxART participants in Eswatini. Data from 601 participants is included in this cross-sectional study. Descriptive statistics and logistic regressions were used. Of the participants, 32.8% has ever retested after a previous positive result. Most participants who retested did this because they could not accept their results (61.9% of all retesters). Other main reasons are related to external influences, gender or the progression of their HIV infection (respectively 18.3%, 10.2%, and 6.1% of all retesters). Participants without a current partner and participants with less time since their first positive test have lower odds of retesting. To decrease retesting and reduce the delay in ART initiation resulting from it, efforts could be made on increasing the acceptance of positive HIV results. Providing more information on the process of testing and importance of early ART initiation, could be part of the solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quint Olislagers
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Frank van Leth
- Department of health sciences, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Fortunate Shabalala
- Department of Community Health Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Njabuliso Dlamini
- National Emergency Response Council on HIV and AIDS (NERCHA), Mbabane, Eswatini
| | | | - Nelisiwe Masilela
- Department of Community Health Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Gabriela B. Gomez
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christopher Pell
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Global Health Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eva Vernooij
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ria Reis
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
- The Children’s Institute, School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marjan Molemans
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Tefera E, Mavhandu-Mudzusi AH. Experiences of Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Among HIV-Positive Adults in Ethiopia: A Descriptive Phenomenological Design. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2022; 14:243-254. [PMID: 35637644 PMCID: PMC9148206 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s361913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eden Tefera
- Department of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Eden Tefera, Email
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6
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Kerschberger B, Boulle A, Kuwengwa R, Ciglenecki I, Schomaker M. The Impact of Same-Day Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Under the World Health Organization Treat-All Policy. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:1519-1532. [PMID: 33576383 PMCID: PMC8327202 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with the option to start treatment on the day of diagnosis (same-day ART). However, the effect of same-day ART remains unknown in realistic public sector settings. We established a cohort of ≥16-year-old patients who initiated first-line ART under a treat-all policy in Nhlangano (Eswatini) during 2014-2016, either on the day of HIV care enrollment (same-day ART) or 1-14 days thereafter (early ART). Directed acyclic graphs, flexible parametric survival analysis, and targeted maximum likelihood estimation (TMLE) were used to estimate the effect of same-day-ART initiation on a composite unfavorable treatment outcome (loss to follow-up, death, viral failure, treatment switch). Of 1,328 patients, 839 (63.2%) initiated same-day ART. The adjusted hazard ratio of the unfavorable outcome was higher, 1.48 (95% confidence interval: 1.16, 1.89), for same-day ART compared with early ART. TMLE suggested that after 1 year, 28.9% of patients would experience the unfavorable outcome under same-day ART compared with 21.2% under early ART (difference: 7.7%; 1.3%-14.1%). This estimate was driven by loss to follow-up and varied over time, with a higher hazard during the first year after HIV care enrollment and a similar hazard thereafter. We found an increased risk with same-day ART. A limitation was that possible silent transfers that were not captured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Kerschberger
- Correspondence to Dr. Bernhard Kerschberger, Médecins Sans Frontières, Mantsholo Road 325, Mbabane, Eswatini (e-mail: )
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7
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Beesham I, Issema R, Palanee-Phillips T, Onono M, Evans S, Beksinska M, Ahmed K, Kasaro MP, Batting J, Deese J, Dlamini L, Yankurije B, Thomas KK, Heffron R. ART initiation among women newly diagnosed with HIV in a contraceptive trial in sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Care 2021; 34:478-485. [PMID: 34180277 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1944601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Current guidelines recommend starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) as soon as possible after HIV diagnosis to reduce morbidity, mortality and onward HIV transmission. We examined factors influencing ART initiation by women who seroconverted during the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) Trial. ECHO, conducted between 2015 and 2018, enrolled HIV-negative, sexually active women, aged 16-35 years, from four African countries. Follow-up was 12-18 months, with quarterly HIV testing. Women with incident HIV infection received extensive counselling by trial staff and referral to local facilities for HIV care. Of 304 women with ≥90 days follow-up time since HIV diagnosis, 186(61.2%) initiated ART within 90 days, 69(22.7%) initiated after 90 days, and 49(16.1%) had not initiated by the end of the study. There were no statistically significant differences in characteristics among women who initiated ART ≤90 days versus those who did not. Frequent reasons for delayed or non-initiation of ART included not feeling ready to start ART and being newly diagnosed. In a large clinical trial, ART initiation was modest within 90 days of HIV diagnosis and grew to 84% with longer observation. Despite extensive counselling on the importance of early ART initiation, personal barriers delayed some women from starting ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Beesham
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Rodal Issema
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Kenya Medical Research Institute Center for Microbiology Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Shannon Evans
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Khatija Ahmed
- Setshaba Research Centre, Soshanguve, South Africa & Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit (ECRU), Universities of the Witwatersrand/Fort Hare/Walter Sisulu and Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa
| | | | - Lunga Dlamini
- Family Life Association of Eswatini, Manzini, Eswatini
| | | | | | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health and Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
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Walsh F, Khan S, Bärnighausen T, Hettema A, Lejeune C, Mazibuko S, Mlambo CK, Reis R, Fleming Y, Khumalo G, Zwane M, Okello V, Spiegelman D. Getting to 90-90-90: Experiences from the MaxART Early Access to ART for All (EAAA) Trial in Eswatini. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:324-332. [PMID: 32474844 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00501-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The MaxART Consortium-led by the Eswatini Ministry of Health-implemented multiple interventions between 2012 and 2017 to achieve UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. We summarize key findings from community outreach strategies in support of the first 90 goal, and from the Early Access to ART for All (EAAA) trial on the implementation of a "Treat All" strategy to achieve the second and third 90 goals within a government-managed public health system. RECENT FINDINGS The MaxART Consortium demonstrated that "Fast Track," a problem-solving approach, was effective at increasing testing coverage in the community. Compared with baseline data at 3 months prior to the start of the Fast Track, there was a 273% proportional increase in HIV tests conducted among adolescent males, adolescent females, and adult men, and 722% over baseline for adolescent males. The MaxART EAAA trial further showed that implementation of the Treat All policy was associated with significant two-fold shorter time from enrollment into care to ART initiation than under the standard CD4+ cell threshold-based treatment guidelines. Finally, through the MaxART trial, Eswatini was able to identify areas for further investment, including addressing the system-side barriers to routine viral load monitoring, and designing and implementing innovative community-based approaches to reach individuals who were not more routinely accessing HIV testing and counseling services. As low- and middle-income countries adopt the Treat All approach in their national HIV care and treatment guidelines, further implementation science research is needed to understand and address the system-level barriers to achieving the benefits of Treat All for HIV-infected individuals and those at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shaukat Khan
- Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), 333 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Till Bärnighausen
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, 130.3 INF, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Anita Hettema
- Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Tsekwane St, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | | | | | | | - Ria Reis
- Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Social Science, University of Amsterdam, 1012 WX, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Children's Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yvette Fleming
- aidsfonds, Condensatorweg 54, 1014 AX, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gavin Khumalo
- Eswatini National Network of People Living with HIV (SWANNEPHA), P. O. Box 4161, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Mandisa Zwane
- SAfAIDS, Lamvelase Building, Nkoseluhlaza Street, Manzini, Eswatini
| | - Velephi Okello
- Directorate Office, Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Donna Spiegelman
- Department of Biostatistics, Center on Methods for Implementation and Prevention Science, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA. .,Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Nutrition and Global Health, Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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9
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Brault MA, Spiegelman D, Abdool Karim SS, Vermund SH. Integrating and Interpreting Findings from the Latest Treatment as Prevention Trials. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 17:249-258. [PMID: 32297219 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-020-00492-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In 2018-2019, studies were published assessing the effectiveness of reducing HIV incidence by expanding HIV testing, linkage to HIV treatment, and assistance to persons living with HIV to adhere to their medications (the "90-90-90" strategy). These tests of "treatment as prevention" (TasP) had complex results. RECENT FINDINGS The TasP/ANRS 12249 study in South Africa, the SEARCH study in Kenya and Uganda, and one comparison (arms A to C) of the HPTN 071 (PopART) study in South Africa and Zambia did not demonstrate a community impact on HIV incidence. In contrast, the Botswana Ya Tsie study and the second comparison (arms B to C) of PopART indicated significant ≈ 30% reductions in HIV incidence in the intervention communities where TasP was expanded. We discuss the results of these trials and outline future research and challenges. These include the efficient expansion of widespread HIV testing, better linkage to care, and viral suppression among all persons living with HIV. A top implementation science priority for the next decade is to determine what strategies to use in specific local contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A Brault
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Donna Spiegelman
- Department of Biostatistics; Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Salim S Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sten H Vermund
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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10
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Magaço A, Dovel K, Cataldo F, Nhassengo P, Hoffman R, Nerua L, Tique J, Saide M, Couto A, Mbofana F, Gudo E, Cuco RM, Chicumbe S. 'Good health' as a barrier and facilitator to ART initiation: a qualitative study in the era of test-and-treat in Mozambique. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2019; 21:1059-1073. [PMID: 30636559 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2018.1535091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
HIV test-and-treat programmes are being implemented throughout sub-Saharan Africa, enrolling HIV-positive clients into antiretroviral treatment (ART) immediately after diagnosis, regardless of clinical stage or CD4 count. This study conducted in Mozambique examined what influenced clients who tested HIV-positive in the context of test-and-treat to make ART initiation decisions. Eighty in-depth interviews with HIV-positive clients and nine focus group discussions with health care workers were completed across 10 health facilities. 'Good health' acted simultaneously as a barrier and facilitator; clients in good health often found a positive HIV diagnosis hard to cope with since HIV was traditionally associated with ill health. Concerns about ART side effects, fear of inadvertent HIV status disclosure and discrimination, limited privacy at health facilities and long waiting times were also barriers to initiation. In contrast, being in good health also acted as a motivator to start treatment so as to remain healthy, maintain responsibilities such as work and caring for dependents and avoid unwanted disclosure. Study findings offer an in-depth understanding of the complex dynamics between individual perceptions of 'being healthy' and its influence on ART initiation within the context of test-and-treat programme implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amílcar Magaço
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
| | - Kathryn Dovel
- b Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine , University of California , Los Angeles , CA , USA
- c Research Department , Partners in Hope , Lilongwe , Malawi
| | - Fabian Cataldo
- d Institute for Global Health and Development , Queen Margaret University , Edinburgh , UK
| | - Pedroso Nhassengo
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
| | - Risa Hoffman
- b Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine , University of California , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Lucas Nerua
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
| | - José Tique
- e National STI, HIV/AIDS Control Program , Maputo , Mozambique
| | - Mohomed Saide
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
| | - Aleny Couto
- e National STI, HIV/AIDS Control Program , Maputo , Mozambique
| | | | - Eduardo Gudo
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
| | | | - Sérgio Chicumbe
- a Research Department , National Institute of Health , Maputo , Mozambique
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11
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Pell C, Reis R, Dlamini N, Moyer E, Vernooij E. 'Then her neighbour will not know her status': how health providers advocate antiretroviral therapy under universal test and treat. Int Health 2019; 11:36-41. [PMID: 30137387 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihy058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Universal test and treat (UTT)-antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all HIV-positive individuals regardless of CD4 count-is the WHO's recommended treatment guideline. UTT has implications for health providers' workload in areas of high HIV prevalence and for understandings of ART and HIV. This article explores health providers' experiences of implementing UTT in Hhohho Region, Eswatini. Methods Between March 2015 and October 2016, in-depth interviews were conducted with health providers implementing UTT. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated into English for qualitative content analysis. Results Twenty-five providers from eight facilities were interviewed. Respondents encouraged early ART by promoting its overall health benefits, and the possibility of avoiding disclosure and HIV-related stigma in the community. Some health providers downplayed UTT's preventive benefits to avoid discouraging condom use. Respondents suggested that initiating ART immediately after testing could improve linkage-to-care, but recognized that overly hasty initiation might affect adherence. Viral load testing was seen as a potentially useful tool to monitor clients' response to ART. Conclusions Health providers appropriated stigma to encourage early ART. This suggests an attentiveness to the social burden of HIV/AIDS, but potentially exacerbates discrimination and conflicts with efforts to reduce HIV-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Pell
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD), AHTC, Tower C4, Paasheuvelweg 25, BP, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ria Reis
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,The Children's Institute, School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, 46 Sawkins Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Hippocratespad 21 ZD, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Njabuliso Dlamini
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Clinton Health Access Initiative, 4th Floor, Lilunga House, Somhlolo Road, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Eileen Moyer
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eva Vernooij
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Social Anthropology, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Molemans M, Vernooij E, Dlamini N, Shabalala FS, Khan S, van Leth F, Gomez GB, Reis R. Changes in disclosure, adherence and healthcare interactions after the introduction of immediate ART initiation: an analysis of patient experiences in Swaziland. Trop Med Int Health 2019; 24:563-570. [PMID: 30739385 PMCID: PMC6850272 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction There are concerns that immediate ART initiation (regardless of CD4 count) negatively affects HIV status disclosure, ART adherence and healthcare interactions. We assessed changes in these factors after the ‘Early access to ART for all’ intervention, a universal test‐and‐treat study in Swaziland. Methods We recruited two samples of participants between 2014 and 2017. The first group was interviewed before the intervention (control); the second group at the implementation and 6 months thereafter (intervention). Results High levels of disclosure to partners (controls and intervention: 94%) and family members (controls: 78%, intervention: 79%) were reported, and high levels of adherence (85% did not miss a dose among the controls, 84% in the intervention group). There were no changes in patients reporting feeling pressured to initiate ART (controls: 10%, intervention: 11%). The quality of interaction with healthcare workers improved after the intervention; healthcare workers explained more often the choice of ART initiation (controls: 88%, intervention: 93%) and the meaning of both CD4 and viral load test results (controls: 15%, intervention: 47%). More patients in the intervention group reported receiving test results (controls: 13%, intervention: 46%). We observed no changes in disclosure, adherence or patient experiences 6 months into the intervention compared to its start. Conclusion Our results suggest that both reported adherence and disclosure levels remain high after the introduction of immediate ART in Swaziland. We observed an improvement in the healthcare interactions, possibly due to training at participating facilities, which will be an important element for a successful roll‐out of immediate ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Molemans
- Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Vernooij
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Department of Anthropology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Social Anthropology, School of Social and Political Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Njabuliso Dlamini
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Department of Anthropology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fortunate S Shabalala
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Department of Anthropology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Community Health Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Swaziland, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - Shaukat Khan
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - Frank van Leth
- Department of Global Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriela B Gomez
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ria Reis
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, Department of Anthropology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.,The Children's Institute, School of Child and Adolescent Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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13
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Horter S, Wringe A, Thabede Z, Dlamini V, Kerschberger B, Pasipamire M, Lukhele N, Rusch B, Seeley J. "Is it making any difference?" A qualitative study examining the treatment-taking experiences of asymptomatic people living with HIV in the context of Treat-all in Eswatini. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25220. [PMID: 30697970 PMCID: PMC6351702 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treat-all is being implemented in several African settings, in accordance with 2015 World Health Organisation guidelines. The factors known to undermine adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) may change in the context of Treat-all, where people living with HIV (PLHIV) increasingly initiate ART at earlier, asymptomatic stages of disease, soon after diagnosis. This paper aimed to examine the asymptomatic PLHIV's experiences engaging with early ART initiation under the Treat-all policy, including how they navigate treatment-taking over the longer term. METHODS A longitudinal qualitative study was conducted within a Médecins Sans Frontières/Ministry of Health Treat-all pilot in Shiselweni, southern Eswatini. The Treat-all pilot began in October 2014, adopted into national policy in October 2016. Participants were recruited purposively to include newly diagnosed, clinically asymptomatic PLHIV with a range of treatment-taking experiences, and healthcare workers (HCW) with various roles. This analysis drew upon a sub-sample of 17 PLHIV who had been on ART for at least 12 months, with mean 20 months on ART at first interview, and who undertook three interviews each. Additionally, 20 HCWs were interviewed once. Interviews were conducted from August 2016 to September 2017. Data were analysed thematically using coding, drawing upon principles of grounded theory, and aided by Nvivo 11. RESULTS It was important for PLHIV to perceive the need for treatment, and to have evidence of its effectiveness to motivate their treatment-taking, thereby supporting engagement with care. For some, coming to terms with a HIV diagnosis or re-interpreting past illnesses as signs of HIV could point to the need for ART to prevent health deterioration and prolong life. However, others doubted the accuracy of an HIV diagnosis and the need for treatment in the absence of symptoms or signs of ill health, with some experimenting with treatment-taking as a means of seeking evidence of their need for treatment and its effect. Viral load monitoring appeared important in offering a view of the effect of treatment on the level of the virus, thereby motivating continued treatment-taking. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the importance of PLHIV perceiving need for treatment and having evidence of the difference that ART is making to them for motivating treatment-taking. Patient support should be adapted to address these concerns, and viral load monitoring made routinely available within Treat-all care, with communication of suppressed results emphasized to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shona Horter
- Médecins Sans FrontièresNhlanganoEswatini
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
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14
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Rufu A, Chitimbire VTS, Nzou C, Timire C, Owiti P, Harries AD, Apollo T. Implementation of the 'Test and Treat' policy for newly diagnosed people living with HIV in Zimbabwe in 2017. Public Health Action 2018; 8:145-150. [PMID: 30271732 DOI: 10.5588/pha.18.0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Setting: Sixteen mission hospitals in Zimbabwe that are implementing the 'Test and Treat' programme for people living with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Objectives: To assess linkages of HIV diagnosis to care and treatment, time taken from being diagnosed with HIV infection to initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 3-month programmatic outcomes for those starting ART. Design: Cross-sectional study using secondary data. Results: Among 972 people newly diagnosed with HIV, 915 (94%) enrolled for HIV care and 771 (79%) were initiated on ART. Enrolment in care and initiation on ART on the same day as testing occurred in respectively 864 (89%) and 628 (65%) newly diagnosed patients. Over 80% of those who underwent HIV testing in maternal and child health departments initiated ART on the same day. Of the 144 (16%) people in care who were not initiated on ART, the principal reason in 102 (71%) was being transferred out. Most patients (90%) on ART were retained in care at 3 months, with transfer out accounting for most of the remainder. Conclusion: The 'Test and Treat' approach was feasible and successful in getting newly HIV-infected people initiated early on ART. More research is needed to better understand the processes, benefits and potential risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rufu
- Zimbabwe Association of Church-Related Hospitals, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - V T S Chitimbire
- Zimbabwe Association of Church-Related Hospitals, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - C Nzou
- Zimbabwe Association of Church-Related Hospitals, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - C Timire
- International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union), Harare, Zimbabwe.,National TB Control Programme, Ministry of Health and Child Care Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - P Owiti
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya.,The Union, Paris, France
| | - A D Harries
- The Union, Paris, France.,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - T Apollo
- National AIDS Programme, Ministry of Health and Child Care Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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