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Ostermann J, Njau B, van Zwetselaar M, Yamanis T, McClimans L, Mwangi R, Beti M, Hobbie A, Gass SJ, Mtuy T, Thielman N. Mobile Phone-Based Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e55068. [PMID: 38814692 PMCID: PMC11176874 DOI: 10.2196/55068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical to efforts to end the HIV epidemic is the identification of persons living with HIV who have yet to be diagnosed and engaged in care. Expanded HIV testing outreach efforts need to be both efficient and ambitious, targeting the social networks of persons living with HIV and those at above-average risk of undiagnosed HIV infection. The ubiquity of mobile phones across many high HIV prevalence settings has created opportunities to leverage mobile health (mHealth) technologies to engage social networks for HIV testing outreach, prevention, and treatment. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate the acceptability and efficacy of a novel mHealth intervention, "Confidential Social Network Referrals for HIV Testing (CONSORT)," to nudge at-risk individuals to test for HIV using SMS text messages. METHODS We will conduct the CONSORT study in Moshi, Tanzania, the commercial center and administrative capital of the Kilimanjaro Region in northern Tanzania. After qualitative formative work and pilot testing, we will enroll 400 clients presenting for HIV counseling and testing and 200 persons living with HIV and receiving care at HIV care and treatment centers as "inviters" into a randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants will be aged 18 years or older and live, work, or regularly receive care in Moshi. We will randomize inviters into 1 of 2 study arms. All inviters will be asked to complete a survey of their HIV testing and risk behaviors and to think of social network contacts who would benefit from HIV testing. They will then be asked to whom they would prefer to extend an HIV testing invitation in the form of a physical invitation card. Arm 1 participants will also be given the opportunity to extend CONSORT invitations in the form of automated confidential SMS text messages to any of their social network contacts or "invitees." Arm 2 participants will be offered physical invitation cards alone. The primary outcome will be counselor-documented uptake of HIV testing by invitees within 30 days of inviter enrollment. Secondary outcomes will include the acceptability of CONSORT among inviters, the number of new HIV diagnoses, and the HIV risk of invitees who present for testing. RESULTS Enrollment in the randomized controlled trial is expected to start in September 2024. The findings will be disseminated to stakeholders and published in peer-reviewed journals. CONCLUSIONS If CONSORT is acceptable and effective for increasing the uptake of HIV testing, given the minimal costs of SMS text reminders and the potential for exponential but targeted growth using chain referrals, it may shift current practices for HIV testing programs in the area. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClincalTrials.gov NCT05967208; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05967208. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/55068.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ostermann
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Bernard Njau
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Thespina Yamanis
- School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Leah McClimans
- Department of Philosophy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Rose Mwangi
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Melkiory Beti
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Amy Hobbie
- Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, Duke University, Durham, SC, United States
| | - Salomé-Joelle Gass
- Department of Health Services Policy & Management, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States
| | - Tara Mtuy
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan Thielman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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Lin C, Nguyen DB, Nguyen L, Nguyen TT, Li L, Minh Giang L. Navigating cultural and gender aspects of stigma among women living with HIV in Vietnam. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38478464 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2318428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Women living with HIV often face intersecting challenges of stigma and gender inequality. In Vietnam, this issue is potentially exacerbated by the patriarchal culture. From December 2021 to March 2022, we conducted in-depth interviews with 30 women living with HIV in Hanoi to better understand their experiences and the coping mechanisms to navigate HIV stigma, cultural beliefs and gender norms. The interviews explored various topics including women's social and family roles in Vietnam, HIV-related beliefs, stigma and its impact on one's health and coping strategies. Participants reported stereotypes that assumed that women living with HIV had either engaged in sex work or behaved promiscuously. These stereotypes render them vulnerable to judgement and discrimination owing to widespread expectations of female virtue. As a result, women living with HIV often enacted non-disclosure and self-isolation to avoid stigma. This self-stigmatisation negatively impacted their healthcare-seeking, employment opportunities and ability to fulfil traditional family-caring roles. Conversely, many participants exhibited resilience with the support of family and peers. Overall, the complex interplay between gender, culture and HIV stigma underscores the importance of developing culturally appropriate, multifaceted approaches to engaging family and peers, modifying gender-based discriminatory social practices and enhancing women's self-efficacy and empowerment in Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunqing Lin
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior University of California, Center for Community Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Diep Bich Nguyen
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Lynn Nguyen
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Trang Thu Nguyen
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Li Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior University of California, Center for Community Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Le Minh Giang
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Hartmann M, Nyblade L, Otticha S, Marton T, Agot K, Roberts ST. The development of a conceptual framework on PrEP stigma among adolescent girls and young women in sub-Saharan Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26213. [PMID: 38379129 PMCID: PMC10879468 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stigma is a well-known barrier to HIV testing and treatment and is an emerging barrier to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use. To guide future research, measurement and interventions, we developed a conceptual framework for PrEP stigma among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in sub-Saharan Africa, a priority population for PrEP. METHODS A literature review, expert consultations and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to adapt the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework, describing the stigmatization process nested within the socio-ecological framework. We reviewed all articles on PrEP stigma and on HIV, contraceptive or sexuality stigma among AGYW from 2009 to 2019. Expert consultations were conducted with 10 stigma or PrEP researchers and two Kenyan youth advisory boards to revise the framework. Finally, FGDs were conducted with AGYW PrEP users (4 FGDs; n = 20) and key influencers (14 FGDs; n = 72) in Kenya with the help of a Youth Research Team who aided in FGD conduct and results interpretation. Results from each phase were reviewed and the framework was updated to incorporate new and divergent findings. This was validated against an updated literature search from 2020 to 2023. RESULTS The conceptual framework identifies potential drivers, facilitators and manifestations of PrEP stigma, its outcomes and health impacts, and relevant intersecting stigmas. The main findings include: (1) PrEP stigma is driven by HIV, gender and sexuality stigmas, and low PrEP community awareness. (2) Stigma is facilitated by factors at multiple levels: policy (e.g. targeting of PrEP to high-risk populations), health systems (e.g. youth-friendly service availability), community (e.g. social capital) and individual (e.g. empowerment). (3) Similar to other stigmas, manifestations include labelling, violence and shame. (4) PrEP stigma results in decreased access to and acceptability of PrEP, limited social support and community resistance, which can impact mental health and decrease PrEP uptake and adherence. (5) Stigma may engender resilience by motivating AGYW to think of PrEP as an exercise in personal agency. CONCLUSIONS Our PrEP stigma conceptual framework highlights potential intervention targets at multiple levels in the stigmatization process. Its adoption would enable researchers to develop standardized measures and compare stigma across timepoints and populations as well as design and evaluate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Hartmann
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Global Public HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Laura Nyblade
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Tozoe Marton
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kawango Agot
- Impact Research Development OrganizationKisumuKenya
| | - Sarah T. Roberts
- Women's Global Health ImperativeRTI InternationalBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
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Wanjala SW, Nyongesa MK, Mapenzi R, Luchters S, Abubakar A. A qualitative inquiry of experiences of HIV-related stigma and its effects among people living with HIV on treatment in rural Kilifi, Kenya. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1188446. [PMID: 37427260 PMCID: PMC10324964 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1188446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The pervasiveness of HIV-related stigma and discrimination, and its consequences on HIV prevention and treatment, have been well documented. However, little is known about the lived experiences of HIV-related stigma and its effects among the general adult population living with HIV in rural African settings. This study set out to explore this knowledge gap. Methods From April to June 2018, we conducted in-depth interviews with a convenience sample of 40 adults living with HIV aged 18-58 years in Kilifi, Kenya. A semi-structured interview guide was used to explore experiences of HIV-related stigma and its impact on these adults. A framework approach was used to analyze the data using NVIVO 11 software. Results Participants reported experiences of HIV-related stigma in its various forms (anticipated, perceived, internalised, and enacted), as well as its effects on HIV treatment and social and personal spheres. The internalisation of stigma caused by enacted stigma impacted care-seeking behavior resulting in worse overall health. Anxiety and depression characterized by suicidal ideation were the results of internalised stigma. Anticipated stigma prompted HIV medication concealment, care-seeking in remote healthcare facilities, and care avoidance. Fewer social interactions and marital conflicts resulted from perceived stigma. Overall, HIV-related stigma resulted in partial and non-disclosure of HIV seropositivity and medication non-adherence. At a personal level, mental health issues and diminished sexual or marital prospects (for the unmarried) were reported. Conclusion Despite high awareness of HIV and AIDS among the general population in Kenya, adults living with HIV in rural Kilifi still experience different forms of HIV-related stigma (including self-stigma) that result in a raft of social, personal, and HIV-treatment-related consequences. Our findings underscore the urgent need to reevaluate and adopt more effective strategies for implementing HIV-related anti-stigma programs at the community level. Addressing individual-level stigma will require the design of targeted interventions. To improve the lives of adults living with HIV in Kilifi, the effects of HIV-related stigma, particularly on HIV treatment, must be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley W. Wanjala
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Social Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Moses K. Nyongesa
- Neuroassessment Group, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rachael Mapenzi
- Neuroassessment Group, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Neuroassessment Group, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi, Kenya
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health, School of Human and Health Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Nursalam N, Sukartini T, Kuswanto H, Setyowati S, Mediarti D, Rosnani R, Pradipta RO, Ubudiyah M, Mafula D, Klankhajhon S, Arifin H. Investigation of discriminatory attitude toward people living with HIV in the family context using socio-economic factors and information sources: A nationwide study in Indonesia. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13841. [PMID: 35942127 PMCID: PMC9356582 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The well-being of people living with HIV (PLHIV) remains a concern. In addition to facing discrimination in their communities, many PLHIV have family members who have a discriminatory attitude. This study analyzes the discriminatory attitude toward PLHIV in the family context using socio-economic factors and information sources in Indonesia. Methods A cross-sectional study design was adopted using secondary data from the 2017 Indonesian Demographic Health Survey (IDHS). A total sample of 28,879 respondents was selected using two-stage stratified cluster sampling. The study variables are information sources, sex, age, education, residence, earnings, and familial discriminatory attitude. We used the STATA 16.1 software to analyze Chi-square and binary logistics with a 95% confident interval (CI) with a significance of 5% (p-value < 0.05). Results In Indonesia, familial discriminatory attitude has a prevalence of 72.10%. In the survey, the respondents with access to some information about HIV (AOR: 0.794; 95% CI [0.722-0.873]), women (AOR: 0.768; 95% CI [0.718-0.820]), and those living in rural areas (AOR: 0.880; 95% CI [0.834-0.929]) were the least likely to have a familial discriminatory attitude. Meanwhile, the respondents aged 15-24 years (AOR: 1.329; 95% CI [1.118-1.581]) and those with a secondary level of education (AOR: 1.070; 95% CI [1.004-1.142]) were the most likely to have a familial discriminatory attitude. Conclusion In the study, we found that, the younger the age and the lower the educational level of the respondent, the more likely they were to have a familial discriminatory attitude. The government may consider these factors when designing policies to tackle familial discrimination faced by PLHIV; in particular, education on HIV and AIDS should be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nursalam Nursalam
- Department of Advanced Nursing Care, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Tintin Sukartini
- Department of Advanced Nursing Care, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Heri Kuswanto
- Department of Statistics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Setyowati Setyowati
- Department of Maternity Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Devi Mediarti
- Nursing Major, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Palembang, Palembang, South Sumatera, Indonesia
| | - Rosnani Rosnani
- Nursing Major, Politeknik Kesehatan Kemenkes Palembang, Palembang, South Sumatera, Indonesia
| | - Rifky Octavia Pradipta
- Department of Fundamental Nursing Care, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Masunatul Ubudiyah
- Nursing, Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Dluha Mafula
- Department of Basic and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Central Java, Indonesia
| | | | - Hidayat Arifin
- Department of Medical and Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
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Skerritt L, Kaida A, Savoie É, Sánchez M, Sarmiento I, O’Brien N, Burchell AN, Bartlett G, Boucoiran I, Kestler M, Rouleau D, Loutfy M, de Pokomandy A. Factors and Priorities Influencing Satisfaction with Care among Women Living with HIV in Canada: A Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping Study. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12071079. [PMID: 35887575 PMCID: PMC9320512 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12071079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Engagement along the HIV care cascade in Canada is lower among women compared to men. We used Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM), a participatory research method, to identify factors influencing satisfaction with HIV care, their causal pathways, and relative importance from the perspective of women living with HIV. Building from a map of factors derived from a mixed-studies review of the literature, 23 women living with HIV in Canada elaborated ten categories influencing their satisfaction with HIV care. The most central and influential category was “feeling safe and supported by clinics and healthcare providers”, followed by “accessible and coordinated services” and “healthcare provider expertise”. Participants identified factors that captured gendered social and health considerations not previously specified in the literature. These categories included “healthcare that considers women’s unique care needs and social contexts”, “gynecologic and pregnancy care”, and “family and partners included in care.” The findings contribute to our understanding of how gender shapes care needs and priorities among women living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lashanda Skerritt
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada; (A.K.); (M.S.)
| | - Édénia Savoie
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
| | - Margarite Sánchez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada; (A.K.); (M.S.)
- Viva Women, Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C9, Canada
| | - Iván Sarmiento
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Nadia O’Brien
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (N.O.); (D.R.)
| | - Ann N. Burchell
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada;
| | - Gillian Bartlett
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Isabelle Boucoiran
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada;
| | | | - Danielle Rouleau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada; (N.O.); (D.R.)
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women’s College Research Institute, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2, Canada;
| | - Alexandra de Pokomandy
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3S 1Z1, Canada; (L.S.); (I.S.); (G.B.)
- Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-514-843-2090
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Onyango MA, Chergui H, Sabin LL, Messersmith LJ, Sarkisova N, Oyombra J, Akello P, Kwaro DO, Otieno J. School-level Barriers of Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence and Interventions to Overcome them Among Adolescents Living with HIV in Western Kenya: A Qualitative Study. Open AIDS J 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1874613602115010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Adolescents in Kenya spend the majority of their time in a school environment. However, research to understand Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) adherence among adolescents living with HIV (ALWHIV) in school settings is sparse.
Objective:
To improve the design of appropriate interventions to better support this vulnerable population, the study aimed to explore school-related barriers to ART adherence experienced by ALWHIV.
Methods:
Qualitative data were utilized from a larger mixed-methods study on ALWHIV conducted at a major teaching and referral hospital in Kisumu, Kenya. Participants encompassed ALWHIV, their caregivers, teachers, and health care providers. Transcripts from a total of 24 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions were analyzed in NVivo using a thematic approach.
Results:
Four themes emerged as key barriers in a school setting: negative experiences following HIV status self-disclosure, a strong desire for secrecy, restrictive school policies, and health education focused on sexual transmission of HIV. Participants suggested a range of potential interventions to better support ART adherence for ALWHIV, including coaching ALWHIV on disclosure strategies, promoting empathy among teachers and students, transition-preparing for ALWHIV, changing the narrative about HIV transmission in schools, providing water in schools, and introducing adherence support programs in schools, including the use of mobile technology.
Conclusion:
ALWHIV in Kenya experience numerous important challenges while trying to maintain optimal ART adherence in the school environment. Interventions that create supportive school settings are critical for better health outcomes among ALWHIV.
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Zhang LJ, Shannon K, Tibashoboka D, Ogilvie G, Pick N, Kestler M, Logie C, Udall B, Braschel M, Deering KN. Prevalence and correlates of having sexual and reproductive health priorities met by HIV providers among women living with HIV in a Canadian setting. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2021; 30:100666. [PMID: 34563858 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2021.100666] [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: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To: (1) describe the prevalence of key reproductive health outcomes (e.g., pregnancy, unintended pregnancy; abortion); and (2) examine social-structural correlates, including HIV stigma, of having key sexual and reproductive health (SRH) priorities met by participants' primary HIV provider, among women living with HIV. METHODS Data were drawn from a longitudinal community-based open cohort (SHAWNA) of women living with HIV. The associations between social-structural factors and two outcomes representing having SRH priorities met by HIV providers ('being comfortable discussing sexual health [SH] and/or getting a Papanicolaou test' and 'being comfortable discussing reproductive health [RH] and/or pregnancy needs') were analyzed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations for repeated measures over time. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals [95% CIs] are reported. RESULTS Of 314 participants, 77.1% reported having SH priorities met while 64.7% reported having RH priorities met by their primary HIV provider at baseline. In multivariable analysis, having SH priorities met was inversely associated with: sexual minority identity (AOR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37-0.94), gender minority identity (AOR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.29-0.95) and recent verbal or physical violence related to HIV status (AOR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.31-0.97) and positively associated with recently accessing women-centred services (Oak Tree Clinic) (AOR: 4.25, 95% CI: 2.20-8.23). Having RH priorities met was inversely associated with: sexual minority identity (AOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.40-0.79), gender minority identity (AOR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.25-0.81) and being born in Canada (AOR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.15-0.56) and positively associated with recently accessing women-centred services (AOR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.29-2.53) and a history of pregnancy (AOR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.47-3.44). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that there remain unmet priorities for safe SRH care and practice among women living with HIV, and in particular, for women living with HIV with sexual and/or gender minority identity and those who experience enacted HIV stigma. HIV providers should create safe, non-judgmental environments to facilitate discussions on SRH. These environments should be affirming of all sexual orientations and gender identities, culturally safe, culturally humble and use trauma-informed approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Zhang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K Shannon
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street/ 647 Powell Street, Vancouver, Canada
| | - D Tibashoboka
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street/ 647 Powell Street, Vancouver, Canada
| | - G Ogilvie
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada; BC Centre for Disease Control, 655 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada; BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, 4500 Oak St, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - N Pick
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - M Kestler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - C Logie
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - B Udall
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street/ 647 Powell Street, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M Braschel
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street/ 647 Powell Street, Vancouver, Canada
| | - K N Deering
- Division of Social Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, 1190 Hornby Street/ 647 Powell Street, Vancouver, Canada.
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Ismail R, Voss JG, Yona S, Nurachmah E, Boutain D, Lowe C, John-Stewart G, Woods NF. Classifying stigma experience of women living with HIV in Indonesia through the social ecological model. Health Care Women Int 2021; 43:345-366. [PMID: 34379051 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2021.1929989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Little is known how stigma theories apply to women living with HIV (WLWH). To apply stigma theories to WLWH, and locate within the dimensions of the Social-Ecological Model (SEM). Using a literature review and a theoretical subtraction to apply stigma forms to the SEM dimensions. WLWH begin to self-stigmatize, receive stigma based on fear from the family and community. Healthcare providers and society stigmatize WLWH by ascribing character flaws to them. The SEM allowed us to locate the dimensions of stigma and identify areas for future interventions for WLWH in Indonesia and other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Ismail
- Ministry of Health Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Joachim G Voss
- Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Sri Yona
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Elly Nurachmah
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Doris Boutain
- Psychosocial and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Celia Lowe
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Grace John-Stewart
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nancy Fugate Woods
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Lythgoe C, Lowe K, McCauley M, McCauley H. How women's experiences and perceptions of care influence uptake of postnatal care across sub-Saharan Africa: a qualitative systematic review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:506. [PMID: 34256727 PMCID: PMC8276494 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-03910-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality is a global health concern with the highest burden documented after childbirth in women and babies living in sub-Saharan Africa. To date, there is limited information on the quality of postnatal care and/or whether evidence-based interventions to improve postnatal care in a way that meets the specific health needs of each mother and her baby have been lacking. There is also limited data related to how quality of care (respectful or disrespectful) influences women's decision to access postnatal care. OBJECTIVE To systematically review available qualitative evidence for how quality of care (respectful or disrespectful) influences perceptions and experiences of, and decisions to, access postnatal care for women living in sub-Saharan Africa. SEARCH STRATEGY CINAHL plus, Cochrane library, Global Health, Medline, PubMed, Web of Science were searched from 2009-2019. Grey literature was searched on Google Scholar. SELECTION CRITERIA Qualitative literature in English describing women's perceptions and experiences of the quality of care they received after childbirth and how this influenced their perceptions of and decisions to access postnatal care. DATA ANALYSIS Thematic analysis was performed to extract subthemes and themes. Outcomes were themes from the qualitative data used to form a thematic synthesis. RESULTS Fifteen studies were included with data from 985 women interviewed face-to-face across eight countries. Descriptions of respectful care included healthcare providers being kind, supportive and attentive to women's needs. Women described preferring healthcare services where the healthcare providers communicated in a respectful and caring manner. Descriptions of disrespectful care included verbal and/or physical abuse and power imbalances between women and healthcare providers. Some women were denied postnatal care when attending a healthcare facility after giving birth at home. There is evidence to suggest that vulnerable women (adolescents; women with poor socioeconomic status; women who are HIV positive) are more likely to receive disrespectful care. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review describes how aspects of respectful and disrespectful maternity care influence women's perceptions and experiences of, and decisions to access postnatal care services. There is a need for a renewed focus to prioritise respectful maternity care and to sustainably provide good quality postnatal care to all women and their babies in a way that meets their expectations and health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Lythgoe
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Kirsty Lowe
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Mary McCauley
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
- Liverpool Women's Hospital, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Hannah McCauley
- Centre for Maternal and Newborn Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
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Akatukwasa C, Getahun M, El Ayadi AM, Namanya J, Maeri I, Itiakorit H, Owino L, Sanyu N, Kabami J, Ssemmondo E, Sang N, Kwarisiima D, Petersen ML, Charlebois ED, Chamie G, Clark TD, Cohen CR, Kamya MR, Bukusi EA, Havlir DV, Camlin CS. Dimensions of HIV-related stigma in rural communities in Kenya and Uganda at the start of a large HIV 'test and treat' trial. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249462. [PMID: 33999961 PMCID: PMC8128261 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-related stigma is a frequently cited barrier to HIV testing and care engagement. A nuanced understanding of HIV-related stigma is critical for developing stigma-reduction interventions to optimize HIV-related outcomes. This qualitative study documented HIV-related stigma across eight communities in east Africa during the baseline year of a large HIV test-and-treat trial (SEARCH, NCT: 01864603), prior to implementation of widespread community HIV testing campaigns and efforts to link individuals with HIV to care and treatment. Findings revealed experiences of enacted, internalized and anticipated stigma that were highly gendered, and more pronounced in communities with lower HIV prevalence; women, overwhelmingly, both held and were targets of stigmatizing attitudes about HIV. Past experiences with enacted stigma included acts of segregation, verbal discrimination, physical violence, humiliation and rejection. Narratives among women, in particular, revealed acute internalized stigma including feelings of worthlessness, shame, embarrassment, and these resulted in anxiety and depression, including suicidality among a small number of women. Anticipated stigma included fears of marital dissolution, verbal and physical abuse, gossip and public ridicule. Anticipated stigma was especially salient for women who held internalized stigma and who had experienced enacted stigma from their partners. Anticipated stigma led to care avoidance, care-seeking at remote facilities, and hiding of HIV medications. Interventions aimed at reducing individual and community-level forms of stigma may be needed to improve the lives of PLHIV and fully realize the promise of test-and-treat strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica Getahun
- Department of Obstetrics, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Alison M. El Ayadi
- Department of Obstetrics, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Judith Namanya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Irene Maeri
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Lawrence Owino
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Naomi Sanyu
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jane Kabami
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Norton Sang
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Maya L. Petersen
- Divisions of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States of America
| | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Gabriel Chamie
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Tamara D. Clark
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIV, Infectious Disease and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of Obstetrics, Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
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Chace Dwyer S, Jain A, Liambila W, Warren CE. The role of unintended pregnancy in internalized stigma among women living with HIV in Kenya. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2021; 21:106. [PMID: 33731107 PMCID: PMC7968281 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01224-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kenya has successfully expanded HIV treatment, but HIV-related stigma and discrimination, and unintended pregnancy remain issues for many Kenyan women living with HIV. While HIV-related stigma can influence the health seeking behaviors of those living with HIV, less is known about how reproductive health outcomes influence internalized stigma among women living with HIV. METHODS Baseline data only were used in this analysis and came from an implementation science study conducted in Kenya from 2015 to 2017. The analytic sample was limited to 1116 women who are living with HIV, between 18 to 44 years old, and have ever experienced a pregnancy. The outcome variable was constructed from 7 internalized stigma statements and agreement with at least 3 statements was categorized as medium/high levels of internalized stigma. Unintended pregnancy, categorized as unintended if the last pregnancy was mistimed or unwanted, was the key independent variable. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the association between unintended pregnancy and internalized stigma. Associations between internalized stigma and HIV-related discrimination and violence/abuse were also explored. RESULTS About 48% agreed with at least one internalized stigma statement and 19% agreed with at least three. Over half of women reported that their last pregnancy was unintended (59%). Within the year preceding the survey, 52% reported experiencing discrimination and 41% reported experiencing violence or abuse due to their HIV status. Women whose last pregnancy was unintended were 1.6 times (95% CI 1.2-2.3) more likely to have medium/high levels of internalized stigma compared to those whose pregnancy was wanted at the time, adjusting for respondents' characteristics, experiences of discrimination, and experiences of violence and abuse. Women who experienced HIV-related discrimination in the past 12 months were 1.8 times (95% CI 1.3-2.6) more likely to have medium/high levels of internalized stigma compared to those who experienced no discrimination. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that unintended pregnancy is associated with internalized stigma. Integrated HIV and FP programs in Kenya should continue to address stigma and discrimination while increasing access to comprehensive voluntary family planning services for women living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Chace Dwyer
- Population Council, 4301 Connecticut Ave NW # 280, Washington, DC, 20008, USA.
| | - Aparna Jain
- Population Council, 4301 Connecticut Ave NW # 280, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | | | - Charlotte E Warren
- Population Council, 4301 Connecticut Ave NW # 280, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
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Chubb LA, Fouché CB. Domestic stigmatisation: refocusing interventions for people living with HIV. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2021; 19:276-286. [PMID: 33337981 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2020.1834416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Domestic stigmatisation serves as an umbrella term for acts of enacted or felt stigma experienced in a person's domestic environment. This article reports on the term which transpired from a narrative inquiry in 2011 with people living with HIV (PLWH) who reported humiliation or segregation, experienced or perceived, within the domestic environment that rendered the individual disabled, diseased, unworthy, unhealthy, or deficient. A literature review about this form of stigma was conducted using the following inclusion criteria: 1) a peer-reviewed source; 2) published between 2011 and 2018; 3) access to full-text articles; 4) accessible in English; 5) reported from any country; and 6) using qualitative or mixed-method approaches. A total of 37 studies were included in the review - documenting 51 specific experiences of domestic stigmatisation (referred to as acts for the purpose of the review) across all studies. A matrix was developed detailing each study's' publication date, geographical context, participant gender (where possible) and the reported acts. A critical analysis is offered on the concept "domestic stigmatisation" and its relevance to domestic or family interventions. Deliberate attention to this concept can potentially refocus HIV stigma-reducing interventions to benefit families and promote coping strategies to reduce stigma-related stress associated with seropositive identities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ann Chubb
- Department of Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Christa B Fouché
- Department of Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Carter A, Anam F, Sanchez M, Roche J, Wynne ST, Stash J, Webster K, Nicholson V, Patterson S, Kaida A. Radical Pleasure: Feminist Digital Storytelling by, with, and for Women Living with HIV. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:83-103. [PMID: 33231828 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01822-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that HIV can be controlled with medication to undetectable levels where it cannot be passed on, stigmatization of women living with HIV persists. Such stigmatization pivots on stereotypes around sex and sexism and has force in women's lives. Our aim was to create an inspirational resource for women living with HIV regarding sex, relationships, and sexuality: www.lifeandlovewithhiv.ca (launched in July 2018). This paper describes the development and mixed-method evaluation of our first year and a half activities. We situated our work within a participatory arts-based knowledge translation planning framework and used multiple data sources (Google Analytics, stories and comments on the website, team reflections over multiple meetings) to report on interim outcomes and impacts. In our first 1.5 years, we recruited and mentored 12 women living with HIV from around the world (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Kenya, South Africa, Spain, Nigeria, and the U.S.) to write their own stories, with the support of a mentor/editor, as a way of regaining control of HIV narratives and asserting their right to have pleasurable, fulfilling, and safer sexual lives. Writers published 43 stories about pleasure, orgasm, bodies, identities, trauma, resilience, dating, disclosure, self-love, and motherhood. Our social media community grew to 1600, and our website received approximately 300 visits per month, most by women (70%) and people aged 25-44 years (65%), from more than 50 cities globally, with shifts in use and demographics over time. Qualitative data indicated the power of feminist digital storytelling for opportunity, access, validation, and healing, though not without risks. We offer recommendations to others interested in using arts-based digital methods to advance social equity in sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Carter
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Level 6, Wallace, Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
| | - Florence Anam
- Medécins Sans Frontières, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Margarite Sanchez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- ViVA Women, Positive Living Society of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - S T Wynne
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Just Stash
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Kath Webster
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Valerie Nicholson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | | | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Ataro Z, Mengesha MM, Abrham A, Digaffe T. Gender Differences in Perceived Stigma and Coping Strategies Among People Living with HIV/AIDS at Jugal Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2020; 13:1191-1200. [PMID: 33364862 PMCID: PMC7750813 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s283969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV/AIDS is among the most devastating diseases, having multiple effects on the health and well-being of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). There is a paucity of studies that examined the gender differences in perceived stigma among PLWHA and the different coping strategies that they use in Ethiopia. Objective To assess the gender differences in perceived stigma and coping strategies among PLWHA. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Jugal Hospital, Harar, eastern Ethiopia from May 01 to July 30, 2018. A total of 412 (206 females and 206 males) PLWHA were included. Face-to-face interviewer-administered data were collected. Perceived HIV stigma was assessed using the Berger HIV stigma scale. Similarly, the coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief COPE) scale. The data were analyzed using STATA version 13. Results The mean Berger stigma scale score was 65.3±11.3. The overall perceived stigma mean score was not statistically different between males and females (64.8±10.8 vs 65.8±11.7, p=0.407). Among the four subscales, women reported a higher level of disclosure stigma than men (21.1±5.5 vs 20.3±5.5; p=0.006). Regarding maladaptive coping strategies, men often used substances compared to women (2.8±1.5 vs 2.1±0.4; p<0.001). However, women use behavioral disengagement (4.6±1.1 vs 4.2±1.1; p=0.002) and self-distraction (5.9±1.5 vs 5.5±1.7; p=0.019) more often than men. Females used a higher level of adaptive coping strategies compared to males (42.5±4.9 vs 40.9±6.3, p=0.005). Furthermore, females were found to use more emotional-focused coping than males (27.6±3.2 vs 26.4±4.0; p<0.001). Conclusion Women reported a higher level of disclosure stigma than men and the types of coping strategies used vary between male and female. Thus, interventions to support PLWHA must take into account the gender differences in terms of perceived stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerihun Ataro
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Melkamu Merid Mengesha
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Aklilu Abrham
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Digaffe
- Department of Human Resource Development, Federal Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Melis T, Fikadu Y, Lemma L. Perceived Stigma and Associated Factors Among HIV Positive Adult Patients Attending Antiretroviral Therapy Clinics at Public Facilities of Butajira Town, Southern Ethiopia, 2020. HIV AIDS (Auckl) 2020; 12:717-724. [PMID: 33204172 PMCID: PMC7665444 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s280501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma refers to attitudes and beliefs that lead people to reject, avoid, or fear those they perceive as being different. It identifies people as criminals, slaves, or traitors to be shunned. Globally 30-80% of people living with HIV experience stigma during their lifetime. There is a paucity of research in identifying determinants of stigma on HIV positive patients in Ethiopia. The aim of this study is to assess magnitude and factors associated with stigma among HIV positive adults attending antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics at public health facilities of Butajira town. METHODS Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at public health facilities of Butajira town. A total of 403 study participants were selected by systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected by using pre-tested interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data were entered into EpiData3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to identify factors associated with stigma. The strength of association was assessed by crude odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio for bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, respectively. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05 and 95% CI. RESULTS The magnitude of stigma among HIV positive patient was 28.9%. Discussing about safer sex (AOR: 2; 95% CI: (1.14,3.18), disclosing HIV positive status (AOR: 6;95% CI: (2.3,14.9), being a female (AOR: 2.5; 95% CI: (1.41,4.12) and age >34 years (AOR: 4; 95% CI: (1.46,12.9) were the independent factors associated with stigma in HIV positive patients. CONCLUSION The magnitude of stigma in ART patient is still unresolved problem. Discussing about safer sex, disclosing HIV positive status, being a female and age were the independent factors associated with stigma in HIV positive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamirat Melis
- Wachamo University, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, Hosanna, Ethiopia
| | - Yohannes Fikadu
- Wolkite University, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, Wolkite, Ethiopia
| | - Lire Lemma
- Wachamo University, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, Hosanna, Ethiopia
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Mathew RS, Boonsuk P, Dandu M, Sohn AH. Experiences with stigma and discrimination among adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Bangkok, Thailand. AIDS Care 2019; 32:530-535. [PMID: 31625417 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1679707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Thailand has identified stigma and discrimination as barriers to controlling their HIV epidemic. We aimed to explore the perspectives of young adults living with HIV in Bangkok regarding the influence of stigma and discrimination in education, employment, health care, personal relationships, and perceptions of self. Participants aged 15-24 years were conveniently and purposively sampled from local HIV clinics in Bangkok. Twenty-three individuals (14 female, 9 male; median age 20) were enrolled into the study between May and June 2017. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted in Thai. Interview transcripts were translated into English and analyzed with Dedoose software (v7.6.12) using a framework analysis approach. Participants reported varied experiences with and beliefs about HIV-related stigma as they related to family, employment, education, and society. While few experienced discrimination, such as losing opportunities at work or school, all reported anticipating potential stigma and fearing negative repercussions from disclosure. Many participants reported that fear of disclosure negatively impacted their medication adherence. For the individuals interviewed, fear of stigma was a daily consideration. Many experienced HIV-related stigma in school, at work, within their communities, and in their inter-personal relationships. Anti-stigma efforts should include strategies that address the needs of young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhea S Mathew
- San Francisco Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Current affiliation: Drexel University College of Medicine: 2900 W. Queen Lane Philadelphia, PA 19129
| | - Phiangjai Boonsuk
- TREAT Asia/amfAR - The Foundation for AIDS Research, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Madhavi Dandu
- San Francisco Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Annette H Sohn
- TREAT Asia/amfAR - The Foundation for AIDS Research, Bangkok, Thailand
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Adjei CA, Stutterheim SE, Naab F, Ruiter RAC. Chronic Hepatitis B stigma in Ghana: a qualitative study with patients and providers. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e025503. [PMID: 31248915 PMCID: PMC6597648 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored beliefs contributing to Hepatitis B stigma, and the ways in which Hepatitis B stigma manifests, from the perspectives of people with chronic Hepatitis B as well as healthcare providers in Northern and Southern Ghana. DESIGN We used an exploratory qualitative design with a purposive sampling technique. Face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions were conducted. Data were processed using QSR Nvivo V.10.0 and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. SETTINGS Participants were recruited from one tertiary and one regional hospital in Ghana between February and November 2017. PARTICIPANTS Overall, 18 people with chronic Hepatitis B (PWHB) and 47 healthcare providers (primary care physicians, nurses and midwives) between the ages of 21 and 57 years participated in the study. RESULTS PWHB face stigma in their sociocultural context and the healthcare environment. Three main beliefs underlying stigma were found: (1) the belief that Hepatitis B is highly contagious; (2) the belief that Hepatitis B is very severe and (3) the belief that Hepatitis B is caused by curses. Stigmatisation manifested as avoidance and social isolation (discrimination). In healthcare settings, stigmatisation manifested as excessive cautiousness, procedure postponement or avoidance, task-shifting and breaches of confidentiality. CONCLUSIONS Given the prevalence of incorrect knowledge, as reflected in the beliefs about Hepatitis B, we recommend public awareness campaigns that emphasise Hepatitis B transmission routes. Also, given the manifestations of the stigma in healthcare settings, we recommend the development and implementation of a continuing professional development programme on Hepatitis B and adjusted policy on Hepatitis B vaccination for Healthcare providers (HCPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Ampong Adjei
- Community Health Nursing Department, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Sarah E Stutterheim
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Florence Naab
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Robert A C Ruiter
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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Ayieko J, Petersen ML, Charlebois ED, Brown LB, Clark TD, Kwarisiima D, Kamya MR, Cohen CR, Bukusi EA, Havlir DV, Van Rie A. A Patient-Centered Multicomponent Strategy for Accelerated Linkage to Care Following Community-Wide HIV Testing in Rural Uganda and Kenya. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 80:414-422. [PMID: 30807481 PMCID: PMC6410970 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As countries move toward universal HIV treatment, many individuals fail to link to care after diagnosis of HIV. Efficient and effective linkage strategies are needed. METHODS We implemented a patient-centered, multicomponent linkage strategy in the SEARCH "test-and-treat" trial (NCT 01864603) in Kenya and Uganda. After population-based, community-wide HIV testing, eligible participants were (1) introduced to clinic staff after testing, (2) provided a telephone "hot-line" for enquiries, (3) provided an appointment reminder phone call, (4) given transport reimbursement on linkage, and (5) tracked if linkage appointment was missed. We estimated the proportion linked to care within 1 year and evaluated factors associated with linkage at 7, 30, and 365 days after diagnosis. RESULTS Among 71,308 adults tested, 6811 (9.6%) were HIV-infected; of these, 4760 (69.9%) were already in HIV care, and 30.1% were not. Among 2051 not in care, 58% were female, median age was 32 (interquartile range 26-40) years, and median CD4 count was 493 (interquartile range 331-683) cells/µL. Half (49.7%) linked within 1 week, and 73.4% linked within 1 year. Individuals who were younger [15-34 vs. >35 years, adjusted Risk Ratio (aRR) 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.74 to 0.94], tested at home vs. community campaign (aRR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.81 to 0.94), had a high HIV-risk vs. low-risk occupation (aRR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.75 to 0.88), and were wealthier (aRR 0.90, 95% CI: 0.83 to 0.97) were less likely to link. Linkage did not differ by marital status, stable residence, level of education, or having a phone contact. CONCLUSIONS Using a multicomponent linkage strategy, high proportions of people living with HIV but not in care linked rapidly after HIV testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Ayieko
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Maya L. Petersen
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA
| | | | | | - Tamara D. Clark
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Dalsone Kwarisiima
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses R. Kamya
- Department of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bukusi
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Annelies Van Rie
- Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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A scoping review of health-related stigma outcomes for high-burden diseases in low- and middle-income countries. BMC Med 2019; 17:17. [PMID: 30764819 PMCID: PMC6376728 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-019-1250-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma is associated with health conditions that drive disease burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including HIV, tuberculosis, mental health problems, epilepsy, and substance use disorders. However, the literature discussing the relationship between stigma and health outcomes is largely fragmented within disease-specific siloes, thus limiting the identification of common moderators or mechanisms through which stigma potentiates adverse health outcomes as well as the development of broadly relevant stigma mitigation interventions. METHODS We conducted a scoping review to provide a critical overview of the breadth of research on stigma for each of the five aforementioned conditions in LMICs, including their methodological strengths and limitations. RESULTS Across the range of diseases and disorders studied, stigma is associated with poor health outcomes, including help- and treatment-seeking behaviors. Common methodological limitations include a lack of prospective studies, non-representative samples resulting in limited generalizability, and a dearth of data on mediators and moderators of the relationship between stigma and health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Implementing effective stigma mitigation interventions at scale necessitates transdisciplinary longitudinal studies that examine how stigma potentiates the risk for adverse outcomes for high-burden health conditions in community-based samples in LMICs.
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Mobile, Population-wide, Hybrid HIV Testing Strategy Increases Number of Children Tested in Rural Kenya and Uganda. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2018; 37:1279-1281. [PMID: 30199482 PMCID: PMC6226337 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000002142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Efficient ways to identify children with HIV in the context of universal test-and-treat policies are needed. We evaluated a hybrid testing strategy combining mobile community and home-based HIV testing in 87,700 children across 32 rural communities in 2 East African countries. This approach resulted in 81% testing coverage of at-risk children and doubled the number of children diagnosed with HIV.
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Hopkins J, Collins L. How linked are national HIV and SRHR strategies? A review of SRHR and HIV strategies in 60 countries. Health Policy Plan 2018; 32:iv57-iv66. [PMID: 29194540 PMCID: PMC5886072 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czw119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The connection between HIV and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is widely recognised along with the benefits of linking them at the legal/policy, health systems, and service delivery levels. However, despite increased rhetoric about the need for this three-tiered approach, integrated service delivery has not been fully addressed at the legal/policy level through national strategies. Thus a review of HIV and SRHR strategies was conducted for 60 countries, determining the extent to which they reflected the intersections between HIV and SRHR. Each HIV strategy was scored on whether five key SRHR components were incorporated and had an associated measurable target. SRHR strategies were similarly assessed for incorporation of five HIV components and associated targets. HIV strategies had a higher level of inclusion of SRHR components with a global average of 6.6/10 compared to 3.7/10 for SRHR strategies. The highest scoring component was the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (EMTCT) and the lowest was SRHR of people living with HIV. Countries with higher scores in one strategy tended to have higher scores in the other but there was no difference over time. Whilst there has been increased global commitment since 2004 to link SRHR and HIV, insufficient headway has been made in linking related national strategies. Although EMTCT is included with targets in the majority of HIV and SRHR strategies, the broader SRHR needs of women living with HIV are not. Also, condoms are not being considered an effective triple protection tool. HIV and SRHR strategies provide direction and targets which ultimately may influence funding and vice versa. Therefore, it is essential that these strategies are right-based and incorporate the key connections between SRHR and HIV with measurable targets to realise the full benefits of a joint response.
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Zakumumpa H, Rujumba J, Kwiringira J, Kiplagat J, Namulema E, Muganzi A. Understanding the persistence of vertical (stand-alone) HIV clinics in the health system in Uganda: a qualitative synthesis of patient and provider perspectives. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:690. [PMID: 30185191 PMCID: PMC6126041 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3500-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although there is mounting evidence and policy guidance urging the integration of HIV services into general health systems in countries with a high HIV burden, vertical (stand-alone) HIV clinics are still common in Uganda. We sought to describe the specific contexts underpinning the endurance of vertical HIV clinics in Uganda. Methods A qualitative research design was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the heads of HIV clinics, clinicians and facility in-charges (n = 78), coupled with eight focus group discussions (64 participants) with patients from 16 health facilities purposively selected, from a nationally-representative sample of 195 health facilities across Uganda, because they run stand-alone HIV clinics. Data were analyzed by thematic approach as guided by the theory proposed by Shediac-Rizkallah & Bone (1998) which identifies; Intervention characteristics, organizational context, and broader environment factors as potentially influential on health programme sustainability. Results Intervention characteristics: Provider stigma was reported to have been widespread in the integrated care experience of participating health facilities which necessitated the establishment of stand-alone HIV clinics. HIV disease management was described as highly specialized which necessitated a dedicated workforce and vertical HIV infrastructure such as counselling rooms. Organizational context: Participating health facilities reported health-system capacity constraints in implementing integrated systems of care due to a shortage of ART-proficient personnel and physical space, a lack of laboratory capacity to concurrently conduct HIV and non-HIV tests and increased workloads associated with implementing integrated care. Broader environment factors: Escalating HIV client loads and external HIV funding architectures were perceived to have perpetuated verticalized HIV programming over the past decade. Conclusion Our study offers in-depth, contextualized insights into the factors contributing to the endurance of vertical HIV clinics in Uganda. Our analysis suggests that there is a complex interaction in supply-side constraints (shortage of ART-proficient personnel, increased workloads, laboratory capacity deficiencies) and demand-side factors (escalating demand for HIV services, psychosocial barriers to HIV care) as well as the specialized nature of HIV disease management which pose challenges to the integrated-health services agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Zakumumpa
- School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Joseph Rujumba
- School of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Edith Namulema
- Home care and counselling department, Mengo Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alex Muganzi
- The Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Reproduction and Fertility Beliefs, Perceptions, and Attitudes in People Living with HIV. AIDS Res Treat 2018; 2018:5349793. [PMID: 29805805 PMCID: PMC5899855 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5349793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLWH) have distinct needs when it comes to reproductive health, specifically regarding fertility, family planning, and pregnancy, and these needs are often complicated by HIV status. While there is ample research that focuses on reproductive health in PLWH through a quantitative lens, there is a lack of research using qualitative methods, namely, the narrative interview model. We searched PubMed and relevant abstracts to identify 72 articles published from 1997 to 2016 that described a qualitative framework for exploring the behaviors and perceptions regarding family planning, abortion, pregnancy, parenthood, fertility, and forced sterility in PLWH. The inclusion criteria initially showed 147 articles, which were further screened to exclude those that did not address fertility and family planning specifically. Our final sample of articles included articles related to qualitative research on reproductive attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of PLWH. Several of these articles were mixed-methods analyses, but our focus was on the qualitative portion only. Further qualitative works in this area will not only contribute to gaps quantitative research in the field cannot capture by design, but also inform clinical practice, policy, and interventions through systematic, in-depth evaluation.
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Acheampong AK, Naab F, Kwashie A. The Voices That Influence HIV-Positive Mothers' Breastfeeding Practices in an Urban, Ghanaian Society. J Hum Lact 2018; 34:176-183. [PMID: 29268662 DOI: 10.1177/0890334417740345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization recommends that HIV-positive mothers should breastfeed for at least 1 year. There are people in the lives of these mothers who influence their decisions. Research aim: The aim was to explore the role of social persuasion in the decision-making processes of HIV-positive breastfeeding mothers. METHODS A qualitative, exploratory research design was employed ( N = 13). Participants were recruited from a public hospital in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. One-on-one interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and the contents of the transcripts were analyzed for emerging themes. RESULTS The perspectives of spouses, health workers, counselors, and siblings about breastfeeding affect the breastfeeding practices of mothers living with HIV in Ghana. Most of the women had negative experiences with their midwives. Because of complex social and cultural influences, the opinions of spouses, health professionals, siblings, and members of the communities in which breastfeeding mothers with HIV live influence breastfeeding practices. CONCLUSION This study described HIV-positive, breastfeeding mothers' perceptions of the role played by spouses, health professionals, siblings, and the community in breastfeeding decisions and practices. Influential people in the lives of breastfeeding mothers with HIV should be involved during interventions by HIV counselors to promote breastfeeding practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florence Naab
- 2 Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Adzo Kwashie
- 3 Department of Education and Administration, School of Nursing, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
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Williams K, Haire BG, Nathan S. 'They say God punishes people with HIV': experiences of stigma and discrimination among adults with HIV in Dili, Timor-Leste. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2017; 19:1108-1121. [PMID: 28276919 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2017.1293845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the experiences of people with HIV in the small island nation of Timor-Leste. This study explored the HIV-related stigma experiences of adults aged between 18 and 40 living with HIV in Dili, Timor-Leste. Participants were interviewed on topics related to living with HIV, both as key informants describing the experience of others with HIV known to them, and also with respect to their own personal experiences. Findings suggest that people with HIV in Timor-Leste face stigma and discrimination in various contexts. In this predominantly Catholic country, perceptions of HIV and attitudes towards people with HIV appear to be commonly shaped by religious beliefs. In families and communities, participants encountered gossip, social exclusion and threats of violence. In health settings, participants experienced discrimination from health providers in the form of failing to maintain confidentiality and inappropriate treatment. The impact of stigma was profoundly negative and influenced participants' decision to disclose their status to others. Participants attributed stigma to a lack of information about HIV among the general public. Unless stigma reduction interventions also address the Church's role in shaping perceptions of HIV, education campaigns are unlikely to be effective in reducing HIV-related stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Williams
- a School of Public Health and Community Medicine , UNSW Sydney , Sydney , Australia
| | - Bridget G Haire
- b Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity in Society, UNSW , Sydney , Australia
| | - Sally Nathan
- a School of Public Health and Community Medicine , UNSW Sydney , Sydney , Australia
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Warren CE, Mayhew SH, Hopkins J. The Current Status of Research on the Integration of Sexual and Reproductive Health and HIV Services. Stud Fam Plann 2017; 48:91-105. [PMID: 28493283 PMCID: PMC5518217 DOI: 10.1111/sifp.12024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Integration of services for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and HIV has been widely promoted globally in the belief that both clients and health providers benefit through improvements in quality, efficient use of resources, and lower costs, helping to maximize limited health resources and provide comprehensive client-centered care. This article builds on the growing body of research on integrated sexual SRH and HIV services. It brings together critical reviews on issues within the wider SRH and rights agenda and synthesizes recent research on integrated services, drawing on the Integra Initiative and other major research. Unintended pregnancy and HIV are intrinsically interrelated SRH issues, however broadening the constellation of services, scaling up, and mainstreaming integration continue to be challenging. Overcoming stigma, reducing gender-based violence, and meeting key populations' SRH needs are critical. Health systems research using SRH as the entry point for integrated services and interaction with communities and clients is needed to realize universal health coverage.
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Nikus Fido N, Aman M, Brihnu Z. HIV stigma and associated factors among antiretroviral treatment clients in Jimma town, Southwest Ethiopia. HIV AIDS-RESEARCH AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2016; 8:183-193. [PMID: 27920581 PMCID: PMC5126004 DOI: 10.2147/hiv.s114177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV stigma has an important role in the spread of the AIDS epidemic. It profoundly affects the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Fear of being identified as having HIV may discourage a person from getting tested, accessing medical services, and obtaining medications. Thus, this study was aimed at assessing HIV-related stigma and associated factors among antiretroviral treatment (ART) clients in Jimma town, Oromia region, Southwest Ethiopia. METHODS A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 11 to April 26, 2015, in ART clinics in Jimma town. Consecutively identified sample was obtained from ART clients who voluntarily participated in the survey after signing written consent. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Multiple linear regressions were conducted to assess the factors associated with various stigma domains. RESULTS Out of 349 clients requested, 318 (91.1%) respondents voluntarily participated in the study; among them, 204 (64.2%) respondents were females and the mean age of the respondents was 32.9 years. The mean score (and possible range) of experienced HIV stigma was 41.5±12.6 (20.0-86.7), internalized stigma was 50.5±16.4 (20-96.5), and perceived stigma was 56.2±19.2 (20-100). CONCLUSION The study revealed that duration of ART use and provider-initiated and forced HIV testing were significantly associated with the three HIV stigma domains. Despite the lower experienced HIV stigma, there were higher internalized and perceived stigmas. Therefore, HIV counseling services should be strengthened for new ART beginners, including pretest counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neno Nikus Fido
- Department of Health Education and Behavioral Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Mamusha Aman
- Department of Health Education and Behavioral Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdie Brihnu
- Department of Health Education and Behavioral Sciences, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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Colombini M, Mayhew SH, Mutemwa R, Kivunaga J, Ndwiga C. Perceptions and Experiences of Integrated Service Delivery Among Women Living with HIV Attending Reproductive Health Services in Kenya: A Mixed Methods Study. AIDS Behav 2016; 20:2130-40. [PMID: 27071390 PMCID: PMC4995223 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-016-1373-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This is one of the few studies that explores preferences of and experiences with integrated sexual and reproductive health (SRH)-HIV care among users of mainstream family planning and postnatal care services who are women living with HIV (WLWH). This paper reports on the quantitative data from 179 clients attending public sector clinics and from 30 qualitative in-depth interviews with WLHIV in Kenya. Quantitative data show that integration is happening for the vast majority of these clients at their last HIV visit. However, qualitative data show that very often the care received by WLWH is fragmented as providers do not offer multiple same-day appointments for FP and ARV refills. Our study has shown factors that could either prevent or enable receipt of integrated SRH and HIV care for WLWH. To address these factors, management systems need to be able to support providers to make flexible decisions and facilitate better coordination and communication across clinics within facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Colombini
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - S H Mayhew
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - R Mutemwa
- Health Systems Strengthening & Primary Health Care, Centre for Infectious Disease Research Zambia (CIDRZ), Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - C Ndwiga
- Reproductive Health Program, Population Council, Nairobi, Kenya
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The risks of partner violence following HIV status disclosure, and health service responses: narratives of women attending reproductive health services in Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2016; 19:20766. [PMID: 27037140 PMCID: PMC4819069 DOI: 10.7448/ias.19.1.20766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction For many women living with HIV (WLWH), the disclosure of positive status can lead to either an extension of former violence or new conflict specifically associated with HIV status disclosure. This study aims to explore the following about WLWH: 1. the women's experiences of intimate partner violence (IPV) risks following disclosure to their partners; 2. an analysis of the women's views on the role of health providers in preventing and addressing IPV, especially following HIV disclosure. Methods Thirty qualitative interviews were conducted with purposively selected WLWH attending clinics in Kenya. Data were coded using NVivo 9 and analyzed thematically. Results Nearly one third of the respondents reported experiencing physical and/or emotional violence inflicted by their partners following the sero-disclosure, suggesting that HIV status disclosure can be a period of heightened risk for partner stigma and abuse, and financial withdrawal, and thus should be handled with caution. Sero-concordance was protective for emotional and verbal abuse once the partner knew his positive status, or knew the woman knew his status. Our results show acceptance of the role of the health services in helping prevent and reduce anticipated fear of partner stigma and violence as barriers to HIV disclosure. Some of the approaches suggested by our respondents included couple counselling, separate counselling sessions for men, and facilitated disclosure. The women's narratives illustrate the importance of integrating discussions on risks for partner violence and fear of disclosure into HIV counselling and testing, helping women develop communication skills in how to disclose their status, and reducing fear about marital separation and break-up. Women in our study also confirmed the key role of preventive health services in reducing blame for HIV transmission and raising awareness on HIV as a chronic disease. However, several women reported receiving no counselling on safe disclosure of HIV status. Conclusion Integration of partner violence identification and care into sexual, reproductive and HIV services for WLWH could be a way forward. The health sector can play a preventive role by sensitizing providers to the potential risks for partner violence following disclosure and ensuring that the women's decision to disclose is fully informed and voluntary.
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Conserve DF, Groves AK, Maman S. Effectiveness of interventions promoting HIV serostatus disclosure to sexual partners: a systematic review. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1763-72. [PMID: 25645328 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1006-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Disclosure of HIV serostatus to sexual partners is mandated within certain states in the United States and other countries. Despite these laws implemented and public health efforts to increase disclosure, rates of disclosure to sexual partners among people living with HIV (PLWH) remain low, suggesting the need for interventions to assist PLWH with the disclosure process. We conducted a systematic review of studies testing whether HIV serostatus disclosure interventions increase disclosure to sexual partners. We searched six electronic databases and screened 484 records. Five studies published between 2005 and 2012 met inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Results showed that three of the HIV serostatus disclosure-related intervention studies were efficacious in promoting disclosure to sexual partners. Although all three studies were conducted in the United States the intervention content and measurements of disclosure across the studies varied, so broad conclusions are not possible. The findings suggest that more rigorous HIV serostatus disclosure-related intervention trials targeting different populations in the United States and abroad are needed to facilitate disclosure to sexual partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27509, USA.
| | - Allison K Groves
- Department of Sociology, Center on Health, Risk and Society, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Suzanne Maman
- Department of Health Behavior, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27509, USA
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Kimani J, Warren C, Abuya T, Mutemwa R, Mayhew S, Askew I. Family planning use and fertility desires among women living with HIV in Kenya. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:909. [PMID: 26381120 PMCID: PMC4574729 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2218-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Enabling women living with HIV to effectively plan whether and when to become pregnant is an essential right; effective prevention of unintended pregnancies is also critical to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality as well as vertical transmission of HIV. The objective of this study is to examine the use of family planning (FP) services by HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in Kenya and their ability to achieve their fertility desires. Methods Data are derived from a random sample of women seeking family planning services in public health facilities in Kenya who had declared their HIV status (1887 at baseline and 1224 at endline) and who participated in a longitudinal study (the INTEGRA Initiative) that measured the benefits/costs of integrating HIV and sexual/reproductive health services in public health facilities. The dependent variables were FP use in the last 12 months and fertility desires (whether a woman wants more children or not). The key independent variable was HIV status (positive and negative). Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to describe the women’s characteristics and to examine the relationship between FP use, fertility desires and HIV status. Results At baseline, 13 % of the women sampled were HIV-positive. A slightly higher proportion of HIV-positive women were significantly associated with the use of FP in the last 12 months and dual use of FP compared to HIV-negative women. Regardless of HIV status, short-acting contraceptives were the most commonly used FP methods. A higher proportion of HIV-positive women were more likely to be associated with unintended (both mistimed and unwanted) pregnancies and a desire not to have more children. After adjusting for confounding factors, the multivariate results showed that HIV-positive women were significantly more likely to be associated with dual use of FP (OR = 3.2; p < 0.05). Type of health facility, marital status and household wealth status were factors associated with FP use. Factors associated with fertility desires were age, education level and household wealth status. Conclusions The findings highlight important gaps related to utilization of FP among WLHIV. Despite having a greater likelihood of reported use of FP, HIV-positive women were more likely to have had an unintended pregnancy compared to HIV-negative women. This calls for need to strengthen family planning services for WLHIV to ensure they have better access to a wide range of FP methods. There is need to encourage the use of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and prevention of vertical transmission of HIV. However, such policies should be based on respect for women’s right to informed reproductive choice in the context of HIV/AIDS. Trial registration NCT01694862
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Affiliation(s)
- James Kimani
- Population Council, General Accident Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 17643-00500, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Charlotte Warren
- Population Council, General Accident Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 17643-00500, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Timothy Abuya
- Population Council, General Accident Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 17643-00500, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Richard Mutemwa
- Population Council, General Accident Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 17643-00500, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | | | - Susannah Mayhew
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9SH, London, UK.
| | - Ian Askew
- Population Council, General Accident Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road, P.O. Box 17643-00500, Nairobi, Kenya.
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Barriers and facilitators adolescent females living with HIV face in accessing contraceptive services: a qualitative assessment of providers' perceptions in western Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2015; 18:20123. [PMID: 26385854 PMCID: PMC4575411 DOI: 10.7448/ias.18.1.20123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Avoiding unintended pregnancies is important for the health of adolescents living with HIV and has the additional benefit of preventing potential vertical HIV transmission. Health facility providers represent an untapped resource in understanding the barriers and facilitators adolescents living with HIV face when accessing contraception. By understanding these barriers and facilitators to contraceptive use among adolescent females living with HIV, this study aimed to understand how best to promote contraception within this marginalized population. Methods We conducted structured in-depth interviews with 40 providers at 21 Family AIDS Care & Education Services - supported clinics in Homabay, Kisumu and Migori counties in western Kenya from July to August 2014. Our interview guide explored the providers’ perspectives on contraceptive service provision to adolescent females living with HIV with the following specific domains: contraception screening and counselling, service provision, commodity security and clinic structure. Transcripts from the interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results According to providers, interpersonal factors dominated the barriers adolescent females living with HIV face in accessing contraception. Providers felt that adolescent females fear disclosing their sexual activity to parents, peers and providers, because of repercussions of perceived promiscuity. Furthermore, providers mentioned that adolescents find seeking contraceptive services without a male partner challenging, because some providers and community members view adolescents unaccompanied by their partners as not being serious about their relationships or having multiple concurrent relationships. On the other hand, providers noted that institutional factors best facilitated contraception for these adolescents. Integration of contraception and HIV care allows easier access to contraceptives by removing the stigma of coming to a clinic solely for contraceptive services. Youth-friendly services, including serving youth on days separate from adults, also create a more comfortable setting for adolescents seeking contraceptive services. Conclusions Providers at these facilities identified attitudes of equating seeking contraceptive services with promiscuity by parents, peers and providers as barriers preventing adolescent females living with HIV from accessing contraceptive services. Health facilities should provide services for adolescent females in a youth-friendly manner and integrate HIV and contraceptive services.
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