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Tsoumanis A, Vanden Berghe W, Hens N, Van Dijck C. Estimating Partnership Duration among MSM in Belgium-A Modeling Study. Infect Dis Rep 2024; 16:435-447. [PMID: 38804442 DOI: 10.3390/idr16030032] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mathematical modeling is widely used for describing infection transmission and evaluating interventions. The lack of reliable social parameters in the literature has been mentioned by many modeling studies, leading to limitations in the validity and interpretation of the results. Using data from the European MSM Internet survey 2017, we developed a network model to describe sex acts among MSM in Belgium. The model simulates daily sex acts among steady, persistent casual and one-off partners in a population of 10,000 MSM, grouped as low- or high-activity by using three different definitions. Model calibration was used to estimate partnership duration and homophily rates to match the distribution of cumulative sex partners over 12 months. We estimated an average duration between 1065 and 1409 days for steady partnerships, 4-6 and 251-299 days for assortative high- and low-activity individuals and 8-13 days for disassortative persistent casual partnerships, respectively, varying across the three definitions. High-quality data on social network and behavioral parameters are scarce in the literature. Our study addresses this lack of information by providing a method to estimate crucial parameters for network specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achilleas Tsoumanis
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Modelling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Wim Vanden Berghe
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Niel Hens
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Modelling Infectious Diseases (CHERMID), Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Data Science Institute, Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Christophe Van Dijck
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Nationalestraat 155, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
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García de Lomas-Guerrero JMA, Jiménez-García N, Fernández-Sánchez F, Del Arco-Jiménez A, Prada-Pardal JL, de la Torre-Lima J. Missed opportunities in the early detection of HIV infection in patients with sexually transmitted infections: A real-life study. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2024; 42:146-148. [PMID: 38302371 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted diseases such as cervicitis, proctitis and urethritis are associated with high rates of HIV infection. When these pathologies are suspected, HIV serology should be requested. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was performed during 2018 at the Hospital Costa del Sol (Marbella, Málaga, Spain). HIV serologies requested in patients who were asked for PCR for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae were reviewed. RESULTS A total of 1818 patients were evaluated, in which HIV serology was performed in 44.7%, of which 14 (1.7%) were positive. The remaining 55.3% were missed diagnostic opportunities. CONCLUSIONS C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infections are associated with a high rate of occult HIV infection. The degree of suspicion of HIV in this population remains low and it is essential that it be reinforced in the presence of the possibility of infection by these pathologies.
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Allan-Blitz LT, Fifer H, Klausner JD. Managing treatment failure in Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection: current guidelines and future directions. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024:S1473-3099(24)00001-X. [PMID: 38367636 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00001-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Due to the continued emergence of resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotics, clinicians are increasingly more likely to encounter cases of Neisseria gonorrhoeae treatment failure. The current international treatment guidelines offer few regimens for cases of N gonorrhoeae infection that do not respond to first-line therapy, and there are many complexities that should be considered with such regimens; these include regional variations in resistance to alternative agents, access to different antibiotics, and penetration of those antibiotics within different tissues. Further, such regimens do not account for the challenges of treating pharyngeal infections; many patients who have not responded to treatment with extended-spectrum cephalosporin antibiotics to date have had pharyngeal involvement. In addition, pharyngeal infections play a pivotal role in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance in N gonorrhoeae and are more difficult to treat than urogenital infections because of the unfavourable pharmacokinetics of cephalosporins in pharyngeal tissues. Here, we summarise the current guidelines, provide additional approaches and considerations for clinicians, and highlight knowledge gaps that should be addressed to ensure appropriate therapy in cases of treatment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lao-Tzu Allan-Blitz
- Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Helen Fifer
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI & HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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d'Entremont-Harris M, MacNabb K, Wilby KJ, Ramsey TD. Pharmacy-based sexually transmitted infection service implementation considerations: A scoping review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:186-196.e2. [PMID: 38453662 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are rising despite significant management efforts in traditional healthcare settings. The growing number of individuals affected by STIs demonstrates a gap in care. Pharmacy-based STI clinical services are a potential solution to improve care. OBJECTIVE To identify and summarize research about the implementation of pharmacy-based STI services, focusing on program characteristics, barriers, facilitators, and pharmacist and patient experiences. METHODS A search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was conducted for papers evaluating STI expanded-scope clinical services performed by regulated pharmacists in an outpatient/community pharmacy setting. Study setting, design, data collection method, outcomes, target infection, services offered, patient population, and barriers and facilitators are reported. RESULTS Twelve studies, 11 cross-sectional and 1 randomized control trial, were identified in this review. All studies focused on chlamydia, and two included gonorrhea and trichomoniasis or syphilis. Eleven services investigated STI screening, with four also offering treatment, and two offering partner treatment. Overall, patients reported positive experiences, found the services accessible, and trusted pharmacists. Pharmacists recognized the importance of STI services, were keen, and felt comfortable performing clinical tasks. Patients described convenience as a key facilitator, and concerns about privacy, particularly at the pharmacy counter, and the stigma and fear of judgement associated with STIs as primary barriers. For facilitators, pharmacists reported increased job satisfaction and a sense of relieving the burden on traditional STI services; for barriers, pharmacists highlighted patient recruitment, communication challenges, and lack of remuneration. CONCLUSION Research on pharmacy-based STI services includes predominately small-scale, cross-sectional studies, and focuses on chlamydia screening. Both patients and pharmacists perceive these services to be acceptable and feasible, though strategies addressing patient privacy and recruitment, pharmacist competency, training, and remuneration must be considered to support the success of pharmacy-based STI services.
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Hamilton DT, Wang LY, Hoover KW, Smith DK, Delaney KP, Li J, Hoyte T, Jenness SM, Goodreau SM. Potential contribution of PrEP uptake by adolescents 15-17 years old to achieving the "Ending the HIV Epidemic" incidence reduction goals in the US South. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288588. [PMID: 37943869 PMCID: PMC10635552 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The "Ending the HIV Epidemic" (EHE) initiative seeks to reduce new HIV infections in the U.S. by prioritizing federal resources towards highly impacted populations. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are essential for reaching EHE goals. Adolescents are often at increased risk for HIV because they may lack agency in negotiating their sexual partnerships and may not have the same access to treatment and prevention as adults. This study estimates the potential contribution of expanded PrEP coverage among adolescents ages 15-17 to achieving the EHE goals in the South. METHODS An HIV-transmission model was built to simulate the HIV epidemic in the South. Increased ART and PrEP uptake were systematically varied with and without PrEP eligibility including individuals age<18. RESULTS Prioritizing PrEP for adolescents had a negligible impact on incidence. At 50% uptake among eligible adolescents and 90% ART coverage, including adolescents only improved the percentage of infections averted from 80.1% to 80.3%. In 10 of 15 scenarios explored, there was no reduction in new infections when PrEP eligibility was expanded to include adolescents age<18. At 95% ART coverage at the population-level incidence among adolescents declined by over 80%, but PrEP uptake among adolescents did not contribute to additional declines in incidence among adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Prioritizing PrEP for adolescents did not significantly contribute to reaching EHE incidence reductions goal. Focusing resources to specific adolescent populations at risk, such sexual minority males in high incidence settings, will remain an important public health goal outside the context of EHE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deven T. Hamilton
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Li Yan Wang
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Karen W. Hoover
- Division of HIV Prevention (DHP), National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Dawn K. Smith
- Division of HIV Prevention (DHP), National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Kevin P. Delaney
- Division of HIV Prevention (DHP), National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Jingjing Li
- Division of Adolescent and School Health, National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Tamika Hoyte
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Samuel M. Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Steven M. Goodreau
- Departments of Anthropology and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Allan-Blitz LT, Shah P, Adams G, Branda JA, Klausner JD, Goldstein R, Sabeti PC, Lemieux JE. Development of Cas13a-based assays for Neisseria gonorrhoeae detection and gyrase A determination. mSphere 2023; 8:e0041623. [PMID: 37732792 PMCID: PMC10597441 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00416-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections. The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae is an urgent public health threat. Currently, the diagnosis of N. gonorrhoeae infection requires expensive laboratory infrastructure, while antimicrobial susceptibility determination requires bacterial culture, both of which are infeasible in low-resource areas where the prevalence of infection is highest. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics, such as specific high-sensitivity enzymatic reporter unlocking (SHERLOCK) using CRISPR-Cas13a and isothermal amplification, have the potential to provide low-cost detection of pathogen and antimicrobial resistance. We designed and optimized RNA guides and primer sets for SHERLOCK assays capable of detecting N. gonorrhoeae via the porA gene and of predicting ciprofloxacin susceptibility via a single mutation in the gyrase A (gyrA) gene. We evaluated their performance using both synthetic DNA and purified N. gonorrhoeae isolates. For porA, we created both a fluorescence-based assay and lateral flow assay using a biotinylated fluorescein reporter. Both methods demonstrated sensitive detection of 14 N. gonorrhoeae isolates and no cross-reactivity with 3 non-gonococcal Neisseria isolates. For gyrA, we created a fluorescence-based assay that correctly distinguished between 20 purified N. gonorrhoeae isolates with phenotypic ciprofloxacin resistance and 3 with phenotypic susceptibility. We confirmed the gyrA genotype predictions from the fluorescence-based assay with DNA sequencing, which showed 100% concordance for the isolates studied. We report the development of Cas13a-based SHERLOCK assays that detect N. gonorrhoeae and differentiate ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates from ciprofloxacin-susceptible isolates. IMPORTANCE Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the cause of gonorrhea, disproportionately affects resource-limited settings. Such areas, however, lack the technical capabilities for diagnosing the infection. The consequences of poor or absent diagnostics include increased disease morbidity, which, for gonorrhea, includes an increased risk for HIV infection, infertility, and neonatal blindness, as well as an overuse of antibiotics that contributes to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. We used a novel CRISPR-based technology to develop a rapid test that does not require laboratory infrastructure for both diagnosing gonorrhea and predicting whether ciprofloxacin can be used in its treatment, a one-time oral pill. With further development, that diagnostic test may be of use in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lao-Tzu Allan-Blitz
- Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Palak Shah
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gordon Adams
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John A. Branda
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey D. Klausner
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robert Goldstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pardis C. Sabeti
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jacob E. Lemieux
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Nyasani DK, Ondora OM, Lunani LL, Ombati GO, Mutisya EM, Mutua GN, Price MA, Osero JO. Sexually transmitted infection knowledge among men who have sex with men in Nairobi, Kenya. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281793. [PMID: 37683033 PMCID: PMC10490897 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) have been reported, but there is little research on their STI knowledge. Our study sought to determine participants' characteristics that contribute to either high or low STI knowledge among MSM in Nairobi, Kenya. METHODS We mobilized MSM aged ≥18 years from Nairobi into a cross-sectional study. To determine their understanding of STIs, a pre-tested structured questionnaire was administered. Knowledge score was generated by summing up the number of responses answered correctly by a participant. We dichotomized scores as "low" and "high", by splitting the group at <12 and ≥12 which was the mean. RESULTS A total of 404 participants were interviewed between March and August 2020. The mean age was 25.2 (SD = 6.4) years. Majority were single (80.4%) and Christians (84.2%). All participants had some formal education ranging from primary to tertiary; the majority (92.3%) had secondary education or more. Most (64.0%) were employed and their monthly income ranged from <50->150 USD. Almost all (98.5%) were Kenyans. Of the 404 (90.6%) self-identified as male and (47.5%) reported to be exclusively top partners. Many (39.9%) reported being versatile, while those reporting to be bottom partners were, (12.6%). The last 12 months, (55.4%) of the participants reported having sex with men only and (88.6%) reported to have had multiple sexual partners. Participants scored an average of 12.2, SD 4.5. Multivariable backward elimination logistic regression revealed that participants who had tertiary education (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.32-0.77), a higher income (aOR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.22-0.75) and were engaging in vaginal sex (aOR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.25-2.78) predicted significantly higher odds of high knowledge in the final multivariable model. CONCLUSION Participant's knowledge level regarding STIs was low. We recommend health care workers to continue educating patients about STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delvin Kwamboka Nyasani
- Kenyatta University Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Nairobi, Kenya
- KAVI Institute of Clinical Research, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Matt. A. Price
- IAVI, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Justus Osano Osero
- Kenyatta University Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Nairobi, Kenya
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Brainard J, Smith LE, Potts HWW, Rubin GJ. The relationship between age and sex partner counts during the mpox outbreak in the UK, 2022. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291001. [PMID: 37682827 PMCID: PMC10490899 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the dynamics of an infectious disease outbreak linked to sexual activity requires valid expectations of likely counts of unique sex partners during the infectious period. Typically, age is the key demographic trait linked to expected partner count, with many transmission models removing adults from the sexually active pool abruptly at a pre-specified age threshold. Modelling the rate of decline in partner counts with age would benefit from a better description of empirical evidence. METHODS During the 2022 mpox epidemic in the UK, we asked individuals about their partner counts in the preceding three weeks, which is about the same as usual infectious period for persons with active mpox. We used negative binomial regression (all responses) and Weibull regression (non-zero responses) to analyse the relationship between age and partner counts, adjusted for other demographic data (such as education level and occupation), sub-dividing by three types of respondent: men who have sex with men (MSM), men who have sex with women, and women who have sex with men. RESULTS Most respondents had zero or one recent partner, all distributions were skewed. There was a relatively linear declining relationship between age and partner counts for heterosexual partnership groups, but a peak in partner counts and concurrency for MSMs in middle age years (age 35-54), especially for MSM who seemed to be in a highly sexually active subgroup. CONCLUSION Useful data were collected that can be used to describe sex partner counts during the British mpox epidemic and that show distinctive partner count relationships with age, dependent on partnership type.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julii Brainard
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia Norwich, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Louise E. Smith
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Henry W. W. Potts
- Institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - G. James Rubin
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Schuetz A, Corley MJ, Sacdalan C, Phuang-Ngern Y, Nakpor T, Wansom T, Ehrenberg PK, Sriplienchan S, Thomas R, Ratnaratorn N, Sukhumvittaya S, Tragonlugsana N, Slike BM, Akapirat S, Pinyakorn S, Rerknimitr R, Pang AP, Kroon E, Teeratakulpisan N, Krebs SJ, Phanuphak N, Ndhlovu LC, Vasan S. Distinct mucosal and systemic immunological characteristics in transgender women potentially relating to HIV acquisition. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e169272. [PMID: 37432754 PMCID: PMC10543719 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.169272] [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: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender women (TGW) are disproportionally affected by HIV infection, with a global estimated prevalence of 19.9%, often attributed to behavioral risk factors, with less known about biological factors. We evaluated potential biological risk factors for HIV acquisition in TGW at the sites of viral entry by assessing immune parameters of the neovaginal surface and gut mucosa. The neovagina in TGW, compared with the vagina in cisgender women (CW), shows distinct cell composition and may pose a more inflammatory environment, evidenced by increased CD4+ T cell activation and higher levels of soluble markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, soluble CD30). Increased inflammation may be driven by microbiome composition, as shown by a greater abundance of Prevotella and a higher Shannon Diversity Index. In addition, we have observed higher frequency of CD4+CCR5+ target cells and decreased DNA methylation of the CCR5 gene in the gut mucosa of TGW compared with CW and men who have sex with men, which was inversely correlated with testosterone levels. The rectal microbiome composition in TGW appears to favor a proinflammatory milieu as well as mucosal barrier disruption. Thus, it is possible that increased inflammation and higher frequencies of CCR5-expressing target cells at sites of mucosal viral entry may contribute to increased risk of HIV acquisition in TGW, with further validation in larger studies warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Schuetz
- Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael J. Corley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | | | - Tanyaporn Wansom
- Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Philip K. Ehrenberg
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Rasmi Thomas
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Bonnie M. Slike
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Siriwat Akapirat
- Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suteeraporn Pinyakorn
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rungsun Rerknimitr
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Alina P.S. Pang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eugène Kroon
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Shelly J. Krebs
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sandhya Vasan
- US Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc., Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Allan-Blitz LT, Shah P, Adams G, Branda JA, Klausner JD, Goldstein R, Sabeti PC, Lemieux JE. Development of Cas13a-based Assays for Neisseria gonorrhoeae Detection and Gyrase A Determination. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.05.21.23290304. [PMID: 37293004 PMCID: PMC10246164 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.21.23290304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Neisseria gonorrhoeae is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections. The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae is an urgent public health threat. Currently, diagnosis of N. gonorrhoeae infection requires expensive laboratory infrastructure, while antimicrobial susceptibility determination requires bacterial culture, both of which are infeasible in low-resource areas where prevalence is highest. Recent advances in molecular diagnostics, such as Specific High-sensitivity Enzymatic Reporter unLOCKing (SHERLOCK) using CRISPR-Cas13a and isothermal amplification, have the potential to provide low-cost detection of pathogen and antimicrobial resistance. Methods and Results We designed and optimized RNA guides and primer-sets for SHERLOCK assays capable of detecting N. gonorrhoeae via the por A gene and of predicting ciprofloxacin susceptibility via a single mutation in the gyrase A ( gyr A) gene. We evaluated their performance using both synthetic DNA and purified N. gonorrhoeae isolates. For por A, we created both a fluorescence-based assay and lateral flow assay using a biotinylated FAM reporter. Both methods demonstrated sensitive detection of 14 N. gonorrhoeae isolates and no cross-reactivity with 3 non-gonococcal Neisseria isolates. For gyr A, we created a fluorescence-based assay that correctly distinguished between 20 purified N. gonorrhoeae isolates with phenotypic ciprofloxacin resistance and 3 with phenotypic susceptibility. We confirmed the gyr A genotype predictions from the fluorescence-based assay with DNA sequencing, which showed 100% concordance for the isolates studied. Conclusion We report the development of Cas13a-based SHERLOCK assays that detect N. gonorrhoeae and differentiate ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates from ciprofloxacin-susceptible isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lao-Tzu Allan-Blitz
- Division of Global Health Equity: Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, MA
- Division of Infectious Diseases: Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Palak Shah
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, MA
- Division of Infectious Diseases: Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Gordon Adams
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, MA
- Division of Infectious Diseases: Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - John A. Branda
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Jeffrey D. Klausner
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Robert Goldstein
- Division of Infectious Diseases: Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Pardis C. Sabeti
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, MA
| | - Jacob E. Lemieux
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Boston, MA
- Division of Infectious Diseases: Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
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Bourdeau B, Shade SB, Koester KA, Rebchook GM, Steward WT, Agins BM, Myers JJ, Phan SH, Matosky M. Rapid start antiretroviral therapies for improved engagement in HIV care: implementation science evaluation protocol. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:503. [PMID: 37198586 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09500-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, the Health Resources and Services Administration's HIV/AIDS Bureau funded an initiative to promote implementation of rapid antiretroviral therapy initiation in 14 HIV treatment settings across the U.S. The goal of this initiative is to accelerate uptake of this evidence-based strategy and provide an implementation blueprint for other HIV care settings to reduce the time from HIV diagnosis to entry into care, for re-engagement in care for those out of care, initiation of treatment, and viral suppression. As part of the effort, an evaluation and technical assistance provider (ETAP) was funded to study implementation of the model in the 14 implementation sites. METHOD The ETAP has used implementation science methods framed by the Dynamic Capabilities Model integrated with the Conceptual Model of Implementation Research to develop a Hybrid Type II, multi-site mixed-methods evaluation, described in this paper. The results of the evaluation will describe strategies associated with uptake, implementation outcomes, and HIV-related health outcomes for patients. DISCUSSION This approach will allow us to understand in detail the processes that sites to implement and integrate rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy as standard of care as a means of achieving equity in HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Bourdeau
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Starley B Shade
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly A Koester
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Greg M Rebchook
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Wayne T Steward
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bruce M Agins
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Janet J Myers
- Division of Prevention Science, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Son H Phan
- Division of Policy and Data, Health Resources and Services Administration HIV/AIDS Bureau, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Marlene Matosky
- Division of Policy and Data, Health Resources and Services Administration HIV/AIDS Bureau, Rockville, MD, USA
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HIV prevalence and associated risk factors among young tertiary student men who have sex with men (MSM) in Nairobi, Kenya: a respondent-driven sampling survey. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:7. [PMID: 36747178 PMCID: PMC9900555 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00502-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young men who have sex with men (MSM), are a key population at higher risk of HIV infection yet they are underrepresented in research. We conducted a bio-behavioral survey to estimate HIV prevalence and associated risk factors among tertiary student MSM (TSMSM) in Nairobi, Kenya. METHODS Between February and March 2021, 248 TSMSM aged ≥ 18 years who reported sex with another man in the past year participated in a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) based cross-sectional survey. Participants completed an electronically self-administered behavioral survey and provided a blood sample for HIV antibody testing, alongside urine, anorectal and oropharyngeal swabs for pooled testing of sexually transmitted infections using a multiplex nucleic acid amplification test. RDS-Analyst v.0.72 and Stata v.15 software were used for data analysis. Differences in proportions were examined using chi-square (χ2) test, and unweighted multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with HIV infection. RESULTS HIV prevalence among study participants was 8.3%, whereas the weighted prevalence was 3.6% (95% CI: 1.3-6.0%). Median ages of participants, and at self-reported first anal sex with a man were 21(interquartile range [IQR] 20-22) and 18 (IQR 17-19) years, respectively. A majority (89.3%) of TSMSM owned a smart phone, 46.5% had ever used a geosocial networking app for MSM such as Grindr ® to find a sex partner, and a third (33.6%) met their last sex partner online. Almost three-quarters (71.3%) had > 1 male sex partner in the year before the survey. A third (34.3%) did not use condoms with their last sex partner, 21.2% received money from their last sex partner and 40.9% had taken alcohol/another drug during their last sexual encounter. HIV infection was associated with studying in private institutions (adjusted odds ratio[AOR] = 6.0; 95% confidence intervals [CI] : 1.2-30.0, p = 0.027), preferring a sex partner of any age-younger, same or older (AOR = 5.2; 95 CI: 1.1-25.2, p = 0.041), last sex partner being > 25 years (AOR = 6.4; 95% CI: 1.2-34.6, p = 0.030), meeting the last sex partner online (AOR = 4.2; 95% CI; 1.1-17.0, p = 0.043) and testing positive for Neisseria gonorrhea (AOR = 7.8; 95% CI: 2.0-29.9, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS HIV prevalence among TSMSM in Nairobi is alarmingly high, demonstrating a need for tailored prevention and control interventions for this young key population.
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Jones J, Jenness SM, Le Guillou A, Sullivan PS, Gift TL, Delaney KP, Chesson H. Estimated Number of Incident HIV Infections in Men Who Have Sex With Men Attributable to Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, Per Gonococcal or Chlamydial Infection, in the United States. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:83-85. [PMID: 36630415 PMCID: PMC10753989 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Using a network model, we simulated transmission of HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia among men who have sex with men to estimate the number of HIV infections that can be attributed to gonorrhea and chlamydia, per gonococcal and chlamydial infection. This metric can inform future modeling and health economic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Samuel M. Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Adrien Le Guillou
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Thomas L. Gift
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Kevin P. Delaney
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Harrell Chesson
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Akselrod H, Byrne M, Lundberg J, Czeresnia JM, Lucar J, Secco A, Levy M, Monroe A, Castel A, Horberg M, Doshi R, Rivasplata H, Squires L, Parenti D, Benator D. Improvements in Virologic Control Among PWH Over Time: Narrowing the Gap Between Those With and Without STIs. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:673-677. [PMID: 35984609 PMCID: PMC10176187 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03802-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Using the incidence of bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) as a surrogate for condomless sexual behavior, we assessed the association between STI and uncontrolled HIV replication among in-care persons with HIV (PWH) enrolled in a longitudinal HIV cohort study in the District of Columbia (the DC Cohort). Although STI occurrence initially correlated with higher HIV viral load (VL), this difference became more attenuated over time (2012-2016). This was true overall and among those with the greatest number of STIs [age 18-34, men who have sex with men (MSM)]. This likely reflects gains in population-wide virologic control through improved antiretroviral therapy and access to care, which helps mitigate the risk of HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Akselrod
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Morgan Byrne
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Jeannette Lundberg
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jonathan Mamber Czeresnia
- Department of Medicine, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jose Lucar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alessandra Secco
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Matt Levy
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
- Westat, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Anne Monroe
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Amanda Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael Horberg
- Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Rupali Doshi
- DC Department of Health, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heather Rivasplata
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Leah Squires
- Department of Psychology, DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David Parenti
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Debra Benator
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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15
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Gopalappa C, Balasubramanian H, Haas PJ. A new mixed agent-based network and compartmental simulation framework for joint modeling of related infectious diseases- application to sexually transmitted infections. Infect Dis Model 2022; 8:84-100. [PMID: 36632177 PMCID: PMC9827035 DOI: 10.1016/j.idm.2022.12.003] [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] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A model that jointly simulates infectious diseases with common modes of transmission can serve as a decision-analytic tool to identify optimal intervention combinations for overall disease prevention. In the United States, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a huge economic burden, with a large fraction of the burden attributed to HIV. Data also show interactions between HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as higher risk of acquisition and progression of co-infections among persons with HIV compared to persons without. However, given the wide range in prevalence and incidence burdens of STIs, current compartmental or agent-based network simulation methods alone are insufficient or computationally burdensome for joint disease modeling. Further, causal factors for higher risk of coinfection could be both behavioral (i.e., compounding effects of individual behaviors, network structures, and care behaviors) and biological (i.e., presence of one disease can biologically increase the risk of another). However, the data on the fraction attributed to each are limited. Methods We present a new mixed agent-based compartmental (MAC) framework for jointly modeling STIs. It uses a combination of a new agent-based evolving network modeling (ABENM) technique for lower-prevalence diseases and compartmental modeling for higher-prevalence diseases. As a demonstration, we applied MAC to simulate lower-prevalence HIV in the United States and a higher-prevalence hypothetical Disease 2, using a range of transmission and progression rates to generate burdens replicative of the wide range of STIs. We simulated sexual transmissions among heterosexual males, heterosexual females, and men who have sex with men (men only and men and women). Setting the biological risk of co-infection to zero, we conducted numerical analyses to evaluate the influence of behavioral factors alone on disease dynamics. Results The contribution of behavioral factors to risk of coinfection was sensitive to disease burden, care access, and population heterogeneity and mixing. The contribution of behavioral factors was generally lower than observed risk of coinfections for the range of hypothetical prevalence studied here, suggesting potential role of biological factors, that should be investigated further specific to an STI. Conclusions The purpose of this study is to present a new simulation technique for jointly modeling infectious diseases that have common modes of transmission but varying epidemiological features. The numerical analysis serves as proof-of-concept for the application to STIs. Interactions between diseases are influenced by behavioral factors, are sensitive to care access and population features, and are likely exacerbated by biological factors. Social and economic conditions are among key drivers of behaviors that increase STI transmission, and thus, structural interventions are a key part of behavioral interventions. Joint modeling of diseases helps comprehensively simulate behavioral and biological factors of disease interactions to evaluate the true impact of common structural interventions on overall disease prevention. The new simulation framework is especially suited to simulate behavior as a function of social determinants, and further, to identify optimal combinations of common structural and disease-specific interventions.
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16
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Assaf RD, Cunningham NJ, Adamson PC, Jann JT, Bolan RK. High proportions of rectal and pharyngeal chlamydia and gonorrhoea cases among cisgender men are missed using current CDC screening recommendations. Sex Transm Infect 2022; 98:586-591. [PMID: 35217590 PMCID: PMC9402804 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2021-055361] [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: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pharyngeal and rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections are often undiagnosed due to their asymptomatic nature. This study aims to determine (1) the prevalence of CT/NG infections by anatomical site among cisgender men; (2) the proportion of missed CT/NG rectal/pharyngeal infections if urogenital testing alone was performed or screening depended on self-reported behaviour alone; and (3) the predictive probability of self-reported behaviours for rectal CT/NG. METHODS This cross-sectional study used electronic health records collected at a sexual health clinic in Los Angeles from 18 November 2018 until 28 February 2020. The included patients were ≥18 years of age cisgender men who received CT/NG testing at least once during the study period. We calculated the proportion of missed pharyngeal/rectal CT/NG infections if only urogenital testing had been done and if testing was based only on self-reported anal sex. Separately, we ran logistic regressions for predictive probability of self-reported anal sex on CT/NG rectal infections. RESULTS Overall, there were 13 476 unique patients with 26 579 visits. The prevalence of any extragenital CT/NG infection was 37.28%. Over 80% rectal/pharyngeal CT cases and over 65% rectal/pharyngeal NG cases would be missed if urogenital testing alone was performed. Likewise, over 35% rectal CT/NG cases would be missed had testing relied on self-reported sexual behaviours alone. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of missed rectal and pharyngeal CT/NG infections is high. Our data from a sexual health clinic lend support to three-site opt-out testing for cisgender men attending a sexual health/Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ+) specialty clinic regardless of their sexual orientation or reported sexual behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Assaf
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Epidemiology, University of California Los Angeles Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Paul C Adamson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Robert K Bolan
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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17
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Jones J, Le Guillou A, Gift TL, Chesson H, Bernstein K, Delaney K, Lyles C, Berruti A, Sullivan PS, Jenness SM. Effect of Screening and Treatment for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia on HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States: A Modeling Analysis. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:669-676. [PMID: 35921635 PMCID: PMC9481699 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous models have estimated the total population attributable fraction of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis (NG/CT) on HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM), but this does not represent realistic intervention effects. We estimated the potential impact of screening for NG/CT on downstream incidence of HIV among MSM. METHODS Using a network model, we estimated the effects of varying coverage levels for sexually transmitted infection screening among different priority populations: all sexually active MSM regardless of HIV serostatus, MSM with multiple recent (past 6 months) sex partners regardless of serostatus, MSM without HIV, and MSM with HIV. Under the assumption that all screening events included a urethral test, we also examined the effect of increasing the proportion of screening events that include rectal screening for NG/CT on HIV incidence. RESULTS Increasing annual NG/CT screening among sexually active MSM by 60% averted 4.9% of HIV infections over a 10-year period (interquartile range, 2.8%-6.8%). More HIV infections were averted when screening was focused on MSM with multiple recent sex partners: 60% coverage among MSM with multiple recent sex partners averted 9.8% of HIV infections (interquartile range, 8.1%-11.6%). Increased sexually transmitted infection screening among MSM without HIV averted more new HIV infections compared with the transmissions averted because of screening MSM with HIV, but fewer NG/CT tests were needed among MSM with HIV to avert a single new HIV infection. CONCLUSIONS Screening of NG/CT among MSM is expected to lead to modest but clinically relevant reductions in HIV incidence among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeb Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Adrien Le Guillou
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Thomas L. Gift
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Harrell Chesson
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Kyle Bernstein
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Kevin Delaney
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Cynthia Lyles
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Andres Berruti
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
| | - Patrick S. Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Samuel M. Jenness
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
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18
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Estimated costs and quality-adjusted life-years lost due to N. gonorrhoeae infections acquired in 2015 in the United States: A modelling study of overall burden and disparities by age, race/ethnicity, and other factors. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2022; 16:100364. [PMID: 36777156 PMCID: PMC9904145 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Disparities in the health and economic burden of gonorrhoea have not been systematically quantified. We estimated population-level health losses and costs associated with gonococcal infection and sequelae in the United States. Methods We used probability-tree models to capture gonorrhoea sequelae and to estimate attributable disease burden in terms of the discounted lifetime costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) lost due to incident infections acquired during 2015 from the healthcare system perspective. Numbers of infections in 2015 were obtained from a published gonorrhoea transmission model. We evaluated population-level disease burden, disaggregated by sex, age, race/ethnicity, and for men who have sex with men (MSM). We conducted a multivariate sensitivity analysis for key parameters. Findings Discounted lifetime QALYs lost per incident gonococcal infection were estimated as 0.093 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 0.022-0.22) for women, 0.0020 (0.0015-0.0024) for heterosexual men, and 0.0015 (0.00070-0.0021) for MSM. Discounted lifetime costs per incident infection were USD 261 (109-480), 169 (88-263), and 133 (50-239), respectively. At the population level, total discounted lifetime QALYs lost due to infections acquired during 2015 were 53,293 (12,326-125,366) for women, 621 (430-872) for heterosexual men, and 1,078 (427-1,870) for MSM. Total discounted lifetime costs were USD 150 million (64-277 million), 54 million (25-92 million), and 97 million (34-197 million), respectively. The highest total burden of both QALYs and costs at the population-level was observed in Non-Hispanic Black women, and highest burden per 1,000 person-years was identified in MSM among men and American Indian/Alaska Native among women. Interpretation Gonorrhoea causes substantial health losses and costs in the United States. These results can inform planning and prioritization of prevention services. Funding Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Charles A. King Trust.
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Hechter RC, Bruxvoort KJ, Zhou H, Towner WJ, Contreras R, Schumacher CM, Grant DL, Jones J. Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Men and Transgender Women Using HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in a Large Integrated Health System-A Cohort Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:1-8. [PMID: 35499561 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common in people using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We examined risk and factors associated with STIs in a cohort of PrEP users in an integrated health system in the United States. SETTING The Kaiser Permanente Southern California is a large integrated health system that provides comprehensive medical services to approximately 4.7 million demographically diverse members. METHODS We identified men and transgender women initiating PrEP between January 1, 2014, and June 1, 2018, and followed through December 31, 2018. Demographic and clinical factors potentially associated with the risk of bacterial STIs during PrEP use were evaluated using Poisson regression models. RESULTS Among 5042 individuals tested for STIs with 7198 person-years of follow-up, 1709 (33.9%) had at least one new STI. The estimated incidence of STIs was 48.3 per 100 person-years, and the most common STI was rectal chlamydia. Most repeat STIs (61.4%) occurred <180 days apart. In a multivariable analysis, an history of STIs in the prior 6 months through 7 days after the PrEP initiation was the most prominent risk factor of STIs during PrEP use (adjusted risk ratio: 1.78, 95% confidence intervals: 1.65 to 1.93). Other risk factors included younger age (<35 years), being Hispanic, and having a history of alcohol use disorder or drug use disorder. CONCLUSIONS Quarterly STI testing and targeted intervention to mitigate STI risk are warranted for young and racial minority PrEP users, particularly for those with prior history of STIs and substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rulin C Hechter
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, CA
| | - Katia J Bruxvoort
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
- Department of Health Systems Science, Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, Pasadena, CA
| | - William J Towner
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Richard Contreras
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Christina M Schumacher
- Department of Pediatrics, Center for Child and Community Health Research, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; and
| | - Deborah L Grant
- Department of Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA
| | - Joyce Jones
- Division of Infectious Diseases, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Dionne-Odom J, Workowski K, Perlowski C, Taylor SN, Mayer KH, McNeil CJ, Hamill MM, Dombrowski JC, Batteiger TA, Sena AC, Wiesenfeld HC, Newman L, Hook EW. Coinfection With Chlamydial and Gonorrheal Infection Among US Adults With Early Syphilis. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:e87-e89. [PMID: 35067599 PMCID: PMC9283199 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Among 865 adults with early syphilis considered for a multicenter treatment trial, 234 (27%) were excluded before enrollment because of bacterial sexually transmitted infection coinfection. Coinfection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae (29%), Chlamydia trachomatis (22%), or both (23%) was common. Study findings highlight the need for comprehensive bacterial sexually transmitted infection screening in patients with syphilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie Dionne-Odom
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | | | | | - Stephanie N Taylor
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, and Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Candice J McNeil
- Department of Medicine, Section on Infectious Diseases, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | | | - Julia C Dombrowski
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Teresa A Batteiger
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Arlene C Sena
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Harold C Wiesenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Lori Newman
- Enteric and Sexually Transmitted Infections Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Edward W Hook
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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Geba M, Powers S, Williams B, Dort KR, Rogawski McQuade ET, McManus KA. A Missed Opportunity: Extragenital Screening for Gonorrhea and Chlamydia Sexually Transmitted Infections in People with HIV in a Southeastern Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Clinic Setting. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac322. [PMID: 35899288 PMCID: PMC9310267 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Guidelines recommend annual screening for gonorrhea/chlamydia in sexually active people with HIV at multiple sites (urogenital, oropharyngeal, rectal). In the first year of multisite screening at our Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program clinic, we studied (1) sexual history documentation rate, (2) sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening rate, (3) characteristics associated with STIs, (4) the percentage of extragenital STIs that would have been missed without multisite screening.
Methods
Participants were ≥14 years old with ≥1 in-person medical visit at our clinic in 2019. Descriptive analyses were performed, and adjusting for number of sites tested, a log-binomial model was used to estimate the association between characteristics and STI diagnosis in men.
Results
In this cohort (n = 857), 21% had no sexual history recorded. Almost all STI diagnoses were among males (99.3%). 68% (253/375) received appropriate urogenital testing, 63% (85/134) received appropriate oropharyngeal testing, and 69% (72/105) received appropriate rectal testing. In male participants with ≥1 STI test (n = 347), Hispanic ethnicity and detectable HIV viral load were associated with an STI diagnosis. Of those diagnosed with an STI who had multisite testing, 96% (n = 25/26) were positive only at an extragenital site.
Conclusions
Screening rates were similar across all anatomical sites indicating no obvious bias against extragenital testing. In males, STIs were more frequently diagnosed in people who identify as Hispanic and those with detectable viral loads which may indicate more condomless sex in these populations. Based on infections detected exclusively at extragenital sites, our clinic likely underdiagnosed STIs prior to implementation of multisite screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Geba
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Samuel Powers
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Brooke Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Kathryn R Dort
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Elizabeth T Rogawski McQuade
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
- Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
| | - Kathleen A McManus
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia , Charlottesville, VA , USA
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22
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Sharma A, Gandhi M, Sallabank G, Merrill L, Stephenson R. Study Evaluating Self-Collected Specimen Return for HIV, Bacterial STI, and Potential Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Adherence Testing Among Sexual Minority Men in the United States. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221115591. [PMID: 35950608 PMCID: PMC9380227 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221115591] [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: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Web-based HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention studies are
increasingly requesting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men
(GBMSM) to return self-collected specimens for laboratory processing. Some
studies have solicited self-collected extragenital swabs for gonorrhea and
chlamydia testing, but to date, none have solicited self-collected hair samples
for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence testing. Project Caboodle! offered
100 racially/ethnically diverse GBMSM aged 18 to 34 years residing across the
United States a choice to self-collect at home and return by mail any of the
following: a finger-stick blood sample (for HIV testing), a pharyngeal swab, a
rectal swab and a urine specimen (for gonorrhea and chlamydia testing), and a
hair sample (to visually assess its adequacy for PrEP drug level testing).
Despite not incentivizing specimen return, 51% mailed back at least one type of
specimen within 6 weeks (1% returned three specimens, 11% returned four
specimens and 39% returned all five specimens). The majority of returned
specimens were adequate for laboratory processing. Significantly more
participants without a college education (p = .0003) and those
who were working full-time or part-time (p = .0070) did not
return any specimens. In addition, lower levels of HIV-related knowledge
(p = .0390), STI-related knowledge (p =
.0162), concern about contracting HIV (p = .0484), and concern
about contracting STIs (p = .0108) were observed among
participants who did not return any specimens. Self-collection of specimens
holds promise as a remote monitoring strategy that could supplement testing in
clinical settings, but a better understanding of why some GBMSM may choose to
fully, partially, or not engage in this approach is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Sharma
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Monica Gandhi
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gregory Sallabank
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Leland Merrill
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rob Stephenson
- Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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23
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Menza TW, Berry SA, Dombrowski J, Cachay E, Crane HM, Kitahata MM, Mayer KH. Anatomic site-specific gonorrhea and chlamydia testing and incidence among people with HIV engaged in care at four United States clinical centers, 2014-2018. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac298. [PMID: 35873303 PMCID: PMC9301651 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
The incidence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is increasing in the United States; however, there are limited data on anatomic site-specific GC/CT among people with HIV (PWH).
Methods
We reviewed records of all PWH in care between January 1, 2014 and November 16, 2018 at four sites in the CFAR Network of Integrated Clinical Systems Cohort (CNICS; N = 8455). We calculated anatomic site-specific GC/CT testing and incidence rates and used Cox proportional hazards models modified for recurrent events to examine sociodemographic and clinical predictors of GC/CT testing and incidence at urogenital, rectal, and pharyngeal sites. We also calculated site-specific number needed to test (NNT) to detect a positive GC/CT test.
Results
Of 8455 PWH, 2460 (29.1%) had at least yearly GC/CT testing at any anatomic site. The rates of urogenital, rectal, and pharyngeal GC were 1.7 (95%CI:1.6, 1.9), 3.2 (95%CI:3.0, 3.5), and 2.7 (95%CI:2.5, 2.9) infections per 100 person-years, respectively. The rates of urogenital, rectal, and pharyngeal CT were 1.9 (95%CI:1.7, 2.1), 4.3 (95%CI:4.0, 4.5), and 0.9 (95%CI:0.8, 1.0) infections per 100 person-years, respectively. PWH 16-39 years old experienced greater GC/CT rates at all anatomic sites while MSM experienced greater rates of extragenital infections. NNTs for urogenital, rectal, and pharyngeal GC/CT were 20 (95%CI:19, 21), 5 (95%CI:5, 5), and 9 (95%CI:8, 9), respectively.
Conclusion
Many PWH are not tested annually for GC/CT and rates of GC/CT infection, particularly rates of extragenital infections, are high. We identified groups of PWH who may benefit from increased site-specific GC/CT testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy W Menza
- Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR , USA
- Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, OR , USA
| | | | | | - Edward Cachay
- University of California – San Diego School of Medicine , San Diego, CA , USA
| | - Heidi M Crane
- University of Washington School of Medicine , Seattle, WA , USA
| | - Mari M Kitahata
- University of Washington School of Medicine , Seattle, WA , USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Harvard Medical School , Boston, MA , USA
- Fenway Health , Boston, MA , USA
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24
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Byrne M, Akselrod H, Monroe AK, Horberg M, Lucar J, Castel AD, Denyer R, Doshi R, Secco A, Squires L, Schroeter S, Benator D. Identifying geographic areas of Washington DC with increased potential for sexual HIV transmission among People with HIV with STIs and concurrent elevated HIV RNA: Data from the DC Cohort. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac139. [PMID: 35450084 PMCID: PMC9017371 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable) campaign advances the goal of ending the HIV epidemic by promoting durable viral suppression and therefore reducing sexual transmission. We used geospatial analysis to assess the potential for sexual HIV transmission by ZIP code of residence in the District of Columbia (DC) using data from DC Cohort Longitudinal HIV Study (DC Cohort), a city-wide cohort of persons with HIV (PWH).
Methods
DC Cohort participants ages ≥13 were included in the study period between April 1, 2016 and March 31, 2018. Potential for sexual HIV transmission was defined as the proportion of participants with incident sexually transmitted infection (STI - gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis) and with HIV RNA ≥200 copies/mL from 9 months prior to 3 months after STI diagnosis. We performed geographic information system (GIS) analysis to determine the ZIP codes with the highest potential for sexual HIV transmission.
Results
Of 3,467 participants, 367 (10.6%) had at least one incident STI, with 89.4% residing in 11 of the 20 residential ZIP codes in DC. Of the 367 participants with an incident STI, at least one HIV RNA was available for 348 (94.8%). 97 (27.9%) of individuals with an incident STI had HIV RNA ≥200 copies/ml in the defined time window. Of these 97, 66 (68.0%) resided in 5 of the 20 DC ZIP codes.
Conclusions
In DC, 5 ZIP codes of residence accounted for the majority of the estimated potential for HIV transmission among participants in the DC Cohort. These results support focused neighborhood-level interventions to help end the HIV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Byrne
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Hana Akselrod
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Anne K Monroe
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael Horberg
- Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Jose Lucar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Amanda D Castel
- Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rachel Denyer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rupali Doshi
- DC Department of Health, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Administration, Washington, DC ,USA
| | | | - Leah Squires
- Department of Psychology, DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Stefanie Schroeter
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Debra Benator
- Division of Infectious Diseases, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
- Infectious Diseases Section, DC Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
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25
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Where is Rural? Examining the Effect of Rural Classification Method on Disparities in HIV and STI Testing Uptake Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2897-2906. [PMID: 35244818 PMCID: PMC8895072 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03635-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) account for the majority of new HIV diagnoses in the United States, including in rural areas, and MSM in rural areas face additional barriers to accessing culturally competent and appropriate HIV/STI preventive care. Multiple methods have been used to classify areas in the United States as rural, but none of these methods is specifically designed to classify areas with respect to access to culturally competent care for MSM. Using data from a large, cross-sectional study of MSM we assessed the effect of using three different methods for classifying rurality on measurements of sexual behavior and HIV/STI testing uptake. We found that the prevalence of condomless anal sex and PrEP eligibility was similar across levels of rurality regardless of the method of classification used. Across all measures of rurality, rural MSM were less likely to have tested for HIV and STIs than non-rural MSM. The disparity in HIV/STI testing persisted even in the most inclusive measure of rurality used, indicating that HIV/STI prevention studies should consider using an inclusive approach to identifying and defining rurality.
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26
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Ikeuchi K, Okushin K, Saito M, Adachi E, Tsutsumi T, Takura T, Yotsuyanagi H. Prevalence of HIV infection among non-elderly individuals with hepatitis C in Japan: a population-based cohort study using a health insurance claim data. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:167. [PMID: 35189825 PMCID: PMC8862380 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been mainly transmitted through injection drug use, but recently, sexual transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM), which is also a major route of HIV transmission, is increasing. However, the prevalence of HIV and the incidence of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among HCV patients have been rarely reported. Methods Using a healthcare insurance claim data of employees and their dependents covering seven-million people in Japan, we evaluated HIV prevalence among HCV patients aged 20–59 years. Hemophilia patients were excluded. HIV and HCV were defined by registered diagnoses and receiving viral RNA testing. The time course of HCV and HIV infections was analyzed. Incidences of syphilis, amebiasis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B were assessed. Results From April 2012 to August 2018, 6,422 HCV patients were identified. HIV prevalence was 0.48% (31/6422, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 0.33–0.68%). HIV was diagnosed after HCV in 3.2% (1/31), before HCV in 58.1% (18/31), and concurrently in 38.7% (12/31). Compared with HCV patients without HIV infection, HCV/HIV co-infected patients were younger (median age, 37 vs 51 years, p < 0.001), more likely to be male (30/31 [96.8%] vs 3059/6391 [47.9%], p < 0.001), more likely to have other STIs (38.7% [12/31] vs 0.9% [56/6391], p < 0.001), and live in Tokyo, the most populous capital city in Japan (67.7% [21/31] vs 11.6% [742/6391], p < 0.001). In Tokyo, the HIV prevalence among 20–30 s male with HCV was 18.6% (13/70; 95% CI, 10.3–29.7%). Conclusions HIV prevalence among young male HCV patients was very high in Tokyo. HCV/HIV co-infected patients were more likely to acquire HIV before HCV, which is a known feature of MSM. They also had a higher incidence of STIs. These findings suggest that HCV might be prevalent as an STI among MSM particularly in Tokyo. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07152-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiko Ikeuchi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Kazuya Okushin
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan. .,Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Makoto Saito
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Eisuke Adachi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Takeya Tsutsumi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Takura
- Department of Healthcare Economics and Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yotsuyanagi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Applied Immunology, IMSUT Hospital of The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Advanced Clinical Research Center, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan
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27
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Sullivan SP, Sullivan PS, Stephenson R. Acceptability and Feasibility of a Telehealth Intervention for STI Testing Among Male Couples. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:4029-4043. [PMID: 33507455 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03173-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Partnered gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) are less likely to engage in HIV and STI testing. We enrolled 51 male couples from a larger study of home HIV testing to test the feasibility of a dyadic home STI testing intervention delivered via telehealth, consisting of two telehealth sessions delivered via video-chat. In the first session, an interventionist demonstrated the specimen collection kits. In the second session, an interventionist delivered the STI results. Participants reported very high levels of acceptability of the intervention: 92% reported the telehealth calls quality as very good, 99% reported the sample collection instructions were clear, and 96% of respondents returned specimens for collection. 9% of participants tested positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea, and all were linked to care. The intervention has the potential to surmount economic, physical and stigma-related barriers to attending clinics for STI testing, but these results need to be further tested in more diverse samples of male couples.
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28
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Stenger MR, Pathela P, Schumacher C, Burghardt N, Amiya R, Madera R, Nguyen TQ, Torrone E. Trends in HIV prevalence by self-report among MSM diagnosed and reported with gonorrhea in six United States jurisdictions from 2010 to 2019. AIDS 2021; 35:2523-2530. [PMID: 34510114 PMCID: PMC10750803 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV co-infection among persons diagnosed with gonorrhea is not well characterized. Trends in HIV prevalence among persons diagnosed with gonorrhea may have significant implications for HIV prevention interventions, especially for MSM. MSM are increasingly and disproportionately represented among incident gonorrhea cases reported in a multistate sentinel surveillance network. Using data from this network, we estimated HIV prevalence among MSM by self-report and explored trends in co-infection by key demographics. DESIGN Observational study using enhanced surveillance data. METHODS Six geographically diverse jurisdictions in the STD Surveillance Network (SSuN) 2010-2019 randomly sampled laboratory-confirmed gonorrhea cases. Enhanced investigations on sampled cases included patient interviews eliciting demographic, behavioral and HIV testing history. These data were weighted to adjust for study design and nonresponse to estimate trends in HIV prevalence. RESULTS Of 653 522 reported cases, 28 979 were sampled and investigated. The proportion of cases reporting living with diagnosed HIV at the time of their gonorrhea diagnosis increased 61% across the study period from 6.6% in 2010 to 10.8% in 2019. The observed increase in HIV prevalence is concurrent with an increase in the proportion of gonorrhea cases attributable to MSM. HIV prevalence among MSM decreased in two jurisdictions and increasing trends were observed among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic MSM. HIV prevalence decreased among non-Hispanic white MSM, MSM under 20 and those 40 years of age or older. CONCLUSION Diagnosis with gonorrhea, especially among MSM, should be a sentinel event triggering screening for HIV, referral to high-impact HIV prevention interventions or to HIV primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Richard Stenger
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Preeti Pathela
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, New York, New York
| | - Christina Schumacher
- Baltimore City Health Department & Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nicole Burghardt
- California Department of Public Health, STD Control Branch, Richmond, California
| | - Rachel Amiya
- Washington State Department of Health, Olympia, Washington
| | - Robbie Madera
- Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Trang Q. Nguyen
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Elizabeth Torrone
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
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29
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Rectal specimen self-collection for chlamydia and gonorrhea screening: a cross-sectional feasibility study at a community health center. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2021; 7:208. [PMID: 34782013 PMCID: PMC8591317 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-021-00928-7] [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: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for extra-genital sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Without extra-genital screening, many chlamydia and gonorrhea infections would be missed among MSM. Yet, many barriers exist to extra-genital testing, and, in particular, to rectal collection. Self-collection increases screening and detection of asymptomatic chlamydia and gonorrhea among at-risk MSM and transgender women. This feasibility study assessed use of rectal self-collection and its acceptance among patients and primary care providers (PCPs) at a large, general practice community health center. The primary objective of this project was to assess the feasibility of including rectal self-collection as part of an implementation study looking to embed an STI care program in a safety-net primary care setting that would shift routine screening tasks to non-provider clinical team members such as medical assistants and nurses. Methods Three PCPs identified and offered rectal self-collection to their MSM and transgender female patients who were due for routine or risk-based STI screening. For those patients who elected to participate in the study, the PCP’s medical assistant (MA) reviewed the self-collection instructions with them as part of their routine preventive care duties, and patients collected their own sample. Patients and PCPs completed brief cross-sectional surveys assessing the self-collection process. Results Of 1191 patients with sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data on file who were seen for a medical visit by one of the three PCPs, 87 (7.3%) identified as MSM or transgender female. Seventy-five were due for rectal screening, of whom 33 (44%) were offered and completed rectal self-collection. Survey results indicated that self-collection was acceptable to and preferred over clinician-collection by both PCPs and patients. Conclusions This study demonstrated that rectal self-collection is feasible as part of STI screening in a high-volume primary care setting, and can be administered as part of the clinical tasks that MAs routinely conduct. The overall acceptance by both PCPs and patients will allow the inclusion of rectal self-collection in an implementation study looking to increase STI screening at a large community health center by facilitating MA-led collection during medical provider visits and by establishing standalone nurse-led STI visits.
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30
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Mwaniki SW, Mugo PM, Palanee-Phillips T. Project BESPOKE (Integrated Bio-Behavioral Assessment of HIV and STI Among Young Tertiary Student Men Who Have Sex With Men in Nairobi, Kenya): A Respondent-Driven Sampling Survey Protocol. Front Public Health 2021; 9:619694. [PMID: 34708012 PMCID: PMC8542710 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.619694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Globally, men who have sex with men (MSM) are a key population for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Among MSM, young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI). However, there is a dearth of research and interventions targeting HIV/STI prevention among YMSM. In Kenya, there is paucity of knowledge on the burden of HIV/STI and related factors among YMSM, including tertiary student men who have sex with men (TSMSM). The barriers TSMSM experience in accessing and utilizing health services in their learning institutions have seldom been explored. In the context of healthcare providers (HCP) working in tertiary institutions, little is known about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward providing services to TSMSM. Methods: The aims of the study are to: estimate prevalence and correlates of HIV/STI among TSMSM; estimate population size of TSMSM; explore experiences of TSMSM with access and utilization of health services; and assess HCP knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in provision of services to TSMSM. A mixed-methods approach will be used in three phases: Phase I-formative qualitative research will be conducted to understand TSMSM social networks, select "seeds", and explore strategies for implementing a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey. Interviews will be conducted with at least three staff who work in community based/non-governmental organizations (CBO/NGO) that serve MSM and at least 10 TSMSM. Phase II-an integrated bio-behavioral assessment (IBBA) will be conducted, where 200 TSMSM recruited by RDS will be offered HIV/STI testing, complete a behavioral survey, and provide information for population size estimation (PSE). Phase III-in-depth interviews will be held with 20 TSMSM selected from 200 TSMSM in phase II, to explore their experiences with access and utilization of healthcare services. Focus group discussions (FGD) will be conducted with HCP working in tertiary institutions to assess their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practices in providing services to TSMSM. Data collection started in September 2020 and is expected to end by September 2021. Discussion: Findings from this study will be useful in informing HIV/STI prevention programming for TSMSM, by policy makers such the Kenyan ministries of health and education, tertiary education institutions, service providers, advocacy groups, and other interested stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Waweru Mwaniki
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University Health Services, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter Mwangi Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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31
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Abstract
Gonorrhea and chlamydia rates have risen to record-high levels in the United States over the past decade. Because these infections are often asymptomatic, effective clinical management relies on screening of asymptomatic patients, particularly women younger than 25 years and men who have sex with men. If undetected and untreated, gonorrhea and chlamydia can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain and can facilitate HIV acquisition and transmission. Primary care providers need to be aware of recent changes in recommended treatments for both infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Dombrowski
- University of Washington and Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, Washington (J.C.D.)
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32
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Grubb J, Lopez D, Mohan B, Matta J. Network centrality for the identification of biomarkers in respondent-driven sampling datasets. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256601. [PMID: 34428228 PMCID: PMC8384166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Networks science techniques are frequently used to provide meaningful insights into the populations underlying medical and social data. This paper examines SATHCAP, a dataset related to HIV and drug use in three US cities. In particular, we use network measures such as betweenness centrality, closeness centrality, and eigenvector centrality to find central, important nodes in a network derived from SATHCAP data. We evaluate the attributes of these important nodes and create an exceptionality score based on the number of nodes that share a particular attribute. This score, along with the underlying network itself, is used to reveal insight into the attributes of groups that can be effectively targeted to slow the spread of disease. Our research confirms a known connection between homelessness and HIV, as well as drug abuse and HIV, and shows support for the theory that individuals without easy access to transportation are more likely to be central to the spread of HIV in urban, high risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Grubb
- Computer Science Department, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, United States of America
| | - Derek Lopez
- Computer Science Department, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, United States of America
| | - Bhuvaneshwar Mohan
- Computer Science Department, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, United States of America
| | - John Matta
- Computer Science Department, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, United States of America
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Trunfio M, Scabini S, Mornese Pinna S, Rugge W, Alcantarini C, Pirriatore V, Di Perri G, Bonora S, Castelnuovo B, Calcagno A. The Manifesto of Pharmacoenosis: Merging HIV Pharmacology into Pathocoenosis and Syndemics in Developing Countries. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9081648. [PMID: 34442727 PMCID: PMC8399770 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9081648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathocoenosis and syndemics theories have emerged in the last decades meeting the frequent need of better understanding interconnections and reciprocal influences that coexistent communicable and non-communicable diseases play in a specific population. Nevertheless, the attention to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics interactions of co-administered drugs for co-present diseases is to date limitedly paid to alert against detrimental pharmacological combos. Low and middle-income countries are plagued by the highest burden of HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and helminthiasis, and they are experiencing an alarming rise in non-communicable disorders. In these settings, co-infections and comorbidities are common, but no tailored prescribing nor clinical trials are used to assess and exploit existing opportunities for the simultaneous and potentially synergistic treatment of intertwined diseases. Pharmacoenosis is the set of interactions that take place within a host as well as within a population due to the compresence of two or more diseases and their respective treatments. This framework should pilot integrated health programmes and routine clinical practice to face drug–drug interaction issues, avoiding negative co-administrations but also exploiting potential favourable ones to make the best out of the worst situations; still, to date, guiding data on the latter possibility is limited. Therefore, in this narrative review, we have briefly described both detrimental and favourable physiopathological interactions between HIV and other common co-occurring pathologies (malaria, tuberculosis, helminths, and cardiovascular disorders), and we have presented examples of advantageous potential pharmacological interactions among the drugs prescribed for these diseases from a pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenetics standpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Trunfio
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-439-3884
| | - Silvia Scabini
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Città della Salute e della Scienza, 10150 Torino, Italy; (S.S.); (S.M.P.)
| | - Simone Mornese Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Torino, Città della Salute e della Scienza, 10150 Torino, Italy; (S.S.); (S.M.P.)
| | - Walter Rugge
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Chiara Alcantarini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Veronica Pirriatore
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Giovanni Di Perri
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Stefano Bonora
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
| | - Barbara Castelnuovo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala 22418, Uganda;
| | - Andrea Calcagno
- Department of Medical Sciences, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Torino, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, 10149 Torino, Italy; (W.R.); (C.A.); (V.P.); (G.D.P.); (S.B.); (A.C.)
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Workowski KA, Bachmann LH, Chan PA, Johnston CM, Muzny CA, Park I, Reno H, Zenilman JM, Bolan GA. Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep 2021; 70:1-187. [PMID: 34292926 PMCID: PMC8344968 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr7004a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 697] [Impact Index Per Article: 232.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
These guidelines for the treatment of persons who have or are at risk for
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were updated by CDC after consultation
with professionals knowledgeable in the field of STIs who met in Atlanta,
Georgia, June 11–14, 2019. The information in this report updates the
2015 guidelines. These guidelines discuss 1) updated recommendations for
treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis,
and Trichomonas vaginalis; 2) addition of
metronidazole to the recommended treatment regimen for pelvic inflammatory
disease; 3) alternative treatment options for bacterial vaginosis; 4) management
of Mycoplasma genitalium; 5) human papillomavirus vaccine
recommendations and counseling messages; 6) expanded risk factors for syphilis
testing among pregnant women; 7) one-time testing for hepatitis C infection; 8)
evaluation of men who have sex with men after sexual assault; and 9) two-step
testing for serologic diagnosis of genital herpes simplex virus. Physicians and
other health care providers can use these guidelines to assist in prevention and
treatment of STIs.
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Strathdee SA, Bristow CC, Gaines T, Shoptaw S. Collateral Damage: A Narrative Review on Epidemics of Substance Use Disorders and Their Relationships to Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United States. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:466-473. [PMID: 33315749 PMCID: PMC8184578 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Associations between substance use disorders and outbreaks of HIV and acute viral hepatitis have received considerable attention, but less research has focused on links between substance use disorders and sexually transmitted infections, apart from alcohol misuse. This narrative review describes the history of this public health crisis in the United States and direct and indirect effects opioids and specific stimulants have on high-risk sexual behaviors. We also review the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections associated with opioids and stimulants in the United States and discuss opportunities for integrated interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffanie Ann Strathdee
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Claire C Bristow
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Tommi Gaines
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Steven Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
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Bristow CC, Espinosa da Silva C, Vera AH, Gonzalez-Fagoaga JE, Rangel G, Pines HA. Prevalence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections and coinfection with HIV among men who have sex with men and transgender women in Tijuana, Mexico. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:751-757. [PMID: 33530892 PMCID: PMC8154699 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420987757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We estimated the prevalence of syphilis and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections, as well as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection among cisgender men who have sex with cisgender men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) in Tijuana, Mexico. MSM and TW (N = 212) recruited via respondent-driven and venue-based sampling for HIV testing underwent sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and completed interviewer-administered surveys in this study (2017-2018). Treponemal rapid tests were used at the point-of-care with positives undergoing confirmatory testing following the reverse syphilis-testing algorithm. Nucleic acid amplification testing of urine and swabs (rectal and pharyngeal) was used to detect CT/NG at three anatomic sites. Chi-squared tests were used to compare STI prevalence by HIV status. Sexually transmitted infection prevalence was 39.6% overall but higher for newly diagnosed HIV-positive (55.7%; N = 88) than HIV-negative (28.2%; N = 124) participants (p-value < 0.0001). Among newly diagnosed HIV-positive participants, the prevalence of syphilis was 35.2% (31/88), CT infection was 27.3% (24/88; nine urethral; 16 rectal; four pharyngeal), and NG infection was 26.1% (23/88; six urethral; 19 rectal; nine pharyngeal). Among HIV-negative participants, the prevalence of syphilis was 12.1% (15/124), CT infection was 13.7% (17/124; seven urethral; nine rectal; two pharyngeal), and NG infection was 9.7% (12/124; three urethral; seven rectal; seven pharyngeal). Over 60% of all CT (25/41) and NG (26/35) infections in the full sample occurred extragenitally in the absence of urethral infections, and over 80% of rectal (30/37) and pharyngeal (16/18) infections were asymptomatic. The high prevalence of syphilis, CT, and NG infections among MSM and TW in Tijuana suggests STI screening that includes extragenital tests, particularly at HIV diagnosis, may help curb HIV/STI transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire C Bristow
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, 8784University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Espinosa da Silva
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, 8784University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alicia H Vera
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Xochicalco, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Jesus E Gonzalez-Fagoaga
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Xochicalco, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
- US-Mexico Border Health Commission, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Gudelia Rangel
- US-Mexico Border Health Commission, Baja California, Mexico
- Department of Population Studies, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Heather A Pines
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, 8784University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
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A Secondary Mixed Methods Analysis of a Pay-it-Forward Gonorrhea/Chlamydia Testing Program Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:395-401. [PMID: 32149952 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonorrhea and chlamydia are common among Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM), but testing rates are low. We developed a pay-it-forward program where men receive a free gonorrhea/chlamydia test and can then donate toward future participants' tests. This study aims to investigate drivers of testing uptake and donation using a mixed methods approach. METHODS We used a sequential explanatory design to explore drivers of testing uptake and donation unique to pay-it-forward through a quantitative cross-sectional survey and a qualitative thematic analysis of semistructured interviews. We collected data on sociodemographics and perceived benefits of pay-it-forward among men offered the pay-it-forward interventionand analyzed testing uptake and donations using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. We then conducted 30 semistructured interviews with men and coded interview data to identify themes. RESULTS Three hundred and one MSM were offered pay-it-forward and 55% (165/301) received gonorrhea/chlamydia testing. Ninety-one percent (150 of 165) donated any amount with a mean of 58.31 ± 53.39 RMB (US $8.61 ± 7.88), or 39% of the standard price of gonorrhea/chlamydia testing. Getting tested was not associated with income, but donations were higher in the highest income bracket (adjusted odds ratio, 7.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.61-31.52). Fifty-eight percent (94 of 162) selected "more MSM can get tested," and 54% (88 of 162) selected "I can help someone else" as benefits of pay-it-forward. Qualitative themes for drivers of testing and donation included flexible pricing, generosity and reciprocity, and MSM community identity. CONCLUSIONS Quantitative and qualitative results suggest that this pay-it-forward program may increase gonorrhea/chlamydia testing by reducing cost barriers, leveraging generosity and reciprocity, and mobilizing community altruism.
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Munson E, Reynoso A, Pass M, Buehler K, Ryan D, Clifford A, Morgan E, Mustanski B. Comprehensive Molecular Screening in a Cohort of Young Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women: Effect of Additive Rectal Specimen Source Collection and Analyte Testing. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 47:748-753. [PMID: 33045163 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study's purposes were to characterize detection rates of several sexually transmitted infection (STI) agents and describe the effect additional specimen source and analyte screening has on STI detection within a cohort of young men who have sex with men and transgender women. METHODS Within a 16-month interval, 1966 encounters involved dual urine and rectal swab submissions assessed by commercial transcription-mediated amplification-based assays for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and by off-label transcription-mediated amplification-based Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma genitalium testing. Identification of STI carriers used algorithms involving Food and Drug Administration-cleared screening methods, laboratory-modified testing for extraurogenital C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae, and laboratory-developed tests for T. vaginalis and M. genitalium. RESULTS Food and Drug Administration-indicated urine C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae screening revealed 39 encounters (2.0%) yielding one or both agents. Via C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae screening that included rectal swab analysis, 264 encounters (13.4%) yielded evidence of either (140 C. trachomatis, 88 N. gonorrhoeae) or both (36 participants) infections. Detection rates for C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae were 1.4% and 0.6% for urine screening and 8.2% and 6.2% for rectal screening, respectively. Off-label screening identified 413 additional encounters with STI (5 T. vaginalis, 396 M. genitalium, 12 with both). Of these identifications, 82.1% were generated from analysis of rectal swabs (4 participants with T. vaginalis, 323 participants with M. genitalium, 12 with both). Overall detection rates of T. vaginalis (0.2% urine, 1.3% rectal) and M. genitalium (9.1% urine, 21.5% rectal) were variable. CONCLUSIONS Additive analyte testing, including extraurogenital collections, contributes to comprehensive STI screening within a high-risk demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Munson
- From the College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Alyssa Reynoso
- From the College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Morena Pass
- From the College of Health Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Kathleen Buehler
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Daniel Ryan
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Antonia Clifford
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Ethan Morgan
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Northwestern University Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Chicago, IL
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Chesson HW, Spicknall IH, Bingham A, Brisson M, Eppink ST, Farnham PG, Kreisel KM, Kumar S, Laprise JF, Peterman TA, Roberts H, Gift TL. The Estimated Direct Lifetime Medical Costs of Sexually Transmitted Infections Acquired in the United States in 2018. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:215-221. [PMID: 33492093 PMCID: PMC10684254 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We estimated the lifetime medical costs attributable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) acquired in 2018, including sexually acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). METHODS We estimated the lifetime medical costs of infections acquired in 2018 in the United States for 8 STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B, and HIV. We limited our analysis to lifetime medical costs incurred for treatment of STIs and for treatment of related sequelae; we did not include other costs, such as STI prevention. For each STI, except HPV, we calculated the lifetime medical cost by multiplying the estimated number of incident infections in 2018 by the estimated lifetime cost per infection. For HPV, we calculated the lifetime cost based on the projected lifetime incidence of health outcomes attributed to HPV infections acquired in 2018. Future costs were discounted at 3% annually. RESULTS Incident STIs in 2018 imposed an estimated $15.9 billion (25th-75th percentile: $14.9-16.9 billion) in discounted, lifetime direct medical costs (2019 US dollars). Most of this cost was due to sexually acquired HIV ($13.7 billion) and HPV ($0.8 billion). STIs in women accounted for about one fourth of the cost of incident STIs when including HIV, but about three fourths when excluding HIV. STIs among 15- to 24-year-olds accounted for $4.2 billion (26%) of the cost of incident STIs. CONCLUSIONS Incident STIs continue to impose a considerable lifetime medical cost burden in the United States. These results can inform health economic analyses to promote the use of cost-effective STI prevention interventions to reduce this burden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Adrienna Bingham
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | - Paul G Farnham
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | | | - Henry Roberts
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Chesson H, Song R, Bingham A, Farnham PG. The Estimated Number and Lifetime Medical Cost of HIV Infections Attributable to Sexually Transmitted Infections Acquired in the United States in 2018: A Compilation of Published Modeling Results. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:292-298. [PMID: 33492098 PMCID: PMC10676007 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to estimate the number and lifetime medical cost of HIV infections attributable to incident sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States in 2018. METHODS We combined data from published models regarding the number or percentage of HIV infections attributable to STIs with updated estimates of the lifetime medical cost per HIV infection. We used 2 distinct calculation methods. Our first calculation used recent estimates of the percentage of HIV infections in men who have sex with men (MSM) attributable to gonorrhea and chlamydia. Our second calculation, based on older studies, used estimates of the expected number of STI-attributable HIV infections per new STI infection, for gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. RESULTS Our first calculation method suggested that 2489 (25th-75th percentiles, 1895-3000) HIV infections in 2018 among MSM could be attributed to gonorrhea and chlamydia, at an estimated lifetime medical cost of $1.05 billion (25th-75th percentiles, $0.79-$1.26 billion). Our second calculation method suggested that 2349 (25th-75th percentiles, 1948-2744) HIV infections in the general population (including MSM) could be attributed to chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis acquired in 2018, at an estimated lifetime medical cost of $0.99 billion (25th-75th percentiles, $0.80-$1.16 billion). CONCLUSIONS Despite ambiguity regarding the degree to which STIs affect HIV transmission, our combination of data from published STI/HIV transmission models and an HIV lifetime medical cost model can help to quantify the estimated burden of STI-attributable HIV infections in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrell Chesson
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of STD Prevention
| | - Ruiguang Song
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention
| | - Adrienna Bingham
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention
| | - Paul G. Farnham
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention
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Mayer KH, Nelson L, Hightow-Weidman L, Mimiaga MJ, Mena L, Reisner S, Daskalakis D, Safren SA, Beyrer C, Sullivan PS. The persistent and evolving HIV epidemic in American men who have sex with men. Lancet 2021; 397:1116-1126. [PMID: 33617771 PMCID: PMC9639667 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00321-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA were the first population to be identified with AIDS and continue to be at very high risk of HIV acquisition. We did a systematic literature search to identify the factors that explain the reasons for the ongoing epidemic in this population, using a social-ecological perspective. Common features of the HIV epidemic in American MSM include role versatility and biological, individual, and social and structural factors. The high-prevalence networks of some racial and ethnic minority men are further concentrated because of assortative mixing, adverse life experiences (including high rates of incarceration), and avoidant behaviour because of negative interactions with the health-care system. Young MSM have additional risks for HIV because their impulse control is less developed and they are less familiar with serostatus and other risk mitigation discussions. They might benefit from prevention efforts that use digital technologies, which they often use to meet partners and obtain health-related information. Older MSM remain at risk of HIV and are the largest population of US residents with chronic HIV, requiring culturally responsive programmes that address longer-term comorbidities. Transgender MSM are an understudied population, but emerging data suggest that some are at great risk of HIV and require specifically tailored information on HIV prevention. In the current era of pre-exposure prophylaxis and the undetectable equals untransmittable campaign, training of health-care providers to create culturally competent programmes for all MSM is crucial, since the use of antiretrovirals is foundational to optimising HIV care and prevention. Effective control of the HIV epidemic among all American MSM will require scaling up programmes that address their common vulnerabilities, but are sufficiently nuanced to address the specific sociocultural, structural, and behavioural issues of diverse subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth H Mayer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - LaRon Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Fielding School of Public Health and David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Leandro Mena
- Medical Center, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Sari Reisner
- Boston Children's Hospital, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Sullivan PS, Satcher Johnson A, Pembleton ES, Stephenson R, Justice AC, Althoff KN, Bradley H, Castel AD, Oster AM, Rosenberg ES, Mayer KH, Beyrer C. Epidemiology of HIV in the USA: epidemic burden, inequities, contexts, and responses. Lancet 2021; 397:1095-1106. [PMID: 33617774 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00395-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The HIV epidemic in the USA began as a bicoastal epidemic focused in large cities but, over nearly four decades, the epidemiology of HIV has changed. Public health surveillance data can inform an understanding of the evolution of the HIV epidemic in terms of the populations and geographical areas most affected. We analysed publicly available HIV surveillance data and census data to describe: current HIV prevalence and new HIV diagnoses by region, race or ethnicity, and age; trends in HIV diagnoses over time by HIV acquisition risk and age; and the distribution of HIV prevalence by geographical area. We reviewed published literature to explore the reasons for the current distribution of HIV cases and important disparities in HIV prevalence. We identified opportunities to improve public health surveillance systems and uses of data for planning and monitoring public health responses. The current US HIV epidemic is marked by geographical concentration in the US South and profound disparities between regions and by race or ethnicity. Rural areas vary in HIV prevalence; rural areas in the South are more likely to have a high HIV prevalence than rural areas in other US Census regions. Ongoing disparities in HIV in the South are probably driven by the restricted expansion of Medicaid, health-care provider shortages, low health literacy, and HIV stigma. HIV diagnoses overall declined in 2009-18, but HIV diagnoses among individuals aged 25-34 years increased during the same period. HIV diagnoses decreased for all risk groups in 2009-18; among men who have sex with men (MSM), new diagnoses decreased overall and for White MSM, remained stable for Black MSM, and increased for Hispanic or Latino MSM. Surveillance data indicate profound and ongoing disparities in HIV cases, with disproportionate impact among people in the South, racial or ethnic minorities, and MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Satcher Johnson
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Rob Stephenson
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Amy C Justice
- School of Medicine, Yale University, West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Keri N Althoff
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heather Bradley
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amanda D Castel
- Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexandra M Oster
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Eli S Rosenberg
- School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Harvard Medical School and Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Seiler N, Horton K, Pearson WS, Cramer R, Adil M, Bishop D, Heyison C. Addressing the STI Epidemic Through the Medicaid Program: A Roadmap for States and Managed Care Organizations. Public Health Rep 2021; 137:5-10. [PMID: 33617381 PMCID: PMC8721755 DOI: 10.1177/0033354920985476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Seiler
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA,Naomi Seiler, JD, George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Health Policy and Management, 2175 K St NW, Ste 500, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Katie Horton
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - William S. Pearson
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ryan Cramer
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Madina Adil
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Darla Bishop
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Claire Heyison
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Dombrowski JC, Wierzbicki MR, Newman LM, Powell JA, Miller A, Dithmer D, Soge OO, Mayer KH. Doxycycline Versus Azithromycin for the Treatment of Rectal Chlamydia in Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:824-831. [PMID: 33606009 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Azithromycin and doxycycline are both recommended treatments for rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection, but observational studies suggest that doxycycline may be more effective. METHODS This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial compared azithromycin (single one-gram dose) vs. doxycycline (100mg twice daily for seven days) for the treatment of rectal CT in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Seattle and Boston. Participants were enrolled after a diagnosis of rectal CT in clinical care and underwent repeated collection of rectal swabs for nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) at study enrollment, two weeks, and four weeks post-enrollment. The primary outcome was microbiologic cure (CT-negative NAAT) at four weeks. The complete case (CC) population included participants with a CT-positive NAAT at enrollment and a follow-up NAAT result; the intention-to-treat (ITT) population included all randomized participants. RESULTS Among 177 participants enrolled, 135 (76%) met CC population criteria for the four-week follow-up visit. Thirty-three participants (19%) were excluded because the CT NAAT repeated at enrollment was negative. Microbiologic cure was higher with doxycycline than azithromycin in both the CC population [100% (70 of 70) vs. 74% (48 of 65); absolute difference 26% (95% CI: 16-36%; p<0.001)] and the ITT population [91% (80 of 88) vs. 71% (63 of 89); absolute difference 20% (95% CI: 9-31%; p<0.001)]. CONCLUSIONS A one-week course of doxycycline was significantly more effective than a single dose of azithromycin for the treatment of rectal CT in MSM. (Funded by National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases contract HHSN272201300014I, Protocol 17-0092).
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Dombrowski
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,HIV/STD Program, Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Lori M Newman
- Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Dwyn Dithmer
- HIV/STD Program, Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Olusegun O Soge
- Departments of Medicine and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Abara WE, Zlotorzynska M, Kirkcaldy RD, Sanchez T. Bacterial sexually transmitted infection testing and diagnoses among men who have sex with men and report prescription opioid misuse--American Men's Internet Survey, 2017-2018. Ann Epidemiol 2021; 58:1-6. [PMID: 33596447 PMCID: PMC10173859 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Prescription opioid misuse is associated with behaviors which increase bacterial sexually transmitted diseases (STD) risk among men who have sex with men (MSM). Annual syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia screening is recommended for sexually active MSM at anatomical sites of contact, regardless of condom use. We describe the prevalence of self-reported bacterial STD testing and diagnoses in the past 12 months among sexually active MSM who report prescription opioid misuse. METHODS We used data from the 2017 and 2018 American Men's Internet Survey to examine the prevalence of self-reported bacterial STD testing and diagnoses in the past 12 months. We calculated unadjusted prevalence ratios, adjusted prevalence ratios (APR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to compare bacterial STD testing prevalence across demographic, clinical, and behavioral factors. RESULTS Of 932 sexually active MSM who reported prescription opioid misuse, 433 (46.5%) self-reported bacterial STD testing in the past 12 months. Of those who reported being tested, 131 (30.2%) self-reported ≥ 1 bacterial STD. Approximately 50% of respondents who reported condomless anal sex (CAS), casual sex, or exchange sex reported bacterial STD testing in past 12 months. Factors associated with bacterial STD testing among MSM who misused prescription opioids included visiting a healthcare provider in the past 12 months (APR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.09-2.67), ever disclosing same-sex behavior to a healthcare provider (APR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.27-2.50), and CAS in the past 12 months (APR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.10-2.04). CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of self-reported bacterial STD testing in this sample was low and one-third of tested MSM reported ≥ 1 bacterial STD in the past 12 months. Innovative approaches to identify MSM who misuse prescription opioids and expand bacterial STD testing in this population are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston E Abara
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA.
| | | | - Robert D Kirkcaldy
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Travis Sanchez
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
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Biello KB, Horvitz C, Mullin S, Mayer KH, Scott H, Coleman K, Dormitzer J, Norelli J, Hightow-Weidman L, Sullivan P, Mimiaga MJ, Buchbinder S, Bojan K, Futterman D, Emmanuel P, Liu A. HIV self-testing and STI self-collection via mobile apps: experiences from two pilot randomized controlled trials of young men who have sex with men. Mhealth 2021; 7:26. [PMID: 33898595 PMCID: PMC8063023 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-20-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States (US) and have low rates of HIV/STI testing. Provision of HIV self-testing and STI self-collection can increase testing rates, and access to these kits through mobile applications (apps) could help facilitate YMSM using HIV self-testing and STI self-collection. METHODS Data for this study comes from two pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of mobile apps within the Adolescent Trials Network-LYNX and MyChoices-aimed to increase HIV/STI testing among YMSM (age 15-24) who had not recently tested for HIV and were at high risk for HIV acquisition across five US cities. Both apps include the ability to order a HIV self-test with rapid results and a kit for STI self-collection and mailing of samples for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia to a lab for testing. Using assessments of app users (n=80) at pre-randomization and at 3- and 6-months post-randomization and online interview data from a purposive sample of app users (n=37), we report on experiences and lessons learned with HIV self-testing and STI self-collection kits ordered via the apps. RESULTS Participants were on average 20.7 years of age (SD =2.4), and 49% were non-White or multiple race/ethnicity. Sixty-three percent had a prior HIV test. Over half (58%) had a prior STI test, but only 3% had tested within the past 3 months. Nearly two-thirds ordered an HIV self-testing kit; of whom, 75% reported using at least one self-test kit over the study period. STI self-collection kit ordering rates were also high (54%); however, STI self-collection kit return rates were lower (13%), but with a high positivity rate (5.3%). Both HIV self-testing and STI self-collection kits were highly acceptable, and 87% reported that it was extremely/very helpful to be able to order these kits through the apps. The most common reason for not ordering the HIV/STI kits was preferring to test at a clinic. In interviews, participants expressed feeling empowered by being able to test at home; however, they also raised concerns around STI sample collection. CONCLUSIONS HIV self-testing and STI self-collection kit ordering via mobile apps is feasible, acceptable and may show promise in increasing testing rates among YMSM. The LYNX and MyChoices apps are currently being tested in a full-scale efficacy trial, and if successful, these innovative mobile apps could be scaled up to efficiently increase HIV/STI testing among youth across the US.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie B. Biello
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Casey Horvitz
- Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Shelby Mullin
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.C. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hyman Scott
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth Coleman
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Jenna Norelli
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lisa Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health & Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew J. Mimiaga
- Departments of Behavioral & Social Health Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Susan Buchbinder
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kelly Bojan
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, The Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Donna Futterman
- Adolescent AIDS Program, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Patricia Emmanuel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Albert Liu
- Bridge HIV, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Assessment of the Cost-Effectiveness of a Brief Video Intervention for Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention. Sex Transm Dis 2020; 47:130-135. [PMID: 31834206 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cost-effective, scalable interventions are needed to address high rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States. Safe in the City, a 23-minute video intervention designed for STD clinic waiting rooms, effectively reduced new infections among STD clinic clients. A cost-effectiveness analysis of this type of intervention could inform whether it should be replicated. METHODS The cost-effectiveness of a brief video intervention was calculated under a baseline scenario in which this type of intervention was expanded to a larger patient population. Alternative scenarios included expanding the intervention over a longer period or to more clinics, including HIV prevention benefits, and operating the intervention part time. Program costs, net costs per STD case averted, and the discounted net cost of the intervention were calculated from a health sector perspective across the scenarios. Monte Carlo simulations were used to calculate 95% confidence intervals surrounding the cost-effectiveness measures. RESULTS The net cost per case averted was $75 in the baseline scenario. The net cost of the intervention was $108,015, and most of the alternative scenarios found that the intervention was cost saving compared with usual care. CONCLUSIONS Single session, video-based interventions can be highly cost effective when implemented at scale. Updated video-based interventions that account for the changing STD landscape in the United States could play an important role in addressing the recent increases in infections.
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Jones J, Sanchez TH, Dominguez K, Bekker L, Phaswana‐Mafuya N, Baral SD, McNaghten AD, Kgatitswe LB, Valencia R, Yah CS, Zahn R, Siegler AJ, Sullivan PS. Sexually transmitted infection screening, prevalence and incidence among South African men and transgender women who have sex with men enrolled in a combination HIV prevention cohort study: the Sibanye Methods for Prevention Packages Programme (MP3) project. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 6:e25594. [PMID: 33000886 PMCID: PMC7527766 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) experience high incidence and prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STI), and data are needed to understand risk factors for STIs in these populations. The Sibanye Health Project was conducted in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, South Africa from 2015 to 2016 to develop and test a package of HIV prevention interventions for MSM and TGW. We describe the incidence, prevalence and symptoms of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhea (NG) and syphilis observed during the study. METHODS Participants completed HIV testing at baseline. All participants who were HIV negative were followed prospectively. Additionally, a sample of participants identified as living with HIV at baseline was selected to be followed prospectively so that the prospective cohort was approximately 20% HIV positive; the remaining participants identified as HIV positive at baseline were not followed prospectively. Prospective participants were followed for 12 months and returned for clinic-based STI/HIV testing and assessment of STI symptoms at months 6 and 12. Additional HIV/STI testing visits could be scheduled at participant request. RESULTS Following consent, a total of 292 participants attended a baseline visit (mean age = 26 years), and 201 were enrolled for the 12-month prospective study. Acceptance of screening for syphilis and urethral NG/CT was near universal, though acceptance of screening for rectal NG/CT was lower (194/292; 66%). Prevalence of urethral CT and NG at baseline was 10% (29/289) and 3% (8/288) respectively; incidence of urethral CT and NG was 12.8/100 person-years (PY) and 7.1/100 PY respectively. Prevalence of rectal CT and NG at baseline was 25% (47/189) and 16% (30/189) respectively; incidence of rectal CT and NG was 33.4/100 PY and 26.8/100 PY respectively. Prevalence of syphilis at baseline was 17% (45/258) and incidence was 8.2/100 PY. 91%, 95% and 97% of diagnosed rectal NG/CT, urethral NG/CT and syphilis infections, respectively, were clinically asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence and incidence of urethral and rectal STIs were high among these South African MSM and TGW, and were similar to rates in other settings in the world. Clinical symptoms from these infections were rare, highlighting limitations of syndromic surveillance and suggesting the need for presumptive testing and/or treatment to address the STI epidemic among MSM/TGW in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karen Dominguez
- Emory UniversityAtlantaGAUSA
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownObservatorySouth Africa
| | - Linda‐Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV CentreUniversity of Cape TownObservatorySouth Africa
| | | | - Stefan D Baral
- Johns Hopkins University School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | | | | | | | - Clarence S Yah
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV InstituteFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
- School of Heath Systems and Public HealthUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
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Projecting the impact of equity-based preexposure prophylaxis implementation on racial disparities in HIV incidence among MSM. AIDS 2020; 34:1509-1517. [PMID: 32384282 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unknown what levels of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use are needed to reduce racial disparities in HIV incidence among men who have sex with men (MSM). Using an agent-based model, we quantified the impact of achieving PrEP coverage targets grounded in equity on racial disparities in HIV incidence among MSM in an urban setting in the Southeastern United States. METHODS An agent-based model was adapted to simulate HIV transmission in a network of Black/African American and White MSM aged 18-39 years in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell metropolitan area over 10 years (2015-2024). Scenarios simulated coverage levels consistent with targets based on the ratio of the number of individuals using PrEP to the number of individuals newly diagnosed in a calendar year (i.e., the 'PrEP-to-need ratio'), ranging from 1 to 10. Incidence rate ratios and differences were calculated as measures of disparities. RESULTS Without PrEP, the model predicted a rate ratio of 3.82 and a rate difference of 4.50 comparing HIV incidence in Black/African American and White MSM, respectively. Decreases in the rate ratio of at least 50% and in the rate difference of at least 75% were observed in all scenarios in which the PrEP-to-need ratio among Black/African American MSM was 10, regardless of the value among White MSM. CONCLUSION Significant increases in PrEP use are needed among Black/African American MSM to reduce racial disparities in HIV incidence. PrEP expansion must be coupled with structural interventions to address vulnerability to HIV infection among Black/African American MSM.
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Sexually Transmitted Infection Positivity Among Adolescents With or at High-Risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection in Los Angeles and New Orleans. Sex Transm Dis 2020; 46:737-742. [PMID: 31453926 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gay, bisexual, and transgender youth and homeless youth are at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, little recent data exist describing STI positivity by anatomical site among those groups. We determined the positivity of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection, and syphilis antibody reactivity among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and homeless youth. METHODS We recruited 1,264 adolescents with high risk behavior aged 12 to 24 years from homeless shelters, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender organizations, community health centers, and using social media and online dating apps in Los Angeles, California and New Orleans, Louisiana from May 2017 to February 2019. Participants received point-of-care pharyngeal, rectal, and urethral/vaginal CT and NG testing and syphilis antibody testing. We calculated STI positivity by anatomical site and compared positivity by participant subgroups based on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, sex assigned at birth, and gender identity. RESULTS CT and NG positivity and syphilis antibody reactivity was higher among HIV-infected adolescent men who have sex with men (MSM) than HIV-uninfected adolescent MSM (40.2% vs. 19%, P < 0.05), particularly CT or NG rectal infection (28% vs. 12.3%, P < 0.05). Of participants with positive CT or NG infections, 65% had extragenital-only infections, 20% had both extragenital and urogenital infections, and 15% had urogenital-only infections. CONCLUSIONS Sexually transmitted infection positivity was high, particularly among transgender women and MSM. The high proportion of rectal and pharyngeal infections highlights the importance of both urogenital and extragenital STI screening. More accessible STI testing is necessary for high-risk adolescent populations.
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