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Kerschberger B, Boulle A, Kuwengwa R, Ciglenecki I, Schomaker M. The Impact of Same-Day Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Under the World Health Organization Treat-All Policy. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:1519-1532. [PMID: 33576383 PMCID: PMC8327202 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), with the option to start treatment on the day of diagnosis (same-day ART). However, the effect of same-day ART remains unknown in realistic public sector settings. We established a cohort of ≥16-year-old patients who initiated first-line ART under a treat-all policy in Nhlangano (Eswatini) during 2014-2016, either on the day of HIV care enrollment (same-day ART) or 1-14 days thereafter (early ART). Directed acyclic graphs, flexible parametric survival analysis, and targeted maximum likelihood estimation (TMLE) were used to estimate the effect of same-day-ART initiation on a composite unfavorable treatment outcome (loss to follow-up, death, viral failure, treatment switch). Of 1,328 patients, 839 (63.2%) initiated same-day ART. The adjusted hazard ratio of the unfavorable outcome was higher, 1.48 (95% confidence interval: 1.16, 1.89), for same-day ART compared with early ART. TMLE suggested that after 1 year, 28.9% of patients would experience the unfavorable outcome under same-day ART compared with 21.2% under early ART (difference: 7.7%; 1.3%-14.1%). This estimate was driven by loss to follow-up and varied over time, with a higher hazard during the first year after HIV care enrollment and a similar hazard thereafter. We found an increased risk with same-day ART. A limitation was that possible silent transfers that were not captured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Kerschberger
- Correspondence to Dr. Bernhard Kerschberger, Médecins Sans Frontières, Mantsholo Road 325, Mbabane, Eswatini (e-mail: )
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Kassaw MW, Abebe AM, Abate BB, Tlaye KG, Kassie AM. Mother-to-child HIV transmission and its associations among exposed infants after Option B+ guidelines implementation in the Amhara regional state referral hospitals, Ethiopia. Int J Infect Dis 2020; 95:268-275. [PMID: 32247052 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been a global public health priority. In 2013, the World Health Organization recommended antiretroviral therapy administration to all HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women regardless of the CD4 cell count or clinical stage, referred to 'Option B+'. Ethiopia has had a high prevalence of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The prevalence of transmission in breastfeeding mothers was 24% in 2012 and increased to more than 30% in 2015. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HIV transmission and its associations among infants born to HIV-positive mothers who had enrolled with the five Amhara regional state referral hospitals' prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission departments, Ethiopia. METHODS The study used a retrospective single cohort design, and simple random sampling with proportional allocation to select the medical records of 217 exposed infants. The data collected from each hospital were documented from January 1, 2014 to May 30, 2017. The cumulative incidence and prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants in the region were presented using figures and tables. RESULTS The prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants at enrollment to the program was 2.3% (five cases) (95% CI, 0.5-4.6%), whereas the prevalence of HIV transmission among exposed infants on completion of the program was 3.7% (8) (95% CI, 1.4-6.5%). The cumulative incidence of transmission on completing the program was 1.6% (3) (95% CI, 0.0-3.2%). CONCLUSIONS In contrast to the expected outcome of the World Health Organization's 'Option B+' guidelines regarding HIV transmission, this study found the cumulative incidence of HIV transmission on completing the program and the overall prevalence of HIV infection to be high. Although some studies have reported significant reductions in mother-to-child transmission of HIV, there are still considerable challenges in preventing this transmission in the Amhara region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesfin Wudu Kassaw
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayele Mamo Abebe
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Debre Berhan University, PO Box 400, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia.
| | - Biruk Beletew Abate
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Kenean Getaneh Tlaye
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayelign Mengesha Kassie
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, PO Box 400, Woldia, Ethiopia.
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Wexler C, Maloba M, Brown M, Mabachi N, Goggin K, Gautney B, Odeny B, Finocchario-Kessler S. Factors affecting acceptance of at-birth point of care HIV testing among providers and parents in Kenya: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225642. [PMID: 31756242 PMCID: PMC6874324 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background At-birth and point-of-care (POC) HIV testing are emerging strategies to streamline infant HIV diagnosis and expedite ART initiation for HIV-positive infants. The purpose of this qualitative study was to evaluate factors influencing the provision and acceptance of at-birth POC testing among both HIV care providers and parents of HIV-exposed infants in Kenya. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 HIV care providers and 35 parents of HIV-exposed infants (including 23 mothers, 6 fathers, and 3 mother-father pairs) at four study hospitals prior to POC implementation. An overview of best available evidence related to POC was presented to participants prior to each interview. Interviews probed about standard EID services, perceived benefits and risk of at-birth and POC testing, and suggested logistics of providing at-birth and POC. Interviews were audio recorded, translated (if necessary), and transcribed verbatim. Using the Transdisciplinary Model of Evidence Based Practice to guide analysis, transcripts were coded based on a priori themes related to environmental context, patient characteristics, and resources. Results Most providers (24/26) and parents (30/35) held favorable attitudes towards at-birth POC testing. The potential for earlier results to improve infant care and reduce parental anxiety drove preferences for at-birth POC testing. Parents with unfavorable views towards at-birth POC testing preferred standard testing at 6 weeks so that mothers could heal after birth and have time to bond with their newborn before–possibly–learning that their child was HIV-positive. Providers identified lack of resources (shortage of staff, expertise, and space) as a barrier. Discussion While overall acceptability of at-birth POC testing among HIV care providers and parents of HIV-exposed infants may facilitate uptake, barriers remain. Applying a task-shifting approach to implementation and ensuring providers receive training on at-birth POC testing may mitigate provider-related challenges. Comprehensive counseling throughout the antenatal and postpartum periods may mitigate patient-related challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Wexler
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - May Maloba
- Global Health Innovations, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Melinda Brown
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Natabhona Mabachi
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Kathy Goggin
- Health Services and Outcomes Research, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, United States of America
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, United States of America
| | - Brad Gautney
- Global Health Innovations, Dallas, TX, United States of America
| | - Beryne Odeny
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Sarah Finocchario-Kessler
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
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Slow Acceptance of Universal Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Among Mothers Enrolled in IMPAACT PROMISE Studies Across the Globe. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2522-2531. [PMID: 31399793 PMCID: PMC6766470 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02624-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
The PROMISE trial enrolled asymptomatic HIV-infected pregnant and postpartum women not eligible for antiretroviral treatment (ART) per local guidelines and randomly assigned proven antiretroviral strategies to assess relative efficacy for perinatal prevention plus maternal/infant safety and maternal health. The START study subsequently demonstrated clear benefit in initiating ART regardless of CD4 count. Active PROMISE participants were informed of results and women not receiving ART were strongly recommended to immediately initiate treatment to optimize their own health. We recorded their decision and the primary reason given for accepting or rejecting the universal ART offer after receiving the START information. One-third of participants did not initiate ART after the initial session, wanting more time to consider. Six sessions were required to attain 95% uptake. The slow uptake of universal ART highlights the need to prepare individuals and sensitize communities regarding the personal and population benefits of the "Treat All" strategy.
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Kerschberger B, Schomaker M, Telnov A, Vambe D, Kisyeri N, Sikhondze W, Pasipamire L, Ngwenya SM, Rusch B, Ciglenecki I, Boulle A. Decreased risk of HIV-associated TB during antiretroviral therapy expansion in rural Eswatini from 2009 to 2016: a cohort and population-based analysis. Trop Med Int Health 2019; 24:1114-1127. [PMID: 31310029 PMCID: PMC6852273 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Objectives This paper assesses patient‐ and population‐level trends in TB notifications during rapid expansion of antiretroviral therapy in Eswatini which has an extremely high incidence of both TB and HIV. Methods Patient‐ and population‐level predictors and rates of HIV‐associated TB were examined in the Shiselweni region in Eswatini from 2009 to 2016. Annual population‐level denominators obtained from projected census data and prevalence estimates obtained from population‐based surveys were combined with individual‐level TB treatment data. Patient‐ and population‐level predictors of HIV‐associated TB were assessed with multivariate logistic and multivariate negative binomial regression models. Results Of 11 328 TB cases, 71.4% were HIV co‐infected and 51.8% were women. TB notifications decreased fivefold between 2009 and 2016, from 1341 to 269 cases per 100 000 person‐years. The decline was sixfold in PLHIV vs. threefold in the HIV‐negative population. Main patient‐level predictors of HIV‐associated TB were recurrent TB treatment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19–1.65), negative (aOR 1.31, 1.15–1.49) and missing (aOR 1.30, 1.11–1.53) bacteriological status and diagnosis at secondary healthcare level (aOR 1.18, 1.06–1.33). Compared with 2009, the probability of TB decreased for all years from 2011 (aOR 0.69, 0.58–0.83) to 2016 (aOR 0.54, 0.43–0.69). The most pronounced population‐level predictor of TB was HIV‐positive status (adjusted incidence risk ratio 19.47, 14.89–25.46). Conclusions This high HIV‐TB prevalence setting experienced a rapid decline in TB notifications, most pronounced in PLHIV. Achievements in HIV‐TB programming were likely contributing factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Kerschberger
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Mbabane, Eswatini.,Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael Schomaker
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and HealthTechnology Assessment, UMIT - University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Alex Telnov
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Debrah Vambe
- National TB Control Program, Ministry of Health, Manzini, Eswatini
| | - Nicholas Kisyeri
- Eswatini National AIDS Programme, Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Welile Sikhondze
- National TB Control Program, Ministry of Health, Manzini, Eswatini
| | | | | | - Barbara Rusch
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Iza Ciglenecki
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Boulle
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Chandy S, Heylen E, Ravikumar BN, Ekstrand ML. Examining engagement in care of women living with HIV in South India. Health Care Women Int 2019; 41:553-566. [PMID: 31242078 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2019.1623799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
HIV seropositive adherence-challenged women, who reported being on ART for at least four months were interviewed. Data on healthcare history, anti-retroviral therapy, clinic visits, doctor communication, disclosure and fear of stigma were collected. Better engagement in care was significantly more likely among older women, ≥ 10 years of education, higher income, HIV status disclosure to family, with higher community stigma fears and fewer healthcare access barriers. To promote retention, women may be encouraged to consider disclosing their HIV serostatus to supportive household members. A variety of possible interventions to overcome the prevalent barriers to care are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Chandy
- Department of Medicine, St. John's Medical College, Bangalore, India
| | - Elsa Heylen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - B N Ravikumar
- Karnataka State AIDS Prevention Society, Bangalore, India
| | - Maria L Ekstrand
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore, India
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Kerschberger B, Schomaker M, Ciglenecki I, Pasipamire L, Mabhena E, Telnov A, Rusch B, Lukhele N, Teck R, Boulle A. Programmatic outcomes and impact of rapid public sector antiretroviral therapy expansion in adults prior to introduction of the WHO treat-all approach in rural Eswatini. Trop Med Int Health 2019; 24:701-714. [PMID: 30938037 PMCID: PMC6849841 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To assess long‐term antiretroviral therapy (ART) outcomes during rapid HIV programme expansion in the public sector of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Methods This is a retrospectively established cohort of HIV‐positive adults (≥16 years) who started first‐line ART in 25 health facilities in Shiselweni (Eswatini) between 01/2006 and 12/2014. Temporal trends in ART attrition, treatment expansion and ART coverage were described over 9 years. We used flexible parametric survival models to assess the relationship between time to ART attrition and covariates. Results Of 24 772 ART initiations, 6% (n = 1488) occurred in 2006, vs. 13% (n = 3192) in 2014. Between these years, median CD4 cell count at ART initiation increased (113–265 cells/mm3). The active treatment cohort expanded 8.4‐fold, ART coverage increased 8.0‐fold (7.1% in 2006 vs. 56.8% in 2014) and 12‐month crude ART retention improved from 71% to 86%. Compared with the pre‐decentralisation period (2006–2007), attrition decreased by 5% (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.95, 95% confidence interval 0.88–1.02) during HIV‐TB service decentralisation (2008–2010), by 17% (aHR 0.83, 0.75–0.92) during service consolidation (2011–2012), and by 20% (aHR 0.80, 0.71–0.90) during further treatment expansion (2013–2014). The risk of attrition was higher for young age, male sex, pathological baseline haemoglobin and biochemistry results, more toxic drug regimens, WHO III/IV staging and low CD4 cell count; access to a telephone was protective. Conclusions Programmatic outcomes improved during large expansion of the treatment cohort and increased ART coverage. Changes in ART programming may have contributed to better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Kerschberger
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Mbabane, Eswatini.,Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Michael Schomaker
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Iza Ciglenecki
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Edwin Mabhena
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Alex Telnov
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Rusch
- Médecins Sans Frontières (Operational Centre Geneva), Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Andrew Boulle
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Dlamini P, Mokoboto-Zwane TS. Knowledge, attitudes and practices associated with post-natal PMTCT in breastfeeding mothers living with HIV. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AFRICA NURSING SCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2019.100150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Cunnama L, Abrams EJ, Myer L, Gachuhi A, Dlamini N, Hlophe T, Kikuvi J, Langwenya N, Mthethwa S, Mudonhi D, Nhlabatsi B, Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha H, Okello V, Sahabo R, Zerbe A, Sinanovic E. Cost and cost-effectiveness of transitioning to universal initiation of lifelong antiretroviral therapy for all HIV-positive pregnant and breastfeeding women in Swaziland. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:950-959. [PMID: 29956426 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the costs and cost-effectiveness of transitioning from antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation based on CD4 cell count and WHO clinical staging ('Option A') to universal ART ('Option B+') for all HIV-infected pregnant and breastfeeding women in Swaziland. METHODS We measured the total costs of prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) service delivery at public sector facilities with empirical cost data collected at three points in time: once under Option A and again twice after transition to the Option B+ approach. The cost per woman treated per month includes recurrent costs (personnel, overheads, medication and diagnostic tests) and capital costs (buildings, furniture, start-up costs and training). Cost-effectiveness was estimated from the health services perspective as the cost per woman retained in care through 6 months postpartum. This analysis is nested within a larger stepped-wedge evaluation, which demonstrated a 26% increase in maternal retention after the transition to Option B+. RESULTS Across the five sites, the total cost for PMTCT during the study period (from August 2013 to October 2015, in 2015 US$) was $868,426 for Option B+ and $680 508 for Option A. The cost per woman treated per month was $183 for a woman on ART under Option B+, and $127 and $118 for a woman on ART and zidovudine (AZT), respectively, under Option A. The weighted average cost per woman treated on Option B+ was $826 compared to $525 under Option A. The main cost drivers were the start-up costs, additional training provided and staff time spent on PMTCT tasks for Option B+. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was estimated at $912 for every additional mother retained in care through six months postpartum. CONCLUSIONS The cost and cost-effectiveness outcomes from this study indicate that there is a robust economic case for pursuing the Option B+ approach in Swaziland and similar settings such as South Africa. Furthermore, these costs can be used to aid decision making and budgeting, for similar settings transitioning to test and treat strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Cunnama
- Health Economics Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - E J Abrams
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - L Myer
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - A Gachuhi
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - N Dlamini
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - T Hlophe
- Monitoring & Evaluation, Deputy Prime Minister's Office, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - J Kikuvi
- Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - N Langwenya
- Division of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - S Mthethwa
- Swaziland Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - D Mudonhi
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - B Nhlabatsi
- Swaziland Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - H Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,ICAP at Columbia University, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - V Okello
- Swaziland Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - R Sahabo
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,ICAP at Columbia University, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | - A Zerbe
- Mailman School of Public Health, ICAP at Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - E Sinanovic
- Health Economics Unit, School of Public Health & Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Etoori D, Kerschberger B, Staderini N, Ndlangamandla M, Nhlabatsi B, Jobanputra K, Mthethwa-Hleza S, Parker LA, Sibanda S, Mabhena E, Pasipamire M, Kabore SM, Rusch B, Jamet C, Ciglenecki I, Teck R. Challenges and successes in the implementation of option B+ to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV in southern Swaziland. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:374. [PMID: 29558896 PMCID: PMC5859825 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5258-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all pregnant/ breastfeeding women living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), known as Prevention of mother-to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) Option B+ (PMTCTB+), is being scaled up in most countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the transition to PMTCTB+, many countries face challenges with proper implementation of the HIV care cascade. We aimed to describe the feasibility of a PMTCTB+ approach in the public health sector in Swaziland. Methods Lifelong ART was offered to a cohort of HIV+ pregnant women aged ≥16 years at the first antenatal care (ANC1) visit in 9 public sector facilities, between 01/2013 and 06/2014. The study enrolment period was divided into 3 phases (early: 01–06/2013, mid: 07–12/2013 and late: 01–06/2014) to account for temporal trends. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox proportional-hazards regression models were applied for ART initiation and attrition analyses. Results Of 665 HIV+ pregnant women, 496 (74.6%) initiated ART. ART initiation increased in later study enrolment phases (mid: aHR: 1.41; later: aHR: 2.36), and decreased at CD4 ≥ 500 (aHR: 0.69). 52.9% were retained in care at 24 months. Attrition was associated with ANC1 in the third trimester (aHR: 2.37), attending a secondary care facility (aHR: 1.98) and ART initiation during later enrolment phases (mid aHR: 1.48; late aHR: 1.67). Of 373 women eligible, 67.3% received a first VL. 223/251 (88.8%) were virologically suppressed (< 1000 copies/mL). Of 670 infants, 53.6% received an EID test, 320/359 had a test result recorded and of whom 7 (2.2%) were HIV+. Conclusions PMTCTB+ was found to be feasible in this setting, with high rates of maternal viral suppression and low transmission to the infant. High treatment attrition, poor follow-up of mother-baby pairs and under-utilisation of VL and EID testing are important programmatic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Etoori
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Mbabane, Swaziland. .,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Bonisile Nhlabatsi
- Sexual and Reproductive Health Unit, Ministry of Health, Mbabane, Swaziland
| | | | | | - Lucy Anne Parker
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland.,CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Roger Teck
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Geneva, Switzerland.,South African Medical Unit, Médecins Sans Frontières, Cape Town, South Africa
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Ahmed CV, Jolly P, Padilla L, Malinga M, Harris C, Mthethwa N, Jha M, Ba I, Styles A, Perry S, Brooks R, Naluyinda-Kitabire F, Preko P. A qualitative analysis of the barriers to antiretroviral therapy initiation among children 2 to 18 months of age in Swaziland. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH : AJAR 2017; 16:321-328. [PMID: 29132287 PMCID: PMC6186391 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2017.1380677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
HIV/AIDS remains one of the leading causes of death among children under 5 years old in Swaziland. Although studies have shown that early initiation of infants and children diagnosed with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) significantly reduces mortality, many children do not initiate ART until the later stages of disease. This study was designed to collect qualitative data from mothers and caregivers of HIV-positive children to identify the barriers to ART initiation. Focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted in siSwati between July and September 2014 among caregivers of aged children 2-18 months in Swaziland who did or did not initiate ART between January 2011 and December 2012 after HIV DNA PCR-positive diagnosis of the infants. Denial, guilt, lack of knowledge, tuberculosis (TB)/HIV co-infection, HIV-related stigma, lack of money, and distance to clinics were reported by the participants as barriers to ART initiation. The findings further revealed that non-initiation on ART was not linked to a negative perception of the treatment. Findings suggest a need to improve sensitivity among healthcare workers as well as education and counselling services that will facilitate the ART initiation process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luz Padilla
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Epidemiology
| | - Musa Malinga
- Lusweti Institute for Health Development Communication, Swaziland
| | | | | | - Megha Jha
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Epidemiology
| | | | | | - Sarah Perry
- Baylor International Pediatric AIDS Initiative
| | - Raina Brooks
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Epidemiology
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Moges NA, Kassa GM, Boneya DJ. Rate of HIV transmission and associated factors among HIV-exposed infants in selected health facilities of East and West Gojjam Zones, Northwest Ethiopia; retrospective cohort study. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:475. [PMID: 28683718 PMCID: PMC5501065 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2578-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 2014, there were 170,000 new HIV-infected children globally. The rate of HIV transmission from mother to child in Ethiopia was 18%. Though there are a number of HIV-related studies conducted in Ethiopia, there is a scarcity of evidence on the rate of mother to child transmission. So, the aim of this study was to determine the rate of HIV transmission and associated factors among HIV-exposed infants in selected health facilities in East and West Gojjam Zones, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods Retrospective cohort study design was conducted. A total of 305 exposed infant- and mother pairs were included in this study. Data were collected from seven selected health facilities in East and West Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. The study included a four-year duration PMTCT data, registered from July/2011 to July/2015. Data was collected using a prepared checklist. Data was entered using EpiData and analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive, bivariate and multiple variable logistic regression analysis were conducted. A p-value less than 0.05 were used to declare statistical significant association. Result Three hundred five infants and their mothers were included in this study. The mean age of mothers was 27.4 with a standard deviation of 4.3 years. The majority, 96.4% of infants were on exclusive breastfeeding before six months. The rate of HIV transmission at the end of 24 months were 5.9% (95% CI: 3.9%–7.9%). The number of positive children was reduced from 14 (10.29%) to 4(2.37%) due to the program shift from option A to option B+. Factors which were associated with transmission of HIV from mother to child were; children who were born from older mothers (AOR = 5.4, 95% CI = 1.15, 25.70), and infants whose mother couldn’t get PMTCT intervention (AOR = 15.95, 95% CI = 3.35, 75), and mothers who became pregnant after they knew they were HIV positive (AOR = 0.22, 95%CI = 0.049,096). Conclusions There is significant progress on the reduction of the rate of HIV transmission from mother to child in Ethiopia. Age of the mother, status of the mother at an entry to PMTCT program and presence of PMTCT interventions were significant factors associated with HIV transmission. Hence, the above factors should be given due emphasis on controlling HIV transmission from mother to child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurilign Abebe Moges
- College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O.BOX: 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Getachew Mullu Kassa
- College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O.BOX: 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
| | - Dube Jara Boneya
- College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O.BOX: 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Hodson N, Bewley S. Pursuing ethical coherence in the prevention of vertical transmission of HIV: justice and injustice in Option B. J Virus Erad 2017; 3:163-166. [PMID: 28758025 PMCID: PMC5518246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Improved prevention of vertical transmission of HIV is an essential part of the global response to HIV. The Option B+ strategy took the extraordinary step of treating many non-pregnant women living with HIV (those with CD4 cell counts >350 cells/mm3) in the absence of evidence that they themselves would benefit from ART. This example of so-called AIDS exceptionalism reflects an understanding that the global response to HIV demands a different set of morals. This philosophical article explores a retrospective analysis of the ethical arguments made in support of Option B+ incorporating utilitarian, feminist and equity-based frameworks. A number of inconsistencies were found in the arguments made for the introduction of Option B+ well before results were available from the START and TEMPRANO trials. Although some people think 'the ends justify the means', we conclude that erroneous justifications were initially given in support of Option B+. We identify tensions that remain in light of these results and argue that future strategies would benefit from a community-focused, human rights-based approach.
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Pursuing ethical coherence in the prevention of vertical transmission of HIV: justice and injustice in Option B+. J Virus Erad 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30336-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Helova A, Akama E, Bukusi EA, Musoke P, Nalwa WZ, Odeny TA, Onono M, Spangler SA, Turan JM, Wanga I, Abuogi LL. Health facility challenges to the provision of Option B+ in western Kenya: a qualitative study. Health Policy Plan 2017; 32:283-291. [PMID: 28207061 PMCID: PMC5886182 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czw122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Current WHO guidelines recommend lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all HIV-positive individuals, including pregnant and breastfeeding women (Option B+) in settings with generalized HIV epidemics. While Option B+ is scaled-up in Kenya, insufficient adherence and retention to care could undermine the expected positive impact of Option B+. To explore challenges to the provision of Option B+ at the health facility level, we conducted forty individual gender-matched in-depth interviews with HIV-positive pregnant/postpartum women and their male partners, and four focus groups with thirty health care providers at four health facilities in western Kenya between September-November 2014. Transcripts were coded with the Dedoose software using a coding framework based on the literature, topics from interview guides, and emerging themes from transcripts. Excerpts from broad codes were then fine-coded using an inductive approach. Three major themes emerged: 1) Option B+ specific challenges (same-day initiation into treatment, health care providers unconvinced of the benefits of Option B+, insufficient training); 2) facility resource constraints (staff and drug shortages, long queues, space limitations); and 3) lack of client-friendly services (scolding of patients, inconvenient operating hours, lack of integration of services, administrative requirements). This study highlights important challenges at the health facility level related to Option B+ rollout in western Kenya. Addressing these specific challenges may increase linkage, retention and adherence to life-long ART treatment for pregnant HIV-positive women in Kenya, contribute towards elimination of mother-to-child HIV transmission, and improve maternal and child outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Helova
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, US
| | - Eliud Akama
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Pamela Musoke
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, US
| | - Wafula Z Nalwa
- Migori County Referral Hospital, Kenya Ministry of Health, Migori, Kenya
| | - Thomas A Odeny
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, US
| | - Maricianah Onono
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sydney A Spangler
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, US
| | - Janet M Turan
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, US
| | - Iris Wanga
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lisa L Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, US
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Katirayi L, Chouraya C, Kudiabor K, Mahdi MA, Kieffer MP, Moland KM, Tylleskar T. Lessons learned from the PMTCT program in Swaziland: challenges with accepting lifelong ART for pregnant and lactating women - a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:1119. [PMID: 27776495 PMCID: PMC5078916 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3767-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Swaziland has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in sub-Saharan Africa, 26 % of the adult population is infected with HIV. The prevalence is highest among pregnant women, at 41.1 %. According to Swaziland’s prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) guidelines, approximately 50 % of pregnant women are eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) by CD4 criteria (<350 cells/ml). Studies have shown that most mother-to-child transmission and postnatal deaths occur among women who are eligible for ART. Therefore, ensuring that ART eligible women are initiated on ART is critical for PMTCT and for mother and baby survival. This study provides insight into the challenges of lifelong ART initiation among pregnant women under Option A in Swaziland. We believe that these challenges and lessons learned from initiating women on lifelong ART under Option A are relevant and important to consider during implementation of Option B+. Methods HIV-positive, treatment-eligible, postpartum women and nurses were recruited within maternal and child health (MCH) units using convenience and purposive sampling. Participants came from both urban and rural areas. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and structured interviews using a short answer questionnaire were conducted to gain an understanding of the challenges experienced when initiating lifelong ART. Seven FGDs (of 5–11 participants) were conducted, four FGDs with nurses, two FGDs with women who initiated ART, and one FGD with women who did not initiate ART. A total of 83 interviews were conducted; 50 with women who initiated ART and 33 with women who did not initiate. Data collection with the women was conducted in the local language of SiSwati and data collection with the nurses was done in English. FGDs were audio-recorded and simultaneously transcribed and translated into English. Analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. Transcripts were coded by two researchers in the qualitative software program MAXqda v.10. Thematic findings were illustrated using verbatim quotes which were selected on the basis of being representative of a specific theme. The short-answer interview questionnaire included specific questions about the different steps in the woman’s experience initiating ART; therefore the responses for each question were analyzed separately. Results Findings from the study highlight women feeling overwhelmed by the lifetime commitment of ART, feeling “healthy” when asked to initiate ART, preference for short-course prophylaxis and fear of side effects (body changes). Also, the preference for nurses to determine on an individual basis the number of counseling appointments a woman needs before initiating ART, more information about HIV and ART needed at the community level, and the need to educate men about HIV and ART. Conclusion Women face a myriad of challenges initiating lifelong ART. Understanding women’s concerns will aid in developing effective counseling messages, designing appropriate counseling structures, understanding where additional support is needed in the process of initiating ART, and knowing who to target for community level messages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Katirayi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 200, Washington DC, 20036, USA. .,Center for International Health, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | | | - Mohammed Ali Mahdi
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 200, Washington DC, 20036, USA
| | - Mary Pat Kieffer
- Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, 1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 200, Washington DC, 20036, USA
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90-90-90--Charting a steady course to end the paediatric HIV epidemic. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20296. [PMID: 26639119 PMCID: PMC4670839 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.7.20296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The new "90-90-90" UNAIDS agenda proposes that 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status, 90% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression by 2020. By focusing on children, the global community is in the unique position of realizing an end to the paediatric HIV epidemic. DISCUSSION Despite vast scientific advances in the prevention and treatment of paediatric HIV infection over the last two decades, in 2014 there were an estimated 220,000 new paediatric infections attributed to mother-to-child HIV transmission (MTCT) and 150,000 HIV-related paediatric deaths. Furthermore, adolescents remain at particularly high risk for acquisition of new HIV infections, and HIV/AIDS remains the second leading cause of death in this age group. Among the estimated 2.6 million children less than 15 years of age living with HIV infection, only 32% were receiving life-saving antiretroviral treatment. After decades of languishing, good progress is now being made to prevent MTCT. Unfortunately, efforts to scale up HIV treatment services have been less robust for children and adolescents compared with adult populations. These discrepancies reflect substantial gaps in essential services and numerous missed opportunities to prevent HIV transmission and provide effective life-saving antiretroviral treatment to children, adolescents and families. The road to an AIDS-free generation will require bridging the gaps in HIV services and addressing the particular needs of children across the developmental spectrum from infancy through adolescence. To reach the ambitious new targets, innovations and service improvements will need to be rapidly escalated at each step along the prevention-treatment cascade. CONCLUSIONS Charting a successful course to reach the 90-90-90 targets will require sustained political and financial commitment as well as the rapid implementation of a broad set of systematic improvements in service delivery. The prospect of a world where HIV no longer threatens the lives of infants, children and adolescents may finally be within reach.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides an update on current developments with prevention, treatment and cure strategies in the field of pediatric HIV. RECENT FINDINGS/SUMMARY There has been tremendous progress in the prevention and treatment of pediatric HIV infection. With new strategies for prevention of mother-to-child transmission, we are growing ever closer towards elimination of pediatric HIV, though challenges with retention of pregnant woman and their HIV-exposed infants remain. Ongoing vigilance regarding the potential hazards of in utero ART exposure to infants continues with no significant alarms yet identified. Though cure has not been achieved, evidence of the impact of early treatment on reducing HIV-1 reservoir size with subsequent prolonged remission has enlivened efforts to rapidly identify and treat HIV-infected newborns. There is an increasing array of treatment options for pediatric patients and reassuring evidence regarding long-term complications of ART. Unfortunately, despite evidence suggesting the benefit of early treatment, timely identification and treatment of children remains a challenge. Better strategies for effective case-finding and engagement in care are urgently needed in addition to an improved understanding of how to retain HIV-positive children and adolescents on treatment. However, further emboldened by recent international commitments and robust global support, the future is hopeful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria H Kim
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Retrovirology, Houston, Texas, USA ; Baylor College of Medicine-Abbott Fund Children's Clinical Center of Excellence, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Saeed Ahmed
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Retrovirology, Houston, Texas, USA ; Baylor College of Medicine-Abbott Fund Children's Clinical Center of Excellence, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Elaine J Abrams
- ICAP-Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York NY, USA ; College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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