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Ge Q, Shi X, Huang H, Zhou Z, Zhou X, Ni Z, Zhou Z, Wu C, Zhuang X. A Social Network Theory-Based Investigation into the Characteristics of MSM in Virtual Communities. AIDS Behav 2025; 29:1897-1909. [PMID: 39971844 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-025-04657-3] [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: 02/07/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025]
Abstract
Social networks significantly influence MSM's HIV prevention behaviors, with virtual communities serving as key interaction platforms. Using a Python web crawler, we analyzed 960 user profiles from Baidu Tieba's "Gay Bar" forum. The social network within this community exhibits a core-periphery structure, where a densely connected core facilitates effective information dissemination, while the majority of users reside in peripheral positions with limited and isolated connections. Relationships within the network are primarily formed based on shared interests rather than geographical proximity, fostering homophilous interactions that enhance peer support and community cohesion. Despite the fragmented nature of peripheral connections, the tightly knit core enables the strategic targeting of key individuals to optimize the spread of health-related information and interventions. These findings highlight the importance of leveraging the network's core structure to implement efficient and inclusive public health strategies, ensuring that resources reach all members of the MSM community effectively. In addition, interest-based connections are essential in promoting a fair and supportive virtual environment, which is essential to address stigma and promote broad participation in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Ge
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
- Zhangjiagang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Suzhou, China
| | - Ziyue Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhou
- Nantong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nantong, China
| | - Zijun Ni
- School of Science, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zixiao Zhou
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown/Darlington Campus, Building A27, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Congxia Wu
- Nantong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nantong, China
| | - Xun Zhuang
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
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Shrader CH, Duncan DT, Driver R, Arroyo-Flores JG, Coudray MS, Moody R, Chen YT, Skaathun B, Young L, del Vecchio N, Fujimoto K, Knox JR, Kanamori M, Schneider JA. Investigating Social Network Peer Effects on HIV Care Engagement Using a Fuzzy-Like Matching Approach: Cross-Sectional Secondary Analysis of the N2 Cohort Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2025; 11:e64497. [PMID: 40338201 PMCID: PMC12080284 DOI: 10.2196/64497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2025] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Social network data are essential and informative for public health research and implementation as they provide details on individuals and their social context. For example, health information and behaviors, such as HIV-related prevention and care, may disseminate within a network or across society. By harmonizing egocentric and digital networks, researchers may construct a sociocentric-like "fuzzy" network based on a subgroup of the population. Objective We aimed to generate a more complete sociocentric-like "fuzzy" network by harmonizing alternative sources of egocentric and digital network data to examine relationships between participants in the Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) cohort study. Further, we examined network peer effects of the status-neutral HIV care continuum cascade. Methods Data were collected from January 2018 to December 2019 in Chicago, Illinois, United States, from a community health center and via peer referral sampling as part of the N2 cohort study, comprised of Black sexually minoritized men and gender expansive populations. Participants provided sociodemographics, social networks, sexual networks, mobile phone contacts, and Facebook friends list data. Lab-based information about the HIV care continuum cascade was also collected. We used an experimental approach to develop and test a fuzzy matching algorithm to construct a more complete network across social, sexual, phone, and Facebook networks using R and Excel. We calculated social network centrality measures for each of these networks and then described the HIV care continuum within the context of each network. We then used Spearman correlation and a network autocorrelation model to examine social network peer effects with HIV status and care engagement. Results A total of 412 participants resulted in 2054 network connections (ties) across the confidant and sexual partner social networks (participants=387; ties=445), peer referral network (participants=412; ties=362), phone contacts (participants=273; ties=362), and Facebook network (participants=144; ties=1383), reaching the entire study sample in one fully connected "fuzzy" network. Results from the individual networks' autocorrelation model suggest there are no peer effects on status-neutral HIV care engagement. Results from the final fuzzy-like sociocentric network autocorrelation model, adjusted for HIV serostatus, suggest that participants who were proximate to network members engaged in HIV care were significantly more likely to be engaged in care (ρ=0.128, SE 0.064; P=.045). Conclusions Using alternative sources of network data allowed us to fuzzy match a more complete network: fuzzy matching may identify hidden ties among participants that were missed by examining alternative sources of network data separately. Although sociocentric studies require significant resources to implement, more complete sociocentric-like networks may be generated using a fuzzy match approach that leverages egocentric, peer referral, and digital networks. Enriching offline networks with digital network data may provide insights into characteristics and norms that egocentric approaches may not be able to capture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cho-Hee Shrader
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, United States, 1 7033382642
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, United States, 1 7033382642
| | - Redd Driver
- New York Department of Mental Health and Hygiene, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Makella S Coudray
- Population Health Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Raymond Moody
- University of Connecticut, Hartford, CT, United States
| | - Yen-Tyng Chen
- Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Britt Skaathun
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lindsay Young
- School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - Kayo Fujimoto
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Justin R Knox
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mariano Kanamori
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Zhang X, Zhang R. The effect of two facets of physicians' environmental stress on patients' compliance with COVID-19 guidelines: moderating roles of two types of ego network. Psychol Health 2024; 39:1953-1977. [PMID: 38156510 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2023.2295902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Drawing upon the Conservation of Resources Theory, this study seeks to examine the association between two dimensions of environmental stress experienced by physicians and patients' adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, within the context of a social network framework. A third-wave longitudinal study was employed to gather 439 valid data points in China. Social network analysis and structural equation model were used to test the conceptual model. The results reveal the pivotal role of physicians' environmental stress related to their work and family contexts in influencing patients' adherence to COVID-19 guidelines through the mediation of physicians' information sharing. The ego networks of physicians, encompassing both advice-seeking and friendship ties, were observed to negatively moderate the relationship between stress and resource depletion. Broadly, our study shows the importance of understanding physicians' stress caused by the working and family environments, as these factorsnot only impact the psychological well-being of physicians but also significantly affect patients' compliance with COVID-19 guidelines. In addition, the work offers a framework for understanding the impact of the ego advice-seeking network and the ego friend network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xijing Zhang
- Department of Information Management, School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
| | - Runtong Zhang
- Department of Information Management, School of Economics and Management, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, China
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Walters SM, Baker R, Frank D, Fadanelli M, Rudolph AE, Zule W, Fredericksen RJ, Bolinski R, Sibley AL, Go VF, Ouellet LJ, Pho MT, Seal DW, Feinberg J, Smith G, Young AM, Stopka TJ. Strategies used to reduce harms associated with fentanyl exposure among rural people who use drugs: multi-site qualitative findings from the rural opioid initiative. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:154. [PMID: 39182116 PMCID: PMC11344336 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01062-2] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM Illicitly manufactured fentanyl and its analogs are the primary drivers of opioid overdose deaths in the United States (U.S.). People who use drugs may be exposed to fentanyl or its analogs intentionally or unintentionally. This study sought to identify strategies used by rural people who use drugs to reduce harms associated with unintentional fentanyl exposure. METHODS This analysis focused on 349 semi-structured qualitative interviews across 10 states and 58 rural counties in the U.S conducted between 2018 and 2020. Interview guides were collaboratively standardized across sites and included questions about drug use history (including drugs currently used, frequency of use, mode of administration) and questions specific to fentanyl. Deductive coding was used to code all data, then inductive coding of overdose and fentanyl codes was conducted by an interdisciplinary writing team. RESULTS Participants described being concerned that fentanyl had saturated the drug market, in both stimulant and opioid supplies. Participants utilized strategies including: (1) avoiding drugs that were perceived to contain fentanyl, (2) buying drugs from trusted sources, (3) using fentanyl test strips, 4) using small doses and non-injection routes, (5) using with other people, (6) tasting, smelling, and looking at drugs before use, and (7) carrying and using naloxone. Most people who used drugs used a combination of these strategies as there was an overwhelming fear of fatal overdose. CONCLUSION People who use drugs living in rural areas of the U.S. are aware that fentanyl is in their drug supply and use several strategies to prevent associated harms, including fatal overdose. Increasing access to harm reduction tools (e.g., fentanyl test strips, naloxone) and services (e.g., community drug checking, syringe services programs, overdose prevention centers) should be prioritized to address the polysubstance-involved overdose crisis. These efforts should target persons who use opioids and other drugs that may contain fentanyl.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan M Walters
- Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Robin Baker
- Learning Design and Innovation, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - David Frank
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Monica Fadanelli
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Abby E Rudolph
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - William Zule
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Adams L Sibley
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Vivian F Go
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence J Ouellet
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David W Seal
- Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Judith Feinberg
- Departments of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry and Medicine/Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Gordon Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Thomas J Stopka
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Ezell JM, Pho MT, Simek E, Ajayi BP, Shetty N, Walters SM. How do people who use opioids express their qualities and capacities? An assessment of attitudes, behaviors, and opportunities. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:79. [PMID: 38589920 PMCID: PMC11000313 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00981-4] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
People who nonmedically use drugs (PWUD) face intricate social issues that suppress self-actualization, communal integration, and overall health and wellness. "Strengths-based" approaches, an under-used pedagogy and practice in addiction medicine, underscore the significance of identifying and recognizing the inherent and acquired skills, attributes, and capacities of PWUD. A strengths-based approach engenders client affirmation and improves their capacity to reduce drug use-related harms by leveraging existing capabilities. Exploring this paradigm, we conducted and analyzed interviews with 46 PWUD who were clients at syringe services programs in New York City and rural southern Illinois, two areas with elevated rates of opioid-related morbidity and mortality, to assess respondents' perceived strengths. We located two primary thematic modalities in which strengths-based ethos is expressed: individuals (1) being and advocate and resource for harm reduction knowledge and practices and (2) engaging in acts of continuous self-actualization. These dynamics demonstrate PWUD strengths populating and manifesting in complex ways that both affirm and challenge humanist and biomedical notions of individual agency, as PWUD refract enacted, anticipated, and perceived stigmas. In conclusion, programs that blend evidence-based, systems-level interventions on drug use stigma and disenfranchisement with meso and micro-level strengths-based interventions that affirm and leverage personal identity, decision-making capacity, and endemic knowledge may help disrupt health promotion cleavages among PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel M Ezell
- Community Health Sciences, Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elinor Simek
- Community Health Sciences, Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Berkeley Center for Cultural Humility, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Netra Shetty
- Biology and Society, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Suzan M Walters
- Department of Population Health at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Green HD, Grant JD, Henschel B, Johnson L, Wei X, Wagner KD. Characteristics of Individuals Seen as Sources of Social Support in Populations at Increased Risk for HIV. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3447-3459. [PMID: 37052786 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04059-3] [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: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Access to social support from one's social network can serve as a protective factor against HIV infection; however, research exploring the availability of support in diverse populations that include high proportions of people at increased risk for HIV and the characteristics of network members associated with access to such support is limited. Multi-level dyadic analyses of social network data collected from women at risk for HIV and their network members reveal which individual and relationship characteristics of network members are associated with providing emotional, material, and/or health informational support. Results indicate that access to all three types of support was associated with a network member being a friend, a member of a participant's 'core' group, someone whose opinion matters to the respondent, and the respondent trusting them. These findings have implications for interventions designed to increase access to support among individuals at risk for HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harold D Green
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA.
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, 809 E. 9th St., Room 201, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA.
| | - Jeffrey D Grant
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Beate Henschel
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Public Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Laura Johnson
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Xing Wei
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Karla D Wagner
- School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA
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Shrader CH, Duncan DT, Chen YT, Driver R, Russell J, Moody RL, Knox J, Skaathun B, Durrell M, Hanson H, Eavou R, Goedel WC, Schneider JA. Latent Profile Patterns of Network-Level Norms and Associations with Individual-Level Sexual Behaviors: The N2 Cohort Study in Chicago. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2355-2372. [PMID: 36877319 PMCID: PMC10480356 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02555-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Individual-level behavior can be influenced by injunctive and descriptive social network norms surrounding that behavior. There is a need to understand how the influence of social norms within an individual's social networks may influence individual-level sexual behavior. We aimed to typologize the network-level norms of sexual behaviors within the social networks of Black sexual and gender minoritized groups (SGM) assigned male at birth. Survey data were collected in Chicago, Illinois, USA, between 2018 and 2019 from Black SGM. A total of 371 participants provided individual-level information about sociodemographic characteristics and HIV vulnerability from sex (i.e., condomless sex, group sex, use of alcohol/drugs to enhance sex) and completed an egocentric network inventory assessing perceptions of their social network members' (alters') injunctive and descriptive norms surrounding sexual behaviors with increased HIV vulnerability. We used Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to identify network-level norms based on the proportion of alters' approval of the participant engaging in condomless sex, group sex, and use of drugs to enhance sex (i.e., injunctive norms) and alters' engagement in these behaviors (i.e., descriptive norms). We then used binomial regression analyses to examine associations between network-level norm profiles and individual-level HIV vulnerability from sex. The results of our LPA indicated that our sample experienced five distinct latent profiles of network-level norms: (1) low HIV vulnerability network norm, (2) moderately high HIV vulnerability network norm, (3) high HIV vulnerability network norm, (4) condomless sex dominant network norm, and (5) approval of drug use during sex dominant network norm. Condomless anal sex, group sex, and using drugs to enhance sex were positively and significantly associated with higher HIV vulnerability social network norm profiles, relative to low HIV vulnerability norm profiles. To mitigate Black SGM's HIV vulnerability, future HIV risk reduction strategies can consider using network-level intervention approaches such as opinion leaders, segmentation, induction, or alteration, through an intersectionality framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cho-Hee Shrader
- Department of Epidemiology, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, 211 W 117th St APT 3A, New York, NY, 10026, USA.
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yen-Tyng Chen
- Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Redd Driver
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Russell
- Department of Epidemiology, ICAP at Columbia University, Columbia University, 211 W 117th St APT 3A, New York, NY, 10026, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Raymond L Moody
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin Knox
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Mainza Durrell
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hillary Hanson
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rebecca Eavou
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - William C Goedel
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Temelkovska T, Moriarty K, Huerta L, Perez-Brumer AG, Segura ER, Passaro RC, Lake JE, Clark JL, Blair CS. Both/And: Mixed methods analysis of network composition, communication patterns, and socio-economic support within social networks of transgender women in Lima, Peru. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3150364. [PMID: 37577472 PMCID: PMC10418543 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3150364/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Social networks contribute to normative reinforcement of HIV prevention strategies, knowledge sharing, and social capital, but little research has characterized the social networks of transgender women (TW) in Latin America. We conducted a mixed methods analysis of three network clusters of TW in Lima, Peru, to evaluate network composition, types of support exchanged, and patterns of communication. Methods We recruited TW residing in or affiliated with three "casas trans" (houses shared among TW) in Lima between April-May 2018. Eligible participants were 18 or older, self-reported HIV-negative, and reported recent intercourse with a cis-male partner. Participants completed demographic questionnaires, social network interviews, and semi-structured interviews to assess egocentric network structures, support exchanged, and communication patterns. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using Stata v14.1 and Atlas.ti, respectively. Results Of 20 TW, median age was 26 years and 100% reported involvement in commercial sex work. Respondents identified 161 individuals they interacted with in the past month (alters), of whom 33% were TW and 52% family members. 70% of respondents reported receiving emotional support from family, while 30% received financial support and instrumental support from family. Of the 13 (65%) respondents who nominated someone as a source of HIV prevention support (HPS), the majority (69%) nominated other TW. In a GEE regression analysis adjusted for respondent education and region of birth, being a family member was associated with lower likelihood of providing financial support (aOR 0.21, CI 0.08-0.54), instrumental support (aOR 0.16, CI 0.06-0.39), and HPS (aOR 0.18, CI 0.05-0.64). In qualitative interviews, most respondents identified a cis-female family member as their most trusted and closest network member, but other TW were more often considered sources of day-to-day support, including HPS. Conclusion TW have diverse social networks where other TW are key sources of knowledge sharing and support, and family members may also represent important and influential components. Within these complex networks, TW may selectively solicit and provide support from different network alters according to specific contexts and needs. HIV prevention messaging could consider incorporating network-based interventions with TW community input and outreach efforts for supportive family members.
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Hussen SA, Drumhiller K, Emerenini S, Moore SJ, Jones MD, Camacho-González A, Ransome Y, Elopre L, Del Río C, Harper GW. Understanding social capital among young black gay and bisexual men living with HIV: a qualitative exploration. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2022; 24:1498-1513. [PMID: 34506268 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2021.1974561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Social capital, defined as the sum of an individual's resource-containing, reciprocal and trustworthy social network connections, has been associated with improved engagement in care among people living with HIV globally. We conducted a qualitative interview study of social capital among 28 young Black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men ages 18-29 living with HIV in Atlanta, Georgia. We asked participants about bonding capital (relationships between individuals with similar demographic characteristics), bridging capital (relationships with individuals of different backgrounds), collective efficacy (involvement with community organisations) and satisfaction with their social networks. We found that participants described bonding capital from friends and family in depth, while more gaps were noted in bridging capital and collective efficacy. Bonding capital derived from families was especially critical to participants' satisfaction with their social capital. Findings suggest that interventions targeting young Black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men should build upon strong bonds with family and friends, and/or fill gaps in bridging capital and collective efficacy by connecting young men to mentors and organisations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia A Hussen
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Sabina Emerenini
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Shamia J Moore
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Marxavian D Jones
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andrés Camacho-González
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Latesha Elopre
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Carlos Del Río
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gary W Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Young LE, Tang JL, Nan Y. Social Media Communication and Network Correlates of HIV Infection and Transmission Risks Among Black Sexual Minority Men: Cross-sectional Digital Epidemiology Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e37982. [PMID: 36264617 PMCID: PMC9634521 DOI: 10.2196/37982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, HIV disproportionately affects Black cisgender sexual minority men (BSMM). Although epidemiological and behavioral surveillance are integral to identifying BSMM at risk of HIV infection and transmission, overreliance on self-reported data, inability to observe social contexts, and neglect of populations with limited engagement in health care systems limits their effectiveness. Digital epidemiological approaches drawing on social media data offer an opportunity to overcome these limitations by passively observing in organic settings activities, beliefs, behaviors, and moods that indicate health risks but are otherwise challenging to capture. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this study was to determine whether features of Facebook communication and networks were associated with biological, behavioral, and psychological indicators of HIV infection and transmission risk. METHODS Facebook and survey data were collected from BSMM aged 18 to 35 years living in Chicago (N=310). Participants' Facebook posts were characterized using 4 culturally tailored topic dictionaries related to aspects of HIV protection and risk among BSMM (sexual health; substance use; sex behavior; and ballroom culture, a salient subculture in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities of color). Social network methods were used to capture structural features of BSMM's Facebook friendships (centrality, brokerage, and local clustering) and Facebook group affiliations. Multivariable regressions revealed relationships between these Facebook features and 5 ground truth indicators of HIV infection and transmission risk (sexually transmitted infection incidence, condomless sex, sex drug use, biomedical prevention, and depression). RESULTS Although analysis of participants' Facebook posts revealed that HIV-related topics occupied a small portion of the total messages posted by each participant, significant associations were found between the following HIV risk indicators and Facebook features: Condomless sex, including communication about sexual health (odds ratio [OR] 1.58, 95% CI 1.09-2.29), ballroom culture (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.63-0.93), and friendship centrality (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.52-0.92); Sex drug use, including communication about substance use (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.17-2.79) and friendship centrality (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.55-0.96) and brokerage (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51-0.99); Biomedical prevention, including communication about ballroom culture (OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.01-0.71); and Depression, including communication about sexual health (β=-0.72, 95% CI -1.42 to -0.02), ballroom culture (β=.80, 95% CI 0.27-1.34), friendship centrality (β=-0.90, 95% CI -1.60 to -0.21), and Facebook group affiliations (β=.84, 95% CI 0.25-1.43). Facebook features provided no significant explanatory value for sexually transmitted infection incidence. CONCLUSIONS Finding innovative strategies to detect BSMM at risk of contracting or transmitting HIV is critical to eliminating HIV disparities in this community. The findings suggest that social media data enable passive observance of social and communicative contexts that would otherwise go undetected using traditional HIV surveillance methods. As such, social media data are promising complements to more traditional data sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Young
- Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jack Lipei Tang
- Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yuanfeixue Nan
- Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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11
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Social-spatial network structures and community ties of egocentric sex and confidant networks: A Chicago case study. Soc Sci Med 2021; 291:114462. [PMID: 34763134 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Exploring how sexual and confidant networks overlap spatially and socially could facilitate a better understanding of sexually transmitted infection risk, as well as help identify areas for interventions. This study aims to examine how a sexual and peer-affiliate network is impacted or shaped by interconnected social relationships and spatial patterns. We used data collected from a sample of 618 young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) and transgender women in Chicago (2013-2014) that includes partner and confidant links, geolocations, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness. We spatialize different types of social networks and examine joint social-spatial community ties to both identify and differentiate social-spatial behavioral patterns. We explore the spatial structures of the social network by comparing ego-alter network residence patterns, visualizing ego-alter community ties in aggregate, and grouping different types of dyad relationships based on their spatial structure. Findings showed overlapping social and sexual networks. Egos with partners residing in more resourced communities furthest away, with wider alter-ego power differentials, also tended to be at greatest risk. Identifying the social-spatial structures of community ties is critical to enhance our understanding of the spatial context of social relationships, and further distill risk heterogeneity in vulnerable populations within an equitable health framework.
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12
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Elopre L, Hussen SA, Ott C, Mugavero MJ, Turan JM. A Qualitative Study: The Journey to Self-Acceptance of Sexual Identity among Young, Black MSM in the South. Behav Med 2021; 47:324-334. [PMID: 33705672 PMCID: PMC8811952 DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2020.1870428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
HIV disparities among Young, Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) persist despite concerted efforts to increase uptake of prevention tools like HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We conducted in-depth interviews with 25 YBMSM (aged 18-29 years old) to understand factors contributing to PrEP access in Birmingham, Alabama. We identified that one major barrier to PrEP uptake was intersectional stigma related to their multiple identities and contributed to lack of feeling able to accept their sexual identities. Facilitators of validation and acceptance of sexual identity were strong social support networks, which participants reported consisted of, not only other gay and bisexual Black men, but also Black women, an unexplored social support group among YBMSM networks. However, participants felt that internal, perceived and experienced homophobia were exacerbated in Southern, Black communities due to perceived values surrounding masculinity, which were reinforced by religious doctrine. Looking forward, public health officials will need to add additional resources to support interventions that have meso-level impact to effectively change social norms as a critical determinant of individual-level prevention practices within this at-risk group and their social networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latesha Elopre
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Sophia A Hussen
- Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University
| | - Corilyn Ott
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Michael J Mugavero
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Janet M Turan
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham
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13
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Morgan E, Dyar C, Hayford CS, Whitton SW, Newcomb ME, Mustanski B. Perceptions of Marijuana Decriminalization Among Young Sexual and Gender Minorities in Chicago: An Initial Measure Validation and Test of Longitudinal Associations with Use. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2021; 6:156-164. [PMID: 33912680 PMCID: PMC8064955 DOI: 10.1089/can.2019.0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a high rate of marijuana use among young sexual and gender minorities (SGM) and, as a result of recent state-level, fragmented marijuana laws, there is also likely high variability in their perceptions of marijuana decriminalization (PMD). Methods: Data came from two cohorts of young SGM (aged 16-29) in Chicago, RADAR and FAB400, recruited from 2015 to 2017 (N=1,114). We developed a measure to assess PMD among this population, performed initial validation, and assessed its relationship to longitudinal changes in patterns of marijuana use and geographic distribution. Results: In multivariable models, mean PMD score was prospectively associated with general (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=2.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46-2.77), but not problematic marijuana use. An increase in perceived decriminalization also predicted a significant increase in odds of general (aOR=1.67; 95% CI: 1.18-2.39) marijuana use. Significant concentrations of high PMD scores existed in across the city. Conclusion: These results suggest further study of longitudinal changes in marijuana use as decriminalization or legalization increases in the U.S. to better understand shifting trends in use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christina Dyar
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Christina S. Hayford
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah W. Whitton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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14
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Social-Environmental Resilience, PrEP Uptake, and Viral Suppression among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men and Young Black Transgender Women: the Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) Study in Chicago. J Urban Health 2020; 97:728-738. [PMID: 32468507 PMCID: PMC7560645 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00425-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) and young black transgender women (TGW) have experienced a stark disparity in HIV prevention and care. Resilience, collective resources to adapt stressors or adversities, may improve HIV prevention and care outcomes. The present study investigated the association of resilience-based factors with PrEP uptake and viral suppression from a socioecological perspective among YBMSM and young black TGW. Data were from the baseline cycle of the Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) Study, an ongoing cohort study of 16-34-year-old YBMSM and young black TGW in Chicago (n = 324). Confidant network-level and neighborhood affiliation variables were created to measure the social-environmental context of resilience. All analyses were stratified by participants' HIV status (184 HIV-negative participants and 140 HIV-positive participants). Among HIV-negative participants, having a parental figure within an individual's confidant network was significantly associated with a greater likelihood of PrEP use. Among HIV-positive participants, confidant network members' awareness of an individual's HIV status was associated with viral suppression. Social support resources from confidant networks could improve HIV prevention and care engagement among YBMSM and young black TGW. Understanding the social and environmental contexts of resilience resource is critical for HIV prevention and care engagement.
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15
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Hotton AL, Chen YT, Schumm P, Khanna AS, Brewer R, Skaathun B, Issema RS, Ramani S, Ramachandran A, Ozik J, Fujimoto K, Harawa NT, Schneider JA. Socio-Structural and Neighborhood Predictors of Incident Criminal Justice Involvement in a Population-Based Cohort of Young Black MSM and Transgender Women. J Urban Health 2020; 97:623-634. [PMID: 32180129 PMCID: PMC7560631 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00428-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women are disproportionately affected by criminal justice involvement (CJI) and HIV. This study recruited 618 young Black MSM and transgender women in Chicago, IL, using respondent-driven sampling between 2013 and 2014. Random effects logistic regression evaluated predictors of incident CJI over 18 months of follow-up. Controlling for respondent age, gender and sexual identity, spirituality (aOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.33-0.96), and presence of a mother figure (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.89) were protective against CJI. Economic hardship (financial or residential instability vs. neither aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.10-4.51), two or more past episodes of CJI vs. none (aOR 2.66, 95% CI 1.40-5.66), and substance use (marijuana use vs. none aOR 2.79, 95% CI 1.23-6.34; other drug use vs. none aOR 4.49, 95% CI 1.66-12.16) were associated with CJI during follow-up. Research to identify and leverage resilience factors that can buffer the effects of socioeconomic marginalization may increase the effectiveness of interventions to address the socio-structural factors that increase the risk for CJI among Black MSM and transgender women. Given the intersection of incarceration, HIV and other STIs, and socio-structural stressors, criminal justice settings are important venues for interventions to reduce health inequities in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Hotton
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Yen-Tyng Chen
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Phil Schumm
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Russell Brewer
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Rodal S Issema
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Santhoshini Ramani
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Arthi Ramachandran
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Ave, L-038, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Jonathan Ozik
- Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Decision and Infrastructure Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, USA
| | | | | | - John A Schneider
- Departments of Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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16
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Grieb SM, Donovan E, White JJ, Miller D, Dangerfield DT. Increasing Opportunities for Spiritual and Religious Supports to Improve HIV-Related Outcomes for Black Sexual Minority Men. J Urban Health 2020; 97:704-714. [PMID: 32728845 PMCID: PMC7560667 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00461-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Given the importance of spirituality and religion in the lives of many Black gay, bisexual, and other Black sexual minority men (SMM) and the need for additional resources to improve HIV outcomes within this population, research on how spiritual and religious support can promote HIV prevention and treatment among Black SMM is greatly needed. We conducted nine focus groups with 52 spiritual and religious Black SMM in Baltimore, Maryland, to explore opportunities for HIV-related programming that incorporates spiritual and/or religious supports. Thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts was conducted using an iterative constant comparison coding process. Participants expressed a desire for more spiritual/religious support in non-church-based settings and identified the use of peer supports, inclusion of prayer and gospel music, and messaging related to the ideas that God is love, the Bible says to treat yourself preciously, and taking care of your health can strengthen your relationship with God as ways in which this could be incorporated into HIV-related programming. Participants living with HIV identified the message of "keeping the faith" as important for maintaining their HIV treatment plans. Participants also expressed a need for parental supports to improve HIV-related outcomes for Black SMM and potentially expand opportunities for spiritual and religious support to Black SMM within the church. Spirituality and religion can influence HIV outcomes for Black SMM, and the strategies identified by Black SMM in this study could aid in designing culturally congruent HIV prevention and treatment programs situated in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Grieb
- Center for Child and Community Health Research, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | | | - Jordan J White
- Department of Health, Behavior & Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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17
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Young LE, Ramachandran A, Schumm LP, Khanna AS, Schneider JA. The potential of online social networking data for augmenting the study of high-risk personal networks among young men who have sex with men at-risk for HIV. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2020; 63:201-212. [PMID: 33100488 PMCID: PMC7583251 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Capturing dynamics in high-risk personal networks is essential for preventing HIV transmission. Online social networking data offer incentive to augment traditional selfreported approaches for network enumeration. To explore what online networks reveal about dynamics among high-risk associates, we examine the relationship between egocentric confidant and sex networks and personal Facebook friendship networks of a cohort of young Black men who have sex with men. Although overlap exists between self-reported and Facebook associates, the stabilities of each were unrelated. Confidants who were also Facebook friends with a respondent were, however, more likely to be retained. Thus, Facebook networks contain stable confidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Young
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Arthi Ramachandran
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Center for Data Science and Public Policy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - L Phillip Schumm
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - John A Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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18
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Quinn KG, Christenson E, Spector A, Amirkhanian Y, Kelly JA. The Influence of Peers on PrEP Perceptions and Use Among Young Black Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Qualitative Examination. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2129-2143. [PMID: 32016815 PMCID: PMC7321862 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01593-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising part of HIV prevention, yet racial disparities in PrEP uptake persist. Evidence indicates that Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) face numerous social and structural barriers to PrEP, including stigma, medical mistrust, and exclusion from the healthcare system. However, little research has examined how social networks can influence PrEP use and help Black GBM overcome these identified barriers. To understand the influence of peers and social networks on Black GBM's perceptions of and decisions about PrEP use, we conducted in-depth interviews with 46 Black GBM in Milwaukee, WI and Cleveland, OH. Data were analyzed using multistage inductive coding and thematic content analysis, using MAXQDA software. Results indicate that participants' primary source of information on PrEP was other Black GBM in their communities. Peers and social networks served three primary functions with regard to PrEP: (1) filling informational gaps left by healthcare providers, (2) increasing trust of PrEP, and (3) reducing PrEP stigma. Participants described the "movers and shakers" in Black LGBT communities who have been influential in educating others and advocating for PrEP. Well-respected vocal advocates for PrEP have emerged in the Black LGBT community as PrEP champions who have successfully influenced young Black GBM's views on PrEP. Our results reveal the role social networks and peer groups can play in increasing PrEP use among Black GBM. Social network interventions may help overcome the stigma and mistrust that are contributing to PrEP disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine G Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Erika Christenson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Antoinette Spector
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Yuri Amirkhanian
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Kelly
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA
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19
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Wood S, Dowshen N, Bauermeister JA, Lalley-Chareczko L, Franklin J, Petsis D, Swyryn M, Barnett K, Weissman GE, Koenig HC, Gross R. Social Support Networks Among Young Men and Transgender Women of Color Receiving HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. J Adolesc Health 2020; 66:268-274. [PMID: 31672523 PMCID: PMC7007865 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to characterize perceived social support for young men and transgender women who have sex with men (YM/TWSM) taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). METHODS Mixed-methods study of HIV-negative YM/TWSM of color prescribed oral PrEP. Participants completed egocentric network inventories characterizing their social support networks and identifying PrEP adherence support figures. A subset (n = 31) completed semistructured interviews exploring adherence support and qualities of PrEP support figures. We calculated proportions of role types (e.g., family), individuals disclosed to regarding PrEP use, and PrEP-supportive individuals within each participant network. Interviews were analyzed using an inductive approach. RESULTS Participants (n = 50) were predominately African American men who have sex with men. Median age was 22 years (interquartile range: 20-23). Biologic family were the most common support figures, reported by 75% of participants (mean family proportion .37 [standard deviation (SD): .31]), followed by 67% reporting friends (mean friend proportion .38 [SD: .36]). Most network members were aware (mean disclosed proportion .74 [SD: .31]) and supportive (mean supportive proportion .87 [SD: .28]) of the participants' PrEP use. Nearly all (98%) participants identified ≥1 figure who provided adherence support; more often friends (48%) than family (36%). Participants characterized support as instrumental (e.g., transportation); emotional (e.g., affection); and social interaction (e.g., taking medication together). Key characteristics of PrEP support figures included closeness, dependability, and homophily (alikeness) with respect to sexual orientation. CONCLUSIONS Although most YM/TWSM identified family in their support networks, friends were most often cited as PrEP adherence support figures. Interventions to increase PrEP adherence should consider integrated social network and family-based approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wood
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Division of Adolescent Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Nadia Dowshen
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Division of Adolescent Medicine 34th and Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - José A. Bauermeister
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, 418 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Joshua Franklin
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Division of Adolescent Medicine 34th and Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Danielle Petsis
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Division of Adolescent Medicine 34th and Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Meghan Swyryn
- Philadelphia FIGHT Community Health Centers, 1233 Locust St. Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Kezia Barnett
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Division of Adolescent Medicine 34th and Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Gary E. Weissman
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Helen C. Koenig
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Philadelphia FIGHT Community Health Centers, 1233 Locust St. Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
| | - Robert Gross
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, 21 S University Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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20
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Teixeira da Silva D, Bouris A, Voisin D, Hotton A, Brewer R, Schneider J. Social Networks Moderate the Syndemic Effect of Psychosocial and Structural Factors on HIV Risk Among Young Black Transgender Women and Men who have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:192-205. [PMID: 31289985 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02575-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between the cumulative effect of psychosocial and structural factors (i.e. syndemic effect) and social networks among young Black transgender women and men who have sex with men (YBTM) remains understudied. A representative cohort of 16-29 year-old YBTM (n = 618) was assessed for syndemic factors [i.e. substance use; community violence; depression; poverty; justice system involvement (JSI)], social network characteristics, condomless anal sex (CAS), group sex (GS), and HIV-infection. The syndemic index significantly increased the odds of CAS, GS, and HIV-infection, and these effects were moderated by network characteristics. Network JSI buffered the effect on CAS, romantic network members buffered the effect on GS, and network age and proportion of family network members buffered the effect on HIV-infection. The proportion of friend network members augmented the effect on GS and HIV-infection. Future research to prevent HIV among YBTM should consider social network approaches that target both structural and psychosocial syndemic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Teixeira da Silva
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Avenue MC 7082, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dexter Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna Hotton
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - John Schneider
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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21
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Duncan DT, Sutton MY, Park SH, Callander D, Kim B, Jeffries WL, Henny KD, Harry-Hernández S, Barber S, Hickson DA. Associations Between Neighborhood Problems and Sexual Behaviors Among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in the Deep South: The MARI Study. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:185-193. [PMID: 31950381 PMCID: PMC7410008 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01619-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
There is a disproportionately high HIV incidence among Black men who have sex with men (MSM) despite equal or lower levels of HIV risk behaviors compared to White MSM. Due to high levels of racial segregation in the U.S., Black MSM have an elevated likelihood of living in neighborhoods that contain psychosocial stressors, which, in turn, may increase behaviors promoting HIV infection. We examined associations between perceived neighborhood problems and sexual behaviors among Black MSM in the Deep South, a population at highest risk of HIV. Data came from the MARI Study, which included Black MSM ages 18-66 years recruited from the Jackson, MS, and Atlanta, GA, metropolitan areas (n = 377). Participants completed questions about neighborhood problems (e.g., excessive noise, heavy traffic/speeding cars and trash/litter) and sexual behaviors (e.g., condomless sex and drug use before or during sex). We used Poisson's regression model with robust standard errors to estimate the adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR; 95% confidence intervals [CI]) of neighborhood problems (coded as tertiles [tertile 1 = low neighborhood problems, tertile 2 = medium neighborhood problems, tertile 3 = high neighborhood problems] as well as continuously) with sexual behaviors, after adjustment for sociodemographic characteristics and other variables. About one-fourth of the sample reported at least one neighborhood problem, with the most common (31.6%) being no/poorly maintained sidewalks, which indicates an infrastructural problem. In multivariable models, compared to those in the lowest tertile, those reporting more neighborhood problems (tertile 2: aPR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.04, 2.14 and tertile 3: aPR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.05, 2.24) reported more drug use before or during sex (p for trend = .027). Neighborhood problems may promote behaviors (e.g., drug use before or during sex) conducive to HIV infection. Structural interventions could improve community infrastructure to reduce neighborhood problems (e.g., no/poorly maintained sidewalks and litter). These interventions may help to reduce HIV incidence among Black MSM in the Deep South.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin T Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, Room 715, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Madeline Y Sutton
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Su Hyun Park
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, Room 715, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Denton Callander
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, Room 715, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Byoungjun Kim
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, Room 715, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - William L Jeffries
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kirk D Henny
- Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Salem Harry-Hernández
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168th Street, Room 715, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Sharrelle Barber
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - DeMarc A Hickson
- Center for Research, Evaluation and Environmental and Policy Change, My Brother's Keeper, Inc, Jackson, MS, USA
- Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc, Washington, DC, USA
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22
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Young LE, Fujimoto K, Alon L, Zhang L, Schneider JA. The multiplex social environments of young Black men who have sex with men: How online and offline social structures impact HIV prevention and sex behavior engagement. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL STRUCTURE : JOSS 2019; 20:70-95. [PMID: 32855626 PMCID: PMC7449318 DOI: 10.21307/joss-2019-007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) remain disproportionately affected by HIV. The social networks in which YBMSM are embedded are generally understood to be critical factors in understanding their vulnerability. In this study, we acknowledge the relational richness of YBMSMs' social environments (what we define as multiplexity) and their increasing prioritization of online social networking sites (SNS). Specifically, we investigate whether protective and/or risky features of YBMSMs' Facebook friendships and group affiliations are related to their HIV prevention and sex behavior engagement, while also accounting for features of their offline confidant (or support) and sex networks. Using data from a population-based cohort study of YBMSM living in Chicago (N=268), we perform a series of multiple logistic regression analyses to examine associations between features of YBMSMs' Facebook, confidant, and sexual networks with three prevention outcomes and three sex behavior outcomes, while also controlling for factors at the individual and structural levels. Results show that network features play a more significant role in predicting engagement in sex behaviors than prevention behaviors. Specifically, having more confidants, having confidants who are family members, meeting sex partners online, having more YBMSM Facebook friends, belonging to Facebook groups with an LGBTQ focus, and having greater subject diversity in one's Facebook group affiliations were significantly associated with one or more sex behavior outcomes. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of our findings for HIV prevention intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Young
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kayo Fujimoto
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Leigh Alon
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Liang Zhang
- Harris School of Public Policy, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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23
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Qiao J, Guo Y, Zhu Y, Hong YA, Xu Z, Zeng C, Zhang H, Cai W, Li L, Liu C, Kellstedt DK. Gender differences in the relationship of sexual partnership characteristics and inconsistent condom use among people living with HIV in China. AIDS Care 2019; 32:128-135. [PMID: 31181956 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1622632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have examined the relationship between inconsistent condom use and sexual partnership characteristics among people living with HIV (PLWH). The current study focused on such association and its gender differences. The study was conducted in a large hospital in South China in 2013. A total of 320 dyads (PLWH indexes and their sexual partners) were recruited from an outpatient clinic using convenience sampling. The proportion of inconsistent condom use in the last six months among female indexes was higher than that among male indexes (52.4% vs. 43.6%). Of sexual partnership characteristics, HIV seropositive status was a risk factor for inconsistent condom use for both male and female indexes (aOR = 2.32, 95%CI = 1.15∼4.66, aOR = 3.09, 95%CI = 1.10∼8.67, respectively). For male indexes, lower educational level was also a risk factor (aOR = 2.39, 95%CI = 1.23∼4.67); while having had emotionally intimate relationships was a protective factor (aOR = 0.40, 95%CI = 0.21∼0.77). For female indexes, receiving material support was a risk factor (aOR = 10.17, 95%CI = 2.13∼48.61) and receiving health-related advice was a protective factor (aOR = 0.11, 95%CI = 0.02∼0.55). Future HIV interventions for PLWH need to be gender-sensitive and include their sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Qiao
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Guo
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Center for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,Sun Yat-sen Global Health Institute, Institute of State Governance, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yajing Zhu
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Y Alicia Hong
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Zhimeng Xu
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengbo Zeng
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanxi Zhang
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiping Cai
- Department of Infectious Disease, Guangzhou Number Eight People's Hospital, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Linghua Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Guangzhou Number Eight People's Hospital, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Guangzhou Number Eight People's Hospital, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Debra K Kellstedt
- School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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24
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Duncan DT, Hickson DA, Goedel WC, Callander D, Brooks B, Chen YT, Hanson H, Eavou R, Khanna AS, Chaix B, Regan SD, Wheeler DP, Mayer KH, Safren SA, Carr Melvin S, Draper C, Magee-Jackson V, Brewer R, Schneider JA. The Social Context of HIV Prevention and Care among Black Men Who Have Sex with Men in Three U.S. Cities: The Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1922. [PMID: 31151275 PMCID: PMC6603520 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16111922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: In many parts of the world, stark racial disparities in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence, incidence, prevention, and care outcomes persist among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), with Black MSM significantly impacted in the United States (U.S.). Individual-level characteristics, including sexual behaviors and socioeconomic status, do not fully account for racial/ethnic disparities in HIV among MSM. We hypothesize that neighborhood contexts and network characteristics influence risk for HIV infection as well as HIV-related prevention and care behaviors. As such, the study design includes the use of real-time geospatial methods and in-depth assessments of multiple network typologies to investigate the impact of neighborhood and network-level factors on HIV prevention and treatment among Black MSM residing in longstanding priority HIV elimination areas in the U.S., namely Chicago, Illinois and in the Deep South (Jackson, Mississippi and New Orleans, Louisiana) (n = 450, n = 50, and n = 100, respectively). We describe the design, sampling methods, data collection, data management methods, and preliminary findings of the ongoing 'Neighborhoods and Networks (N2) Cohort Study'. Methods/Design: N2 employs a prospective longitudinal design. The sample includes Black MSM participants in Chicago recruited via respondent-driven sampling and assessed every six months over two years of follow-up. Participants enrolled in Jackson and New Orleans are being recruited through existing health and community services and assessed every six months over one year of follow-up. Mobility within and between neighborhoods is being assessed using global positioning system (GPS) technology. Social and sexual networks among Black MSM are being studied through egocentric network inventories as well as newer methods of creating meso-level networks that involve social media (Facebook) and mobile phone contacts. Key HIV prevention outcomes such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care engagement, and HIV/STI (sexually transmitted infections) biomarkers will be examined at baseline and follow-up. Results: As of 31 December 2018, a total of 361 men were enrolled across all study sites: 259 in Chicago and 102 in the Deep South (75 in New Orleans and 27 in Jackson). At baseline, participants ranged in age from 17 to 65 years old (mean = 34.3, standard deviation = 5.1) with 123 men (34.1%) self-reported as HIV positive. While HIV treatment levels were similar between sites, men in the Deep South reported higher rates of adherence than men in Chicago (63.3% versus 49.4%, p = 0.03). Sexual risk profiles were mainly the same between men from different study sites, with 22.9% of men in Chicago and 28.9% in the Deep South reporting consistent condom use during vaginal and anal sex (p = 0.26). Regarding their home neighborhoods, men in the Deep South were more likely than those in Chicago to characterize theirs as having a good reputation (43.1% versus 24.7%, p < 0.001) and as being safe (37.3% versus 21.2%, p = 0.002). Conclusions: The focus on Black MSM in the N2 Study will allow for a nuanced exploration of the attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and practices of a diverse group of Black MSM. The study is also positioned to provide novel insight about neighborhood and network characteristics that influence HIV-related behaviors. A health equity framework ensures that Black MSM are not explicitly or implicitly deemed as deviant, disordered, or the non-reference group. Findings from N2 will provide guidance for the implementation of more impactful HIV prevention interventions that engage a diverse population of Black MSM as we work toward HIV elimination in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin T Duncan
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - DeMarc A Hickson
- Center for Research, Evaluation, and Environmental & Policy Change, My Brother's Keeper, Inc., Jackson, MS 39202, USA.
- Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc., Washington, DC 20010, USA.
| | - William C Goedel
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Denton Callander
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Brandon Brooks
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Yen-Tyng Chen
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Hillary Hanson
- Survey Lab, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Rebecca Eavou
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Basile Chaix
- Pierre-Louis Institute of Epidemiology Public Health (UMR-S 1136), Faculté de Médecine Saint-Antoine, Sorbonne Universités, 75012 Paris, France.
| | - Seann D Regan
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | | | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Steven A Safren
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA.
| | - Sandra Carr Melvin
- Center for Research, Evaluation, and Environmental & Policy Change, My Brother's Keeper, Inc., Jackson, MS 39202, USA.
| | - Cordarian Draper
- Center for Research, Evaluation, and Environmental & Policy Change, My Brother's Keeper, Inc., Jackson, MS 39202, USA.
| | | | - Russell Brewer
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - John A Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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25
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Skaathun B, Voisin DR, Cornwell B, Lauderdale DS, Schneider JA. A Longitudinal Examination of Factors Associated with Network Bridging Among YMSM: Implications for HIV Prevention. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1326-1338. [PMID: 30136156 PMCID: PMC6386635 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2258-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Social-environmental factors may be associated with social network stability, which has implications for HIV acquisition. However, the link between social-environmental factors, network composition and HIV risk has not been examined previously among a city-population based sample of young Black men who have sex with Men (YBMSM). Respondent driven sampling was used to recruit a cohort of 618 YMBSM. Respondents were evaluated at baseline, 9 and 18 months beginning June 2013. A logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between bridging (i.e. having non-redundant contacts in one's network, indicating network instability) and social-environmental factors and HIV risk factors between respondents, and a conditional logit model was used to assess these relationships within respondents over time. Bridging was associated with adverse social-environmental factors and higher HIV risk, indicating that bridging may be on the explanatory pathway. Future studies should assess the extent to which network stability factors mitigate HIV risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Skaathun
- Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gillman Dr., La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA.
| | - Dexter R Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Diane S Lauderdale
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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26
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Zarwell M, Robinson WT. Network Properties Among Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men Vary by Race. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:1315-1325. [PMID: 30725398 DOI: 10.1007/s/10461-019-02416-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The HIV burden among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) may be related to variations in network characteristics of the individual's social and sexual network. This study investigates variations in network properties among 188 Black and 295 White GBM recruited in New Orleans during the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance in 2014. Participants described up to five people who provided social support and five sex partners in the past 3 months. Network properties and network dissimilarity indicators were aggregated to the participant level as means or proportions and examined using PROC GLM. White participants reported larger networks (p = 0.0027), had known network members longer (p = 0.0033), and reported more substance use (p < 0.0001) within networks. Black participants reported networks with fewer men (p = 0.0056) and younger members (p = 0.0110) than those of White GBM. Network properties among GBM differ by race in New Orleans which may inform prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Zarwell
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N Summit Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
- School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - William T Robinson
- School of Public Health, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Louisiana Office of Public Health STD/HIV Program, New Orleans, LA, USA
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27
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Abstract
The HIV burden among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) may be related to variations in network characteristics of the individual's social and sexual network. This study investigates variations in network properties among 188 Black and 295 White GBM recruited in New Orleans during the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance in 2014. Participants described up to five people who provided social support and five sex partners in the past 3 months. Network properties and network dissimilarity indicators were aggregated to the participant level as means or proportions and examined using PROC GLM. White participants reported larger networks (p = 0.0027), had known network members longer (p = 0.0033), and reported more substance use (p < 0.0001) within networks. Black participants reported networks with fewer men (p = 0.0056) and younger members (p = 0.0110) than those of White GBM. Network properties among GBM differ by race in New Orleans which may inform prevention interventions.
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28
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Watson DL, Liao C, Ridgway J, Schneider JA. Behavioral characteristics and their association with syphilis seroprevalence among a cohort of young Black men who have sex with men. Int J STD AIDS 2019; 30:396-403. [PMID: 30621549 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418816449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to describe the sociodemographic characteristics and behavioral factors that are associated with syphilis seroprevalence in a cohort of young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) in Chicago, USA (n = 606). The weighted syphilis seroprevalence in the study population was 29.2% (95% CI 23.9, 35.1). A bivariate probit multiple regression model was used to estimate the outcomes. Characteristics that were positively associated with syphilis seropositivity included being age 19-20, 21-24, and at least age 25 compared to the reference group (age 16-18 years old) (0.72 [95% CI 0.18, 1.25], 1.40 [95% CI 0.68, 2.13], and 1.34 [95% CI 0.75,1.94], respectively), using social media to meet sexual partners (0.33 [95% CI 0.05, 0.61]), using condoms more often (0.39 [95% CI 0.02, 0.76]), and a history of criminal justice involvement (0.25 [95% CI 0.06, 0.44]). Our study results suggest that among YBMSM in Chicago, interventions promoting condom use may be less effective for syphilis prevention compared to HIV prevention in this population. The contribution of nonpenetrative sex to syphilis prevalence requires additional research as does how best to implement routine syphilis screening and treatment for YBMSM in the context of ongoing syphilis transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dovie L Watson
- 1 Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chuanhong Liao
- 2 Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jessica Ridgway
- 3 Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- 2 Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,3 Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,4 Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,5 NORC, Chicago, IL, USA
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29
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Chen YT, Issema RS, Khanna AS, Pho MT, Schneider JA. Prescription Opioid Use in a Population-Based Sample of Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Longitudinal Cohort Study. Subst Use Misuse 2019; 54:1991-2000. [PMID: 31198077 PMCID: PMC6764892 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2019.1625400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Prescription opioid use (POU) among young adults is increasing. This represents a major public health concern due to the increased risks of opioid use misuse and opioid-related overdose. Limited research has examined the POU among young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM), a diverse group experiencing continued increases in HIV incidence over the past decade. Objective: This study aims to examine the prevalence and both the individual and network characteristics of POU among YBMSM. Methods: Data were from a longitudinal cohort study of 16-29 year old YBMSM (N = 514) between 2013 and 2016 in Chicago. Bivariate and multivariable associations were estimated using general estimating equations (GEE). Results: Approximately 4.2% of YBMSM reported POU in the past 12 months with a cumulative incidence rate of 4.1% over the 18-month follow-up period. YBMSM having criminal justice involvements, experiencing violence, or using any illicit drug other than marijuana in the past 12 months were more likely to report POU in the past 12 months. The presence of a mother figure, however, was associated with a decreased risk of POU in the past 12 months, while engaging in condomless anal sex with their named sexual partners was associated with an increased risk of POU in the past 12 months. Conclusions: This is one of the first studies to describe POU among a population-based sample of YBMSM. The high incidence rate of POU among YBMSM is alarming, and it underscores the need for further analysis on POU among this key population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Tyng Chen
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , Chicago , IL , USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Rodal S Issema
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , Chicago , IL , USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , Chicago , IL , USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Mai T Pho
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , Chicago , IL , USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
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30
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Ezell JM, Ferreira MJ, Duncan DT, Schneider JA. The Social and Sexual Networks of Black Transgender Women and Black Men Who Have Sex with Men: Results from a Representative Sample. Transgend Health 2018; 3:201-209. [PMID: 30581993 PMCID: PMC6301432 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2018.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Little research has evaluated the social and sexual network-related health outcomes of young black transgender women (TGW) or compared these outcomes with those of black men who have sex with men (MSM). Social network analysis offers one potent means of understanding the dynamics driving the broad spectrum of adverse outcomes experienced by these subgroups. Methods: We examined the social and sexual health network traits of 618 black individuals assigned male at birth who have sex with men, 47 (7.6%) of whom identified as TGW. Using respondent-driven sampling, data collection occurred over three waves between 2013 and 2016, in Chicago, Illinois. Univariate, logistic regression, and confidant and sexual network analyses were conducted to characterize dynamic network features. Results: TGW's mean age was 22.1 (standard deviation ±2.6). TGW's sexual networks were significantly less stable (stability ratio of 0.175 vs. 0.278 among MSM, p=0.03) and had greater network turnover (turnover ratio of 0.825 vs. 0.735, p=0.04). TGW also had significantly more sex partners (7.6 vs. 4.0, p=0.0002) and exchange sex (odds ratio=2.97; 95% confidence interval: 1.66–5.32, p<0.001), lower rates of employment (39.6% vs. 71.1%, p<0.001), and more reported an income <$20,000 (93.5% vs. 80.8%, p=0.029). Within confidant networks, TGW had a borderline significantly higher network turnover ratio (0.703 vs. 0.625, p=0.06). Furthermore, both TGW and MSM had high, but similar, HIV rates (42.3% vs. 30.6%, respectively; p=0.17). There were no significant structural network differences vis-à-vis mean degree (p=0.46), betweenness centrality (p=0.40), closeness centrality (p=0.18), or average shortest path length (borderline statistically significant at p=0.06). Conclusion: Using data from a representative sample of younger black individuals, we observed black TGW have less sexual network stability in contrast to black MSM but comparable structural network features. We further observed that both groups, and black TGW especially, possess considerable system-level, socioeconomic, and sexual health burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerel M Ezell
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Sociology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matthew J Ferreira
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dustin T Duncan
- NYU Spatial Epidemiology Lab, Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - John A Schneider
- Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.,Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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Morgan E, Skaathun B, Schneider JA. Sexual, Social, and Genetic Network Overlap: A Socio-Molecular Approach Toward Public Health Intervention of HIV. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:1528-1534. [PMID: 30252515 PMCID: PMC6187777 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine how network-level factors influence individual risk of HIV acquisition, which is key in preventing disease transmission. METHODS We recruited a cohort of young Black men who have sex with men (n = 618) in Chicago, Illinois, from 2013 to 2016. We identified potential molecular ties via pairwise genetic distance analysis of HIV pol sequences with links inferred between individuals whose sequences were 1.5% or less genetically distant. We defined clusters as 1 or more connections to another individual. We conducted entity resolution between confidant, sexual, referral, and Facebook network data between network types. RESULTS Of 266 (43.0%) participants identified as HIV-positive, we obtained 86 (32.3%) genetic sequences. Of these, 35 (40.7%) were linked to 1 or more other sequence; however, none of these were identified in first-, second-, or third-degree confidant and sexual networks. Minimal overlap existed between genetic and Facebook ties. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that HIV transmissions may have occurred before elicitation of network data; future studies should expand the data collection timeframe to more accurately determine risk networks. Virtual network data, such as Facebook, may be particularly useful in developing one's risk environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- All of the authors are with both the Department of Public Health Sciences and the Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. John A. Schneider is also affiliated with the Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
| | - Britt Skaathun
- All of the authors are with both the Department of Public Health Sciences and the Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. John A. Schneider is also affiliated with the Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
| | - John A Schneider
- All of the authors are with both the Department of Public Health Sciences and the Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. John A. Schneider is also affiliated with the Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
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Young LE, Fujimoto K, Schneider JA. HIV Prevention and Sex Behaviors as Organizing Mechanisms in a Facebook Group Affiliation Network Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2018. [PMID: 29536285 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2087-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Online social networking sites (SNS)-the Internet-based platforms that enable connection and communication between users-are increasingly salient social environments for young adults and, consequently, offer tremendous opportunity for HIV behavioral research and intervention among vulnerable populations like young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Drawing from a cohort of 525 young Black MSM (YBMSM) living in Chicago, IL, USA April 2014-May 2015, we conducted social network analysis, estimating an exponential random graph model (ERGM) to model YBMSM's group affiliations on Facebook in relation to their sex behaviors and HIV prevention traits. A group's privacy setting-public, closed, or secret-was also modeled as a potential moderator of that relationship. Findings reveal that HIV positive individuals were more likely to affiliate with Facebook groups, while those who engaged in group sex were less likely to do so. When it came to the privacy of groups, we learned that HIV positive individuals tended not to belong to groups with greater privacy (e.g., closed and secret groups), while individuals who engaged in group sex and those who engaged in regular HIV testing were more likely to belong to those groups. Results also showed that individuals who engaged in condomless sex showed significant signs of clustering around the same set of groups. HIV positive individuals, on the other hand, were significantly less likely to demonstrate clustering. Implications for interventions and future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay E Young
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA.
| | - Kayo Fujimoto
- Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, 5837 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
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Soler JH, Caldwell CH, Córdova D, Harper G, Bauermeister JA. Who counts as family? Family typologies, family support, and family undermining among young adult gay and bisexual men. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2018; 15:123-138. [PMID: 29713394 PMCID: PMC5922785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Gay and bisexual men may form chosen families in addition to or in place of families of origin. However, the characteristics of these diverse families remain largely unexamined in the quantitative literature. The purpose of this study was to develop a family typology based on responses from a racially and ethnically diverse sample of young adult gay and bisexual men (YGBM) recruited from the Detroit Metropolitan Area (N=350; 18-29 years old). To explore the role of family, we then examined family social support and social undermining in relation to YGBM psychological distress within different family types. A series of multivariate regressions were used to examine associations between family social support and social undermining with depression and anxiety outcomes. The majority (88%) of YGBM included family of origin in their definitions of family and 63% indicated having chosen families. Associations between family social processes and psychological outcomes varied by type of family, suggesting that family composition shapes how perceptions of support and undermining relate to experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Chosen families play a prominent role in the lives of YGBM and should not be overlooked in family research. Findings also highlight the importance of examining co-occurring family social support and social stress processes to further address psychological distress symptoms among YGBM.
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Charles P, Gorman-Smith D, Schoeny M, Sudec L, Tolan P, Henry D. Fathers' Criminal Behavior and Involvement With Children: The Moderating Role of Family Relationships. JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR SOCIAL WORK AND RESEARCH 2018; 9:131-157. [PMID: 30338029 PMCID: PMC6188635 DOI: 10.1086/695386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Research indicates that fathers' criminal behavior can be problematic for children through multiple pathways, yet few studies have examined the effect of fathers' kinship networks in this process. This study examines the association between fathers' criminal behavior and involvement with their children and the extent to which a father's relationships with individuals in his extended family network moderate this association. METHOD Hierarchical linear modeling was used to predict fathers' involvement using data from a longitudinal intergenerational study of 335 children and 149 low-income, minority fathers. Measures included 8 father-involvement outcomes, a measure of fathers' criminal behavior, and 2 moderator variables. RESULTS High-quality relationships between fathers and their male relatives moderated the negative effect of criminal behavior on measures of fathers' involvement. Criminal behavior was only associated with decreasing levels of father involvement when fathers had low-quality relationships with male relatives. CONCLUSIONS Strong and affirmative relationships-with male relatives specifically-may attenuate the adverse effects of antisocial and criminal behavior on fathers' involvement in at-risk families. Implications for tailoring practice to improve relationships between fathers and male relatives and to enhance fathers' prosocial involvement are noted.
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Network Centrality and Geographical Concentration of Social and Service Venues that Serve Young Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:3578-3589. [PMID: 28220310 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1711-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study examines network centrality of inter-venue networks formed by collaboration, competition, and sponsorship relationships among venues that serve young men who have sex with men (MSM) aged 16-29 years in relation to their geographical concentrations in Chicago, Illinois, and Houston, Texas. Our data on the physical venues comprised 116 venues in Chicago and 102 venues in Houston. We examined the relationship between the network centrality of different relations and the geographical intensity among these venues, and considered neighborhood-level socioeconomic determinants of health. The results indicate that young MSM-serving social and service venues found in close physical proximity to one another tend to have large centrality indegree values based on competition in both cities, and based on collaboration only in Chicago. No evidence, however, was found that occupying a central position in the sponsorship networks was related to geographic concentration. Combined, these results suggest that HIV prevention interventions should consider the organizing force for competition. Such a strategy could result in better services. However there may still be potential for overlap and redundancy in services at the expense of under-served regions where proven interventions could have the greatest impact.
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Bouris A, Jaffe K, Eavou R, Liao C, Kuhns L, Voisin D, Schneider JA. Project nGage: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Dyadic Network Support Intervention to Retain Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men in HIV Care. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:3618-3629. [PMID: 29079949 PMCID: PMC5705428 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1954-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
HIV-positive young black MSM (YBMSM) experience poor outcomes along the HIV care continuum, yet few interventions have been developed expressly for YBMSM retention in care. Project nGage was a randomized controlled trial conducted across five Chicago clinics with 98 HIV-positive YBMSM aged 16-29 between 2012 and 2015. The intervention used a social network elicitation approach with index YBMSM (n = 45) to identify and recruit a support confidant (SC) to the study. Each index-SC dyad met with a social worker to improve HIV-care knowledge, activate dyadic social support, and develop a retention in care plan. Each index and SC also received four mini-booster sessions. Control participants (n = 53) received treatment as usual. Surveys and medical records at baseline, 3-, and 12-months post-intervention assessed visit history (3 or more visits over 12 months; primary outcome), and sociodemographic, network, social-psychological, and behavioral factors. At baseline, there were no differences in age (M = 23.8 years), time since diagnosis (M ≤ 2 years), clinic visits in the previous 12 months (M = 4.1), and medication adherence (68.6 ≥ 90% adherence). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, intervention participants were 3.01 times more likely to have had at least 3 provider visits (95% CI 1.0-7.3) than were control participants over 12 months. Project nGage demonstrates preliminary efficacy in improving retention in care among YBMSM. Results suggest that engaging supportive network members may improve key HIV care continuum outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, 969 E. 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Kaitlyn Jaffe
- Department of Sociology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rebecca Eavou
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chuanhong Liao
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa Kuhns
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dexter Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, 969 E. 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - John A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, 969 E. 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Schneider JA, Lancki N, Schumm P. At the intersection of criminal justice involvement and sexual orientation: Dynamic networks and health among a population-based sample of young Black men who have sex with men. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2017; 51:73-87. [PMID: 29062165 PMCID: PMC5650246 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Mass incarceration of young Black men has a significant impact on their network composition and stability that, in turn, may have major implications for health and well-being. A sub-group of young Black men with criminal justice involvement (CJI) identify as gay, bisexual or are non-identified men who have sex with men (hereafter MSM). This paper focuses on the potential effects of CJI on the composition of Black MSM social and sexual networks, their stability over time, and concomitant health and social outcomes. We use data from the UConnect study, a population-based cohort of young Black MSM 16-29 years of age (n=618) selected using respondent-driven sampling in Chicago from 2013-2016. Both confidant and sexual network name generators and interpreters were administered at 9-month intervals over three waves of data collection. Ego and dyadic-level data were collected on behaviors prevalent among MSM and including factors associated with network CJI, network stability, and health outcomes. Generalized Structural Equation Models (GSEM) were utilized to determine the relationship between CJI network composition, network stability and behaviors prevalent among young Black MSM and their networks. In the UConnect cohort, 46% had at least once been detained, arrested or spent time in jail or prison. In addition, 20% of participants reported incident CJI over the study period. Respondents with a history of CJI were significantly more likely to have CJI homophily in their confidant and sexual networks. Multivariate analyses demonstrate that the association between one's history of CJI, housing instability and drug use is partially explained by one's network CJI. In addition, a higher prevalence of network CJI is associated with increased turnover in the confidant network, and this network instability is also related to important health and social outcomes. This analysis describes the networks of criminal justice involved men among a representative sample of young Black MSM and demonstrates the relationship between CJI network homophily, network stability and their impact on several key health and social outcomes relevant to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago
| | - N Lancki
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago
| | - P Schumm
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago
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Interpersonal Attacks on the Dignity of Members of HIV Key Populations: A Descriptive and Exploratory Study. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:2561-2578. [PMID: 27752870 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1578-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Attacks on peoples' dignity help to produce and maintain stigmatization and interpersonal hostility. As part of an effort to develop innovative measures of possible pathways between structural interventions or socially-disruptive Big Events and HIV outbreaks, we developed items to measure dignity denial. These measures were administered to 300 people who inject drugs (PWID), 260 high-risk heterosexuals who do not inject drugs, and 191 men who have sex with men who do not inject drugs (MSM). All of the PWID and many of the high risk heterosexuals and MSM were referred to our study in 2012-2015 by a large New York city study that used respondent-driven sampling; the others were recruited by chain-referral. Members of all three key populations experienced attacks on their dignity fairly often and also reported frequently seeing others' dignity being attacked. Relatives are major sources of dignity attacks. MSM were significantly more likely to report having their dignity attacked by police officers than were the other groups. 40 % or more of each key population reported that dignity attacks are followed "sometimes" or more often both by using more drugs and also by using more alcohol. Dignity attacks and their health effects require more research and creative interventions, some of which might take untraditional forms like social movements.
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Morgan E, Nyaku AN, D’Aquila RT, Schneider JA. Determinants of HIV Phylogenetic Clustering in Chicago Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men From the uConnect Cohort. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2017; 75:265-270. [PMID: 28328553 PMCID: PMC5472497 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phylogenetic analysis determines similarities among HIV genetic sequences from persons infected with HIV, identifying clusters of transmission. We determined characteristics associated with both membership in an HIV transmission cluster and the number of clustered sequences among a cohort of young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) in Chicago. METHODS Pairwise genetic distances of HIV-1 pol sequences were collected during 2013-2016. Potential transmission ties were identified among HIV-infected persons whose sequences were ≤1.5% genetically distant. Putative transmission pairs were defined as ≥1 tie to another sequence. We then determined demographic and risk attributes associated with both membership in an HIV transmission cluster and the number of ties to the sequences from other persons in the cluster. RESULTS Of 86 available sequences, 31 (36.0%) were tied to ≥1 other sequence. Through multivariable analyses, we determined that those who reported symptoms of depression and those who had a higher number of confidants in their network had significantly decreased odds of membership in transmission clusters. We found that those who had unstable housing and who reported heavy marijuana use had significantly more ties to other individuals within transmission clusters, whereas those identifying as bisexual, those participating in group sex, and those with higher numbers of sexual partners had significantly fewer ties. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential for combining phylogenetic and individual and network attributes to target HIV control efforts to persons with potentially higher transmission risk, as well as suggesting some unappreciated specific predictors of transmission risk among YBMSM in Chicago for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Amesika N Nyaku
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA
| | | | - John A Schneider
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, USA
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McCullagh C, Quinn K, Voisin DR, Schneider J. A longitudinal examination of factors associated with social support satisfaction among HIV-positive young Black men who have sex with men. AIDS Care 2017. [PMID: 28631491 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2017.1332333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the long-term predictors of social support satisfaction among HIV-positive young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). Data were collected across three waves between October 2012 and November 2014 as part of the baseline assessment from Project nGage, a preliminary efficacy randomized control study examining the role of social support in improving HIV care among YBMSM. The sample included 92 YBMSM aged 18-29. Major results controlling for age, education and intervention effects indicated that psychological health, social network size, and education at baseline predicted differences in social support satisfaction at Wave 3, with no significant effects based on length of HIV diagnosis. Therefore, interventions that are intended to promote the quality of life for YBMSM and their engagement and retention in HIV care must focus on their psychological health concerns and network size.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katherine Quinn
- b Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine , Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Medical College of Wisconsin , Milwaukee , WI , USA.,c STI/HIV Intervention Network , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Dexter R Voisin
- a School of School Work , Columbia University , New York , NY , USA.,c STI/HIV Intervention Network , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,d School of Social Service Administration , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,e Third Coast Center for AIDS Research , University of Chicago and Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA.,f Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - John Schneider
- c STI/HIV Intervention Network , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,e Third Coast Center for AIDS Research , University of Chicago and Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA.,f Chicago Center for HIV Elimination , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,g Department of Medicine , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA.,h Department of Public Health Sciences , University of Chicago , Chicago , IL , USA
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Voisin DR, Quinn K, Kim DH, Schneider J. A Longitudinal Analysis of Antiretroviral Adherence Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men. J Adolesc Health 2017; 60:411-416. [PMID: 28043754 PMCID: PMC5366075 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2016.10.428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) experience poorer antiretroviral therapy (ART) medication adherence relative to their white counterparts. However, few studies have longitudinally examined factors that may correlate with various classifications of ART adherence among this population, which was the primary aim of this study. METHODS Project nGage was a randomized controlled trial conducted across five Chicago clinics from 2012 to 2015. Survey and medical records data were collected at baseline and 3- and 12-month periods to assess whether psychological distress, HIV stigma, substance use, family acceptance, social support, and self-efficacy predicted ART medication adherence among 92 YBMSM ages 16-29 years. RESULTS Major results controlling for the potential effects of age, education level, employment, and intervention condition indicated that participants with high versus low medication adherence were less likely to report daily/weekly alcohol or marijuana use, had higher family acceptance, and exhibited greater self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS These findings identity important factors that can be targeted in clinical and program interventions to help improve ART medication adherence for YBMSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dexter R. Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Katherine Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Dong Ha Kim
- Sungkyunkwan University, Department of Social Work, Seoul, South Korea
| | - John Schneider
- Third Coast Center for AIDS Research, University of Chicago and Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA,Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA,Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Schneider JA, Kozloski M, Michaels S, Skaathun B, Voisin D, Lancki N, Morgan E, Khanna A, Green K, Coombs RW, Friedman SR, Laumann E, Schumm P. Criminal justice involvement history is associated with better HIV care continuum metrics among a population-based sample of young black MSM. AIDS 2017; 31:159-165. [PMID: 27662544 PMCID: PMC5127721 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine how history of criminal justice involvement (CJI) is related to HIV care continuum metrics among young black MSM 16-29 years of age. DESIGN Population-based survey. METHODS From 2013 to 2014, a representative sample of young black MSM was generated using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) in Chicago (n = 618). HIV antibody/antigen and RNA testing were performed using dry blood spots. Factors assessed in the care continuum included HIV testing, HIV diagnosis, linkage to care within 6 months, retention in care, adherence to antiretrovirals, and viral suppression. RDS-weighted regression models examined the associations between history of CJI, including frequency of CJI and durations of stay and each of the continuum metrics. RESULTS A final analytic sample of 618 participants was generated through RDS chains of up to 13 waves in length and with a mean of 2.1 recruits per participant. At enrollment, 40.8% had prior history of CJI and 34.6% were HIV seropositive. Of persons reporting HIV seropositive status, 58.4% were linked to care, 40.2% were retained in care, 32.2% were adherent to antiretrovirals, and 24.3% were virally suppressed. Any CJI history was associated with the overall care continuum (adjusted odds ratio = 2.35; 95% confidence interval 1.13-4.88) and was most associated with increased retention in care [adjusted odds ratio = 3.72 (1.77-7.84)]. Having one CJI experience and detention for only 1 day was associated with better retention in care compared with no or more frequent CJI. CONCLUSION Those with a previous history of CJI were more successful in achieving most HIV care continuum metrics. Frequent and cycling CJI, however, was detrimental to HIV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Schneider
- aDepartment of Public Health Sciences bDepartment of Medicine cNORC at the University of Chicago, University of Chicago dChicago Center for HIV Elimination eSchool of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois fDepartment of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington gNational Development and Research Institutes, New York, New York hDepartment of Sociology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Quinn K, Voisin DR, Bouris A, Jaffe K, Kuhns L, Eavou R, Schneider J. Multiple Dimensions of Stigma and Health Related Factors Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2017; 21:207-216. [PMID: 27233249 PMCID: PMC5124546 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1439-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study is among the first to examine the association between multiple domains of HIV-related stigma and health-related correlates including viral load and medication adherence among young Black men who have sex with men (N = 92). Individual logistic regressions were done to examine the hypothesized relationships between HIV-related stigma and various health and psychosocial outcomes. In addition to examining total stigma, we also examined four domains of HIV stigma. Findings revealed the various domains of stigma had differential effects on health-related outcomes. Individuals who reported higher levels of total stigma and personalized stigma were less likely to be virally suppressed (OR 0.96, 95 % CI 0.91-1.00 and OR 0.50, 95 % CI 0.25-1.02, respectively). Concerns about public attitudes toward HIV were positively related to medication adherence (OR 2.18, 95 % CI 1.20-3.94) and psychological distress (OR 5.02, 95 % CI 1.54-16.34). The various domains of HIV stigma differentially affected health and psychosocial outcomes, and our findings suggest that some forms of HIV stigma may significantly affect viral load and medication adherence among this population. Stigma-informed approaches to care and treatment are needed, along with incorporated psychological and social supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Quinn
- Center for AIDS Intervention Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, 2071 N. Summit, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, USA.
| | - Dexter R Voisin
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alida Bouris
- School of Social Service Administration, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kate Jaffe
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa Kuhns
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rebecca Eavou
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John Schneider
- STI/HIV Intervention Network, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Morgan E, Khanna AS, Skaathun B, Michaels S, Young L, Duvoisin R, Chang M, Voisin D, Cornwell B, Coombs RW, Friedman SR, Schneider JA. Marijuana Use Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex With Men and the HIV Care Continuum: Findings From the uConnect Cohort. Subst Use Misuse 2016; 51:1751-9. [PMID: 27556866 PMCID: PMC5031235 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2016.1197265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) are at highest risk for HIV seroconversion in the United States. Successful movement through the HIV care continuum is an important intervention for limiting onwards HIV transmission. OBJECTIVE Little data exists on how substances most commonly used by YBMSM, such as marijuana, are related to the HIV continuum, which represents the primary aim of this study. METHODS A cohort of YBMSM (n = 618) was generated through respondent-driven sampling. Frequency of marijuana use and marijuana use as a sex-drug were assessed across the HIV care continuum using weighted logistic regression models. RESULTS Study participants reported more intermittent marijuana use (n = 254, 56.2%) compared to heavy use (n = 198, 43.8%). Our sample contained 212 (34.3%) HIV seropositive participants of which 52 (24.5%) were unaware of their HIV positive status. Study participants who were heavy marijuana users were more likely to be unaware of their HIV seropositive status (AOR: 4.18; 95% CI 1.26, 13.89). All other stages in the care continuum demonstrated no significant differences between those who use marijuana intermittently or heavily or as a sex-drug and nonusers. CONCLUSIONS YBMSM who used marijuana heavily were more likely to be HIV-positive unaware than those who never used marijuana. Findings were inconclusive regarding the relationships between marijuana use and other HIV care continuum metrics. However, knowledge of ones' HIV status is a critical requirement for engaging in care and may have implications for onwards HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Morgan
- a Department of Public Health Sciences , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Aditya S Khanna
- b Department of Medicine , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- a Department of Public Health Sciences , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Stuart Michaels
- c NORC at the University of Chicago, University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Lindsay Young
- b Department of Medicine , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Rebeccah Duvoisin
- c NORC at the University of Chicago, University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Ming Chang
- d Department of Laboratory Medicine , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington , USA
| | - Dexter Voisin
- e School of Social Service Administration , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Benjamin Cornwell
- f Department of Sociology , Cornell University , Ithaca , New York , USA
| | - Robert W Coombs
- d Department of Laboratory Medicine , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington , USA
| | - Samuel R Friedman
- g National Development and Research Institutes , New York , New York , USA
| | - John A Schneider
- a Department of Public Health Sciences , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
- b Department of Medicine , University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
- c NORC at the University of Chicago, University of Chicago , Chicago , Illinois , USA
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Tucker C, Arandi CG, Bolaños JH, Paz-Bailey G, Barrington C. Understanding social and sexual networks of sexual minority men and transgender women in Guatemala city to improve HIV prevention efforts. J Health Care Poor Underserved 2016; 25:1698-717. [PMID: 25418236 DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2014.0163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual minority men and transgender women are disproportionately affected by HIV in Guatemala. Innovative prevention strategies are urgently needed to address these disparities. While social network approaches are frequently used to reach sexual minorities, little is known about the unique network characteristics among sub-groups. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 13 gay-identifying men, eight non-gay-identifying men who have sex with men (MSM) and eight transgender women in Guatemala City. Using narrative and thematic coding procedures, we identified distinct patterns in the size, composition, and overlap between social and sexual networks across groups. Gay-identifying men had the largest, most supportive social networks, predominantly comprising family. For both non-gay-identifying MSM and transgender women, friends and sex clients provided more support. Transgender women reported the smallest social networks, least social support, and the most discrimination. HIV prevention efforts should be tailored to the specific sexual minority population and engage with strong ties.
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Saleh LD, van den Berg JJ, Chambers CS, Operario D. Social support, psychological vulnerability, and HIV risk among African American men who have sex with men. Psychol Health 2016; 31:549-64. [PMID: 26588945 PMCID: PMC4905802 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2015.1120301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has suggested a need to understand the social-psychological factors contributing to HIV risk among African American men who have sex with men (MSM). We conducted individual in-depth interviews with 34 adult African American MSM to examine their personal experiences about: (i) sources of social support, (ii) psychological responses to the presence or absence of social support and (iii) influences of social support on sexual behaviours. The majority of participants described limited positive encouragement and lack of emotional support from family, as well as few meaningful personal relationships. Feelings of isolation and mistrust about personal relationships led many participants to avoid emotional intimacy and seek physical intimacy through sexual encounters. Findings highlight a need for multilevel interventions that enhance social support networks and address the social-psychological, emotional and interpersonal factors that contribute to HIV risk among African American MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena D Saleh
- a Center for HIV Educational Studies and Training (CHEST) , Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY) , New York , NY , USA
| | - Jacob J van den Berg
- b Department of Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, and Division of Infectious Diseases , The Miriam Hospital , Providence , RI , USA
| | - Christopher S Chambers
- c Department of Sociology and Anthropology , Northeastern University , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Don Operario
- d School of Public Health , Brown University , Providence , RI , USA
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Abstract
Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) are highest risk for HIV seroconversion in the United States. Little attention has been paid to marijuana use among BMSM and potential for HIV risk. A sample of 202 BMSM was generated through respondent driven sampling. The relationship between differential marijuana use and both HIV risk behavior and social network factors were examined using weighted logistic regression. Of the BMSM in this sample 60.4 % use marijuana in general and 20.8 % use marijuana as sex-drug. General marijuana use was significantly associated with participation in group sex (AOR 3.50; 95 % CI 1.10-11.10) while marijuana use as a sex drug was significantly associated with both participation in condomless sex (AOR 2.86; 95% CI 1.07-7.67) and group sex (AOR 3.39; 95% CI 1.03-11.22). Respondents with a moderate or high perception of network members who use marijuana were more likely to use marijuana both in general and as a sex-drug. Network member marijuana use, while not associated with risk behaviors, is associated with individual marijuana use and individual marijuana use in the context of sex is associated with risk practices. Targeting interventions towards individuals and their respective networks that use marijuana as a sex drug may reduce HIV risk.
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Tieu HV, Nandi V, Hoover DR, Lucy D, Stewart K, Frye V, Cerda M, Ompad D, Latkin C, Koblin BA. Do Sexual Networks of Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City Differ by Race/Ethnicity? AIDS Patient Care STDS 2016; 30:39-47. [PMID: 26745143 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2015.0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The United States HIV epidemic disproportionately affects Black and Hispanic men who have sex with men (MSM). This disparity might be partially explained by differences in social and sexual network structure and composition. A total of 1267 MSM in New York City completed an ACASI survey and egocentric social and sexual network inventory about their sex partners in the past 3 months, and underwent HIV testing. Social and sexual network structure and composition were compared by race/ethnicity of the egos: black, non-Hispanic (N = 365 egos), white, non-Hispanic (N = 466), and Hispanic (N = 436). 21.1% were HIV-positive by HIV testing; 17.2% reported serodiscordant and serostatus unknown unprotected anal/vaginal intercourse (SDUI) in the last 3 months. Black MSM were more likely than white and Hispanic MSM to report exclusively having partners of same race/ethnicity. Black and Hispanic MSM had more HIV-positive and unknown status partners than white MSM. White men were more likely to report overlap of social and sex partners than black and Hispanic men. No significant differences by race/ethnicity were found for network size, density, having concurrent partners, or having partners with ≥10 years age difference. Specific network composition characteristics may explain racial/ethnic disparities in HIV infection rates among MSM, including HIV status of sex partners in networks and lack of social support within sexual networks. Network structural characteristics such as size and density do not appear to have such an impact. These data add to our understanding of the complexity of social factors affecting black MSM and Hispanic MSM in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Vijay Nandi
- Laboratory of Analytical Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Donald R. Hoover
- Department of Biostatistics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Debbie Lucy
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Kiwan Stewart
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Victoria Frye
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Social Sciences, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
| | - Magdalena Cerda
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Danielle Ompad
- New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, New York City, New York
| | - Carl Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Beryl A. Koblin
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York
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Tsang MA, Schneider JA, Sypsa V, Schumm P, Nikolopoulos GK, Paraskevis D, Friedman SR, Malliori M, Hatzakis A. Network Characteristics of People Who Inject Drugs Within a New HIV Epidemic Following Austerity in Athens, Greece. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2015; 69:499-508. [PMID: 26115439 PMCID: PMC4484886 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000000665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greece experienced an unprecedented increase in HIV cases among drug injectors in 2011 after economic crisis. Network-level factors are increasingly understood to drive HIV transmission in emerging epidemics. METHODS We examined the relationship between networks, risk behaviors, and HIV serostatus among 1404 people who inject drugs in Athens, Greece. We generated networks using the chain-referral structure within a large HIV screening program. Network proportions, the proportion of a respondent's network with a given characteristic, were calculated. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between network proportions and individual HIV seroprevalence, injection frequency and unprotected sex. RESULTS Of note, 1030 networks were generated. Respondent HIV seroprevalence was associated with greater proportions of network members who were HIV infected (ie, those with ≥ 50% of network members HIV positive vs. those with no network members HIV positive) (AOR: 3.11; 95% CI: 2.10 to 4.62), divided drugs (AOR: 1.60; 95% CI: 1.10 to 2.35), or injected frequently (AOR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.21). Homelessness was the only sociodemographic characteristic associated with a risk outcome measure--high-frequency injecting (AOR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.93). These associations were weaker for more distal second- and third-degree networks and not present when examined within random networks. CONCLUSIONS Networks are an independently important contributor to the HIV outbreak in Athens, Greece. Network associations were strongest for the immediate network, with residual associations for distal networks. Homelessness was associated with high-frequency injecting. Prevention programs should consider including network-level interventions to prevent future emerging epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John A. Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Health Studies, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vana Sypsa
- National Retrovirus Reference Center, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Phil Schumm
- Department of Health Studies, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Georgios K. Nikolopoulos
- Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Athens, Greece
- National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI), New York City, NY, USA
| | - Dimitrios Paraskevis
- National Retrovirus Reference Center, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Samuel R. Friedman
- National Development and Research Institutes (NDRI), New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Angelos Hatzakis
- National Retrovirus Reference Center, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Satyanarayan S, Kapur A, Azhar S, Yeldandi V, Schneider JA. Women Connected to at Risk Indian Men Who Have Sex with Men: An Unexplored Network. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1031-6. [PMID: 25403143 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0946-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the women connected to Indian MSM and their impact on HIV risk. We surveyed 240 Indian MSM, who identified their social networks (n = 7,092). Women (n = 1,321) comprised 16.7 % of the network, with 94.7 % representing non-sexual connections. MSM were classified as having low, moderate, or high female network proportion. MSM with moderate female network proportion (8-24 % total network) had significantly lowered odds of HIV seropositivity (AOR = 0.24, 95 % CI = 0.1-0.6). This suggests moderate proportions of female connections could mediate HIV risk. HIV prevention interventions in India could consider the greater involvement of women among their target audiences. Se sabe poco sobre las mujeres conectadas a HSH en India y su impacto en el riesgo de VIH. Se encuestó a 240 HSH indios, quienes identificaron sus redes sociales (n = 7,092). Las mujeres (n = 1,321) formaron al 16.7 % de la red, del cual el 94.7 % representa conexiones no sexuales. Los HSH se clasificaron como baja, moderada o alta proporción de red femenina. HSH con proporción moderada de red femenina (8-24 % del red total) tuvieron un riesgo significativamente reducido de seropositividad de VIH (AOR = 0,24; IC 95 % = 0,1-0,6). Esto sugiere que tener una proporción moderada de contactos femeninos podría atenuar el riesgo de VIH. Las intervenciones de prevención del VIH en India podrían considerar una mayor participación de las mujeres en su público objetivo.
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