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Kiyingi J, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Nabunya P, Kizito S, Nabayinda J, Nattabi J, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Namuwonge F, Nakabuye F, Nanteza F, Filippone PL, Mukasa D, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Examining the Intrapersonal, Interpersonal and Community Level Correlates of Access to Medical Care Among Women Employed by Sex Work in Southern Uganda: A cross-sectional Analysis of the Kyaterekera Study. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:2350-2360. [PMID: 38605251 PMCID: PMC11199097 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04333-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Women employed by sex work (WESW) experience significant gaps in accessing necessary healthcare services, leading to unmet health needs. Yet, there is a dearth of literature on the barriers to medical care access among WESW in Uganda. We used data from the Kyaterekera baseline to examine the correlates of access to medical care among WESW, defined as the ability of individuals to obtain the necessary healthcare services they require in a timely, affordable, and equitable manner. The Kyaterekera study recruited 542 WESW aged 18-58 years from Southern Uganda. We conducted a multilevel linear regression model to determine the intrapersonal (age, education level, marital status, HIV knowledge, and asset ownership), interpersonal (family cohesion and domestic violence attitudes), and community (community satisfaction, sex work stigma and distance to health facility) level correlates of access to medical care among WESW. Intrapersonal and interpersonal factors were associated with access to medical care among WESW. There was no significant association between community level factors and access to medical care. WESW with secondary education (β = 0.928, 95% CI = 0.007, 1.849) were associated with increased access to medical care. WESW with high asset ownership (β = -1.154, 95% CI= -1.903, -0.405), high family cohesion (β = -0.069, 95% CI= -0.106, -0.031), and high domestic violence attitudes (β = -0.253, 95% CI= -0.438, -0.068) were associated with decreased access to medical care. The findings emphasize the critical need for targeted family strengthening interventions to enhance family support for WESW and address domestic violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Heath Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina, 316 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Fatuma Nakabuye
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Flavia Nanteza
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Prema L Filippone
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, 1 Washington Square North, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Dinah Mukasa
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social, Work1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Goldfarb, Room 346 Campus Box 1196, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Nattabi J, Bahar OS, Nabayinda J, Nabunya P, Kiyingi J, Kizito S, Namuwonge F, Nsubuga E, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Crossroads of Choice: A qualitative study of the factors influencing decisions to transition from sex work among women engaged in sex work in Southern Uganda. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4468785. [PMID: 38883774 PMCID: PMC11177997 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4468785/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Background Women Engaged in commercial Sex Work (WESW) are exposed to behavioral, biological, and structural factors that exacerbate their risk to HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections. While commercial sex work may appear voluntary, WESW are more likely to be constrained to selling sex due to limited viable alternatives. To effectively support this vulnerable group of women, it is critical to understand factors that facilitate and impede their decisions to transition from sex work into other careers or jobs. The current study explored women's decision to transition from sex work into other careers or jobs. Methods Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 53 WESW aged 20-47 enrolled within a larger study-Kyaterekera study, a randomized clinical trial (N = 542) implemented in 19 HIV hotspots in the Southern region of Uganda. Participants were selected based on their intervention attendance (high/medium/low attendance). The interviews were conducted in Luganda the widely spoken language in the study area to explore the factors influencing women's decisions to from transition from sex work to other jobs or careers. The main interview question used for this study was, "What are some of the factors that may influence whether you would transition from sex work to other jobs or vocations?". All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated into English. Thematic analysis in Dedoose software was used to analyze the data. Results Participants reported three primary types of decisions, including considering leaving sex work, deciding to leave, and continuing sex work. The emerging themes from the interviews were categorized into individual and structural level facilitators and barriers to leave sex work. Individual level factors included issues of stigma, discrimination, and aging as factors that facilitated women's decision to leave sex work. At the structural level, factors which include interpersonal stigma and discrimination (from immediate family and community members), physical and sexual violence and income related factors were identified as facilitators and barriers to leaving sex work. Conclusion Our study highlights the complex decision-making processes among WESW as they navigate transitions to alternative jobs or careers. By advocating for multifaceted interventions and policies tailored to the diverse challenges faced by WESW, our study contributes to a more informed approach to supporting their transition out of sex work.
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Tozan Y, Kiyingi J, Kim S, Nabayinda J, Namuwonge F, Nsubuga E, Nakabuye F, Sensoy OB, Nabunya P, Mayo-Wilson LJ, McKay MM, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Costing of a Combination Intervention (Kyaterekera) Addressing Sexual Risk-Taking Behaviors among Vulnerable Women in Southern Uganda. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:1046-1056. [PMID: 38579695 PMCID: PMC11066365 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
In Uganda, women engaged in sex work (WESW) are a marginalized population at the intersection of multiple vulnerabilities. The Kyaterekera intervention is targeted at WESW in Rakai and the greater Masaka regions in Uganda and combines a traditional HIV risk-reduction approach with a savings-led economic empowerment intervention and financial literacy training. We estimated the economic costs of the Kyaterekera intervention from a program provider perspective using a prospective activity-based micro-costing method. All program activities and resource uses were measured and valued across the control arm receiving a traditional HIV risk-reduction intervention and the treatment arm receiving a matched individual development savings account and financial literacy training on top of HIV risk reduction. The total per-participant cost by arm was adjusted for inflation and discounted at an annual rate of 3% and presented in 2019 US dollars. The total per-participant costs of the control and intervention arms were estimated at $323 and $1,435, respectively, using the per-protocol sample. When calculated based on the intent-to-treat sample, the per-participant costs were reduced to $183 and $588, respectively. The key cost drivers were the capital invested in individual development accounts and personnel and transportation costs for program operations, linked to WESW's higher mobility and the dispersed pattern of hot spot locations. The findings provide evidence of the economic costs of implementing a targeted intervention for this marginalized population in resource-constrained settings and shed light on the scale of potential investment needed to better achieve the health equity goal of HIV prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesim Tozan
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Sooyoung Kim
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, New York
| | | | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Fatuma Nakabuye
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Ozge Bahar Sensoy
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Mary M. McKay
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Susan S. Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
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Kizito S, Namuwonge F, Nabayinda J, Nalwanga D, Najjuuko C, Nabunya P, Atwebembere R, Namuyaba OI, Mukasa M, Ssewamala FM. A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial of an Economic Strengthening Intervention to Enhance Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence among Adolescents Living with HIV. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:1570-1580. [PMID: 38231361 PMCID: PMC11070301 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04268-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
We examined the impact of an economic empowerment intervention on ART adherence among ALHIV. We used data from 455 ALHIV, randomized into intervention, n = 111, and control n = 344. ALHIV were aged 12-16 and recruited from 39 clinics in Uganda between January 2013 and December 2015. The intervention comprised a long-term child development account (CDA), micro-enterprise workshops, and educational sessions. Adherence was measured using unannounced pill counts. We used mixed-effects logistic regression analysis to examine the effect of the intervention on ART adherence. The mean age was 12.6 years. Despite observing non-significant group main effects, we found significant group-by-time interaction effects χ2(5) = 45.41, p < 0.001. Pairwise comparisons showed that compared to the control group, participants who received the intervention had significantly higher adherence at visit four, OR = 1.52 (95% CI: 1.07-2.18), p = 0.020; visit five, OR = 1.59 (95% CI: 1.06-2.38), p = 0.026; and visit six, OR = 1.94 (95% CI: 1.24-3.04), p = 0.004. Efforts to support ALHIV to live longer and healthier lives should incorporate components addressing poverty. However, declining adherence raises concerns over ALHIV's long-term well-being. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, registration number NCT01790373, with a primary outcome of adherence to HIV treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Damalie Nalwanga
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Claire Najjuuko
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | | | | | - Miriam Mukasa
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Nabayinda J, Witte SS, Kizito S, Nanteza F, Nsubuga E, Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Ssewamala FM. The impact of an economic empowerment intervention on intimate partner violence among women engaged in sex work in southern Uganda: A cluster randomized control trial. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116846. [PMID: 38581814 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116846] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are at heightened risk of experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) compared to women in the general population. This study examines the impact of an economic empowerment intervention on IPV among WESW in Southern Uganda. We used data from 542 WESW in Southern Uganda recruited from 19 HIV hotspots between June 2019 and March 2020. Eligible participants were 18+ years old, engaged in sex work-defined as vaginal or anal sexual intercourse in exchange for money, alcohol, or other goods, reported at least one episode of unprotected sexual intercourse in the past 30 days with a paying, casual, or regular sexual partner (spouse, main partner). We analyzed data collected at baseline, 6, and 12months of follow up. To examine the impact of the intervention on IPV, separate mixed-effects logistic regression models were run for each type of IPV (physical, emotional, and sexual) as experienced by participants in the last 90 days. Results show that the intervention was efficacious in reducing emotional and physical IPV as evidenced by a statistically significant intervention main effect for emotional IPV, χ2(1) = 5.96, p = 0.015, and a significant intervention-by-time interaction effect for physical IPV, χ2(2) = 13.19, p < 0.001. To qualify the intervention impact on physical IPV, pairwise comparisons showed that participants who received the intervention had significantly lower levels of physical IPV compared to those in the control group at six months (contrasts = -0.12 (95% CI: -0.22, -0.02), p = 0.011). The intervention, time, and intervention-by-time main effects for sexual IPV were not statistically significant. Our findings suggest economic empowerment interventions as viable strategies for reducing emotional IPV among WESW. However, it is also essential to understand the role of interventions in addressing other forms of IPV especially for key populations at high risk of violence, HIV, and STI. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03583541.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Nanteza
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka Office, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health, and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Nabayinda J, Namirembe R, Kizito S, Nsubuga E, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Magorokosho N, Kiyingi J, Nattabi J, Tozan Y, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Mwebembezi A, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Correlates of Intimate Partner Violence Among Young Women Engaged in Sex Work in Southern Uganda. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:10749-10770. [PMID: 37212371 PMCID: PMC10524718 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231175908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant global public health problem that results in high social and economic costs to individuals and communities. Compared to women in the general population, women engaged in sex work (WESW) are more likely to experience physical, emotional, and sexual IPV. This study examines the correlates of IPV among young WESW with their intimate partners in Southern Uganda. We used baseline data from the Kyaterekera project, a 5 year NIH-funded longitudinal study aimed at reducing HIV risks among 542 WESW in Southern Uganda. To examine the factors associated with IPV, we fitted three separate multi-level Poisson regression models for physical, emotional, and sexual IPV, respectively. Average age was 31.4 years, and 54% of the women reported being victims of at least one form of IPV from their intimate partners. Model one assessed correlates of sexual IPV. Being married women (β = .71, 95% CI [0.24, 1.17]), divorced/separated/widowed (β = .52, [0.02, 1.02]), depressed (β = .04, [0.02, 0.05]), and having any sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (β = .58, [0.14, 1.01]) were associated with sexual IPV. Model two assessed correlates of physical IPV. Experience of childhood sexual abuse (β = .12, [0.04, 0.19]) was associated with an increase in physical IPV, and increasing age reduced its occurrence (β = -.02, [-0.04, -0.001]). Finally, model three assessed emotional IPV. Women with higher education (β = .49, [0.14, 0.85]) and symptoms of depression (β = .02, [0.001, 0.04]) had higher risks for emotional IPV. For WESW, IPV presents an additional potential pathway for HIV and STIs acquisition and transmission through a lack of negotiating power for safe sex. Efforts to reduce violence against WESW should be prioritized as a strategy for enhancing the well-being of WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rashida Namirembe
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, MO, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, MO, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Susan S. Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
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Kiyingi J, Witte SS, Nabunya P, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Kizito S, Nattabi J, Nabayinda J, Ssewamala FM. Predictors of mobility among women engaged in commercial sex work in Uganda using generalized estimating equations model. Int J STD AIDS 2023; 34:633-640. [PMID: 37018458 PMCID: PMC10523898 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231167910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) are at a higher risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV. WESW are highly mobile, and their mobility may increase their economic status, and increased access to healthcare and other social services. However, it may also facilitate the spread of HIV infection from higher to lower prevalence regions. This study examined the predictors of mobility among WESW in Uganda using a generalized estimating equations model. METHODS We defined and measured mobility as the change in residence by WESW between baseline, 6 months, and 12 months follow-up. Participants who changed places were considered mobile, and those who never changed were non-mobile. We used data from a longitudinal study, which recruited 542 WESW from Southern Uganda aged 18-55 years and constructed a Generalized Estimating Equations Model. RESULTS Findings show that 19.6% of WESW changed residence between baseline and 6 months of follow-up and 26.2% (cumulative) between baseline and 12 months of follow-up. Older women (OR = 0.966, 95% CI = 0.935, 0.997) were associated with decreased odds of mobility, whereas WESW who were HIV positive (OR = 1.475, 95% CI = 1.078, 2.018) and those from large households (OR = 1.066, 95% CI = 1.001, 1.134) were associated with increased odds of mobility. WESW residing in rural areas (OR = 0.535, 95% CI = 0.351, 0.817) were associated with decreased odds of mobility compared to those from fishing sites. CONCLUSION The results indicate risk factors for mobility, further research is needed to determine the directionality of these factors in order to design interventions addressing mobility among WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University, School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Samuel Kizito
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), St Louis, MO, USA
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Yang LS, Witte SS, Kiyingi J, Nabayinda J, Nsubuga E, Nabunya P, Sensoy Bahar O, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Ssewamala FM. Conducting high-frequency data collection in low-resource settings: Lessons from a financial diary study among women engaged in sex work in Uganda. JOURNAL OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 34:783-796. [PMID: 39081849 PMCID: PMC11286217 DOI: 10.1080/10911359.2023.2229404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Poverty and economic insecurity are driving forces in entering sex work among women in low resource areas. This increases their risk for HIV by influencing the decision-making process for high-risk behaviors. Few studies examine financial behaviors and capacities of women engaged in sex work (WESW). This paper describes the methodology used in a financial diary study aimed at characterizing women's spending patterns within a larger prevention intervention trial among WESW in Uganda. From June 2019 to March 2020, a subsample of 150 women randomized to the combination HIV prevention and economic empowerment treatment were asked to complete financial diaries to monitor daily expenditures in real time. Two hundred forty financial diaries were distributed to study participants during the financial literacy sessions at 8 sites. A total of 26,919 expense entries were recorded over 6 months. Sex work related expenses comprised approximately 20.01% of the total. The process of obtaining quality and consistent data was challenging due to the transient and stigmatized nature of sex work coupled with women's varying levels of education. Frequent check-ins, using peer support, code word or visuals, and a shorter timeframe would allow for a more accurate collection of high frequency data. Moreover, the ability of women to complete the financial diaries despite numerous challenges speaks to their potential value as a data collection tool, and also as an organizing tool for finances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyla Sunyoung Yang
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Susan S. Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Uganda
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Uganda
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall CB7400, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Peterson SK, Kiyingi J, Nabunya P, Sensoy Bahar O, Yang LS, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Examining Cash Expenditures and Associated HIV-Related Behaviors Using Financial Diaries in Women Employed by Sex Work in Rural Uganda: Findings from the Kyaterekera Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5612. [PMID: 37174132 PMCID: PMC10178413 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women employed by sex work (WESW) have a high risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and experience economic barriers in accessing care. However, few studies have described their financial lives and the relationship between expenditures and HIV-related behaviors. METHODS This exploratory study used financial diaries to collect expenditure and income data from WESW in Uganda over 6 months. Data were collected as part of a larger trial that tested the efficacy of an HIV prevention intervention method. Descriptive statistics were used to quantify women's income, relative expenditures, and negative cash balances. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to examine the odds of sexual risk behavior or use of HIV medications for several cash scenarios. RESULTS A total of 163 WESW were enrolled; the participants mean age was 32 years old. Sex work was the sole source of employment for most WESW (99%); their average monthly income was $62.32. Food accounted for the highest proportion of spending (44%) followed by sex work (20%) and housing expenditures (11%). WESW spent the least on health care (5%). Expenditures accounted for a large but variable proportion of these women's income (56% to 101%). Most WESW (74%) experienced a negative cash balance. Some also reported high sex work (28%), health care (24%), and education (28%) costs. The prevalence of condomless sex (77%) and sex with drugs/alcohol (70%) was high compared to use of ART/PrEP (Antiretroviral therapy/Pre-exposure prophylaxis) medications (45%). Women's cash expenditures were not statistically significantly associated with HIV-related behaviors. However, the exploratory study observed a consistent null trend of lower odds of condomless sex (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.28-1.70), sex with drugs/alcohol (AOR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.42-2.05), and use of ART/PrEP (AOR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.39-1.67) among women who experienced a negative cash balance versus those who did not. Similar trends were observed for other cash scenarios. CONCLUSION Financial diaries are a feasible tool to assess the economic lives of vulnerable women. Despite having paid work, most WESW encountered a myriad of financial challenges with limited spending on HIV prevention. Financial protections and additional income-generating activities may improve their status. More robust research is needed to understand the potentially complex relationship between income, expenditures, and HIV risk among vulnerable sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Health Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Summer K. Peterson
- Department of Health Behavior, Department of Maternal and Child Health, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Mutuba Ave, Masaka 319, Uganda
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Mutuba Ave, Masaka 319, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Mutuba Ave, Masaka 319, Uganda
| | - Lyla S. Yang
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Susan S. Witte
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Masaka Field Office, Mutuba Ave, Masaka 319, Uganda
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10
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Nabayinda J, Kizito S, Witte S, Nabunnya P, Kiyingi J, Namuwonge F, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Yang LS, Nattabi J, Magorokosho N, Ssewamala FM. Factors Associated with Consistent Condom Use Among Women Engaged in Sex Work: Lessons From the Kyaterekera Study in Southwestern Uganda. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:969-977. [PMID: 36112259 PMCID: PMC9974574 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03833-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
We examined the factors associated with consistent condom use among women engaged in sex work in the Southern parts of Uganda. We used baseline data from a longitudinal study involving WESW from 19 hotspots in Southern Uganda. We conducted hierarchical models to determine the individual, economic, behavioral, and health-related factors associated with consistent condom use. We found that, alcohol use (b=-0.48, 95% CI=-0.77, -0.19), accepting money for condomless sex (b=-0.33, 95% CI=-0.38, -0.28), multiple customers (b=-0.01, 95% CI=-0.01, -0.005), being married (b = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.99), owning more assets (b = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.13), having another income earner in the household (b = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.27, 0.83), condom use self-efficacy (b = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.19), condom use communication (b = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.001, 0.12), and being knowledgeable about HIV/STIs transmission (b = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.15) were associated with consistent condom use. Additionally, 29% of the women were consistent condom users. Hence, there is need to implement interventions that promote consistent condom use among WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Susan Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, 10027, New York, NY, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunnya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka Office, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka Office, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 170 Rosenau Hall CB7400, 27599, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lyla Sunyoung Yang
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, 10027, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Natasja Magorokosho
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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11
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Kiyingi J, Nabunya P, Kizito S, Nabayinda J, Nsubuga E, Bahar OS, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Namuwonge F, Nattabi J, Magorokosho N, Tozan Y, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Self-Reported Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Among Women Engaged in Commercial Sex Work in Southern Uganda. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1004-1012. [PMID: 36066764 PMCID: PMC9974600 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
We examined the correlates of self-reported adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) in Uganda. We used baseline data from a longitudinal study, which recruited 542 WESW in Southern Uganda. We used nested regression models to determine the individual and family, and economic level correlates of self-reported adherence. Study findings show that older age (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.013, 1.139), secondary education (OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.306, 3.084), large household size (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.020, 1.136), high family cohesion (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.052, 1.065), and high financial self-efficacy (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.006, 1.130) were associated with good self-reported adherence to ART. Married women (OR=-0.39, 95% CI = 0.197, 0.774), depression (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.744, 0.969), alcohol use (OR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.548, 0.954), ever been arrested (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.341, 0.997), and high household assets ownership (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.313, 0.724) were associated with poor self-reported adherence to ART. Findings suggest a need to adopt a multi-level approach to address gaps in ART adherence among WESW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, 170 Rosenau Hall, 27599, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Natasja Magorokosho
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yesim Tozan
- New York University College of Global Public Health, 14 East 4th street, 3rd floor, 10003, New York, NY, USA
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, 10027, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, 63130, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Nabayinda J, Witte S, Kiyingi J, Nsubuga E, Schriger S, Nattabi J, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Nakigudde J, Tozan Y, Ssewamala FM. "I decided in my heart I have to complete the sessions": A qualitative study on the acceptability of an evidence-based HIV risk reduction intervention among women engaged in sex work in Uganda. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280138. [PMID: 36634037 PMCID: PMC9836279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The HIV burden remains a critical public health concern and women engaged in sex work [WESW] are at significantly higher risk compared to the general adult population. Similar to other sub-Saharan African countries, Uganda reports high rates of HIV prevalence among WESW. Yet, they have not been targeted by theory-informed HIV prevention intervention approaches. METHODS We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 WESW upon intervention completion to explore their experiences with an evidence-based HIV risk reduction intervention that was implemented as part of a combination intervention tested in a clinical trial in Uganda (2018-2023. Specifically, we explored their initial motivations and concerns for participating in the intervention, barriers and facilitators to attendance, and their feedback on specific intervention characteristics. RESULTS The main expectations revolved around access to health-related information, including information on STIs, HIV, and PrEP as well as on how one can protect themselves while engaging in sex work. Initial concerns were around potential breach of confidentiality and fear of arrest. The main facilitators for session attendance were the motivation to learn health-related information, the attitude of facilitators, and the incentives received for participation, whereas main challenges were related to family commitments and work schedules. WESW appreciated the group format of the intervention and found the location and times of the intervention delivery acceptable. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings suggest that the HIV risk reduction intervention was appropriate and acceptable to WESW. Yet, WESW experience unique concerns and barriers that need to be accounted for when designing interventions targeting this population, especially in resource-limited settings where sex work is illegal and highly stigmatized. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03583541.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Susan Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York City, NY, United States of America
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Simone Schriger
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Janet Nakigudde
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yesim Tozan
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York City, NY, United States of America
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
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13
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Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Yen BJ, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Wright BN, Kiyingi J, Filippone PL, Mwebembezi A, Kagaayi J, Tozan Y, Nabayinda J, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Economic Abuse and Care-seeking Practices for HIV and Financial Support Services in Women Employed by Sex Work: A Cross-Sectional Baseline Assessment of a Clinical Trial Cohort in Uganda. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:NP1920-NP1949. [PMID: 35510547 PMCID: PMC9636073 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221093680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Economic hardship is a driver of entry into sex work, which is associated with high HIV risk. Yet, little is known about economic abuse in women employed by sex work (WESW) and its relationship to uptake of HIV prevention and financial support services. This study used cross-sectional baseline data from a multisite, longitudinal clinical trial that tests the efficacy of adding economic empowerment to traditional HIV risk reduction education on HIV incidence in 542 WESW. Mixed effects logistic and linear regressions were used to examine associations in reported economic abuse by demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, HIV care-seeking, and financial care-seeking. Mean age was 31.4 years. Most WESW were unmarried (74%) and had less than primary school education (64%). 48% had savings, and 72% had debt. 93% reported at least one economic abuse incident. Common incidents included being forced to ask for money (80%), having financial information kept from them (61%), and being forced to disclose how money was spent (56%). WESW also reported partners/relatives spending money needed for bills (45%), not paying bills (38%), threatening them to quit their job(s) (38%), and using physical violence when earning income (24%). Married/partnered WESW (OR = 2.68, 95% CI:1.60-4.48), those with debt (OR = 1.70, 95% CI:1.04-2.77), and those with sex-work bosses (OR = 1.90, 95% CI:1.07-3.38) had higher economic abuse. Condomless sex (β = +4.43, p < .05) was higher among WESW experiencing economic abuse, who also had lower odds of initiating PrEP (OR = .39, 95% CI:.17-.89). WESW experiencing economic abuse were also more likely to ask for cash among relatives (OR = 2.36, 95% CI:1.13-4.94) or banks (OR = 2.12, 95% CI:1.11-4.03). The high prevalence of HIV and economic abuse in WESW underscores the importance of integrating financial empowerment in HIV risk reduction interventions for WESW, including education about economic abuse and strategies to address it. Programs focusing on violence against women should also consider economic barriers to accessing HIV prevention services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- University of North Carolina Gillings School
of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill,
NC, USA
- Community, Global and Public Health
Division, Johns
Hopkins University School of Nursing,
Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bing-Jie Yen
- Department of Applied Health
Science, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University School of Public
Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown
School, St. Louis, MO, USA
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown
School, St. Louis, MO, USA
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Brittanni N. Wright
- Department of Applied Health
Science, Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University School of Public
Health, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown
School, St. Louis, MO, USA
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | | | - Abel Mwebembezi
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
- Reach the Youth
Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Yesim Tozan
- New York University College of Global Public
Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown
School, St. Louis, MO, USA
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
| | | | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis, Brown
School, St. Louis, MO, USA
- International Center for Child Health and
Development, Masaka, Uganda
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Nabayinda J, Kiyingi J, Kizito S, Nsubuga E, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Magorokosho N, Nattabi J, Witte S, Fred Melch S. Does asset ownership influence sexual risk-taking behaviors among women engaged in sex work in Southern Uganda? A mediation analysis. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:537. [PMID: 36550547 PMCID: PMC9773531 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02129-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Economic vulnerability influences women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) to further engage in sexual risk behaviors, as they often have multiple customers and engage in unprotected sex for financial gains. This study examined asset ownership's direct and indirect impact on sexual risk-taking behaviors among WESW in Southern Uganda, a very vulnerable group of women at high risk for contracting HIV and other STIs. METHODOLOGY We used baseline data from the Kyaterekera study, an NIH-funded study among WESW aged 18-55 across 19 HIV hotspots in Southern Uganda. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the direct, indirect, and total effects of assets-defined as ownership of physical and financial resources-on sexual risk-taking behaviors among WESW. RESULTS Results showed that asset ownership was associated with a decrease in depression (β = - 0.096 [95% CI - 0.191, - 0.001], p = 0.050) and increased access to medical care (β = 0.174 [95% CI 0.072, 0.275], p = 0.001).We also found that an increase in access to medical care was associated with decreased sexual risk-taking behaviors (β = - 0.107 [95% CI - 0.210, - 0.004], p = 0.041). We observed a specific indirect effect between assets and sexual risk-taking behaviors through access to medical care (β = - 0.019 [95% CI - 0.040, - 0.002], p = 0.05). Mediation contributed 31% of the total effects of asset ownership on sexual risk-taking behaviors. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is among the few studies to examine the impact of asset ownership on sexual risk-taking behaviors among WESW in Southern Uganda. Findings from this study indicate that increasing access to economic resources may reduce the risk of WESW engaging in unprotected sex for higher income, which limits the spread of HIV among this population. The results also indicate that asset ownership may allow women to access healthcare services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Natasja Magorokosho
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Susan Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Ssewamala Fred Melch
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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Ssewamala FM, McKay MM, Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Neilands T, Kiyingi J, Namatovu P, Guo S, Nakasujja N, Mwebembezi A. Suubi4StrongerFamilies: A study protocol for a clustered randomized clinical trial addressing child behavioral health by strengthening financial stability and parenting among families in Uganda. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:949156. [PMID: 36506418 PMCID: PMC9726732 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.949156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children in Sub-Saharan Africa are burdened by significant unmet mental health needs. Across the region, high rates of poverty, HIV/AIDS, food insecurity, stigma, and an inadequate health safety net system exacerbate serious child behavioral health needs and impede an effective response. Disruptive behavioral disorders are particularly concerning as they persist through adolescence and adulthood. Hence, addressing the context-specific social influences on child behavioral health is critical given that children in the region comprise more than half of the total regional population. Against this backdrop, this study protocol describes a randomized clinical trial that will examine the mechanisms by which economic empowerment and family strengthening interventions targeting social, familial, and context-specific drivers affect the mental health of children in Uganda. Methods The study uses an experimental, longitudinal design across 30 cluster-randomized primary schools to compare single and combination intervention options; influences of economic empowerment and family strengthening on economic, perceptual, and functioning mediators; and context-specific moderators. The study will be conducted with 900 Ugandan children in mid-upper primary school (10-14 years). The three study conditions (n = 300 each) are: (1) economic empowerment only (EE only), (2) multiple family group-based family strengthening only (MFG-based FS only), and (3) combined EE + MFG-based FS. The interventions will be provided for 12 months; and assessments will occur at baseline, 12, 24, and 36 months. Conclusion Children in Sub-Saharan Africa are burdened by significant unmet mental health needs, including disruptive behavior disorders that persist through adolescence and adulthood if left untreated. The proposed study will examine the mechanisms by which economic empowerment and family strengthening interventions targeting social, familial and context-specific drivers affect the mental health of children in mid-upper primary schools in Uganda. Findings from this study can inform group, community, and population approaches that are needed for scalable solutions to address the social drivers negatively impacting child behavioral health in low-resource settings, including in Sub-Saharan Africa. Clinical trial registration [https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [NCT053 68714].
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred M. Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Mary M. McKay
- Vice Provost Office, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Torsten Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, LA, United States
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Phionah Namatovu
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Shenyang Guo
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Kiyingi J, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Tozan Y, Nabayinda J, Namuwonge F, Nsubuga E, Kizito S, Nattabi J, Nakabuye F, Kagayi J, Mwebembezi A, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Prevalence and predictors of HIV and sexually transmitted infections among vulnerable women engaged in sex work: Findings from the Kyaterekera Project in Southern Uganda. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273238. [PMID: 36174054 PMCID: PMC9522279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women engaged in sex work (WESW) have an elevated risk of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI). Estimates are three times higher than the general population. Understanding the predictors of HIV and STI among WESW is crucial in developing more focused HIV and STI prevention interventions among this population. The study examined the prevalence and predictors of HIV and STI among WESW in the Southern part of Uganda. METHODOLOGY Baseline data from the Kyaterekera study involving 542 WESW (ages 18-55) recruited from 19 HIV hotspots in the greater Masaka region in Uganda was utilized. HIV and STI prevalence was estimated using blood and vaginal fluid samples bioassay. Hierarchical regression models were used to determine the predictors of HIV and STI among WESW. RESULTS Of the total sample, 41% (n = 220) were found to be HIV positive; and 10.5% (n = 57) tested positive for at least one of the three STI (Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Trichomonas vaginalis) regardless of their HIV status. Older age (b = 0.09, 95%CI = 0.06, 0.13, p≤0.001), lower levels of education (b = -0.79, 95%CI = -1.46, -0.11, p≤0.05), fewer numbers of children in the household (b = -0.18, 95%CI = -0.36, -0.01), p≤0.05), location (i.e., fishing village (b = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.16, 0.85, p≤0.01) or small town (b = -0.60, 95%CI = -0.92, -0.28, p≤0.001)), drug use (b = 0.58, 95%CI = 0.076, 1.08, p≤0.05) and financial self-efficacy (b = 0.05, 95%CI = -0.10, 0.00, p≤0.05), were associated with the risk of HIV infections among WESW. Domestic violence attitudes (b = -0.24, 95%CI = -0.42, -0.07, p≤0.01) and financial distress (b = -0.07, 95%CI = -0.14, -0.004, p≤0.05) were associated with the risk of STI infection among WESW. CONCLUSION Study findings show a high prevalence of HIV among WESW compared to the general women population. Individual and family level, behavioural and economic factors were associated with increased HIV and STI infection among WESW. Therefore, there is a need for WESW focused HIV and STI risk reduction and economic empowerment interventions to reduce these burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Reach the Youth Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Yesim Tozan
- College of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Edward Nsubuga
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | - Samuel Kizito
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Nattabi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Fatuma Nakabuye
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Masaka, Uganda
| | | | | | - Susan S. Witte
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Childress S, Shrestha N, Anekwe K, Small E, McKay M. Barriers to Help-Seeking for Domestic Violence in Kyrgyzstan: Perspectives of Criminal Justice, Social, Health, and Educational Professionals. GLOBAL SOCIAL WELFARE : RESEARCH, POLICY & PRACTICE 2022; 9:179-192. [PMID: 37293550 PMCID: PMC10249667 DOI: 10.1007/s40609-022-00226-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Research with survivors of domestic violence (DV) suggests that most do not seek supportive services from formal organizations. The purpose of this study is to understand the structural and legal barriers that prevent survivors of DV from seeking help in Kyrgyzstan from the perspectives of professionals within the areas of law enforcement, judicial system, social, health, and educational sectors working directly with survivors. Methods We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews and 8 focus groups with 83 professionals who are employed as domestic violence or legal advocates, psychologists, healthcare providers, educators, and law enforcement officials who had worked with the survivors of DV in their current positions. We analyzed the data using a multistep strategy derived from grounded theory methods. Results The findings of the study highlighted six structural barriers: (1) financial dependence on the abuser, (2) stigma and shame of seeking help, (3) few crisis centers and rigid acceptance criteria for temporary protection, (4) the normalization and societal acceptance of abuse, (5) a lack of property rights for women, and (6) distrust of formal services. The participants indicated five legal barriers, including the following: (1) insufficient sanctions for abusers, (2) unclear provisions and inadequate enforcement of law, (3) a low likelihood of prosecution, (4) poor procedures, stereotypes of survivors, and revictimization during investigations, and (5) protection for abusers who work in positions of power. Conclusions The structural and legal barriers that survivors face when seeking help are formidable challenges that will require extensive support from professionals working in the fields of criminal justice, social work, and public health. Findings suggest that both short-term and longer-term interventions that require sustainability of prevention efforts are necessary to address barriers to help-seeking identified in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saltanat Childress
- Arlington School of Social Work, University of Texas, 211 S. Cooper St., Box 19129, Arlington, TX 76019-0129, USA
| | - Nibedita Shrestha
- Arlington School of Social Work, University of Texas, 211 S. Cooper St., Box 19129, Arlington, TX 76019-0129, USA
| | - Kendall Anekwe
- Arlington School of Social Work, University of Texas, 211 S. Cooper St., Box 19129, Arlington, TX 76019-0129, USA
| | - Eusebius Small
- Arlington School of Social Work, University of Texas, 211 S. Cooper St., Box 19129, Arlington, TX 76019-0129, USA
| | - Mary McKay
- Office of the Provost, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, Campus, Box 1072-0105-02, St. Louis, MO 63130-4899, USA
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Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Nabayinda J, Witte SS, Kiyingi J, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Filippone P, Yang LS, Nakigudde J, Tozan Y, Ssewamala FM. "I expected little, although I learned a lot": perceived benefits of participating in HIV risk reduction sessions among women engaged in sex work in Uganda. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:162. [PMID: 35562821 PMCID: PMC9100307 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01759-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global HIV burden remains a public health concern. Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are at higher risk of acquiring HIV compared to the general adult population. Uganda reports high rates of HIV prevalence among WESW. While WESW in Uganda have long been the subject of surveillance studies, they have not been targeted by theory-informed HIV prevention intervention approaches. In this study, we explored the perceived benefits of an evidence-based HIV risk reduction intervention that was implemented as part of a combination intervention tested in a clinical trial in Uganda. METHODS As part of a larger randomized clinical trial, we conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 WESW selected using a stratified purposive sampling. All interviews were conducted in Luganda, language spoken in the study area, and audio-recorded. They were transcribed verbatim and translated to English. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS WESW's narratives focused on: (1) condom use; (2) alcohol/drug consumption; (3) PrEP use; (4) "handling" customers; and (5) "massaging" customers. WESW agreed that male condom was one of the important learning points for them and planned to continue using them while female condoms were received with mixed reactions. Many women appreciated receiving information about the risks of consuming alcohol and drugs, and discussed how they reduced/ eliminated their consumption. PrEP information was appreciated though identified by fewer WESW. Handling a client was discussed as a helpful strategy for safer sex through improved ability to convince customers to use condoms or avoiding sex. Massaging was also beneficial to avoid penetrative sex, but similar to female condom, massaging also yielded mixed perceptions. CONCLUSION WESW found the intervention beneficial and described ways in which it improved their ability to engage in safer sex and stay healthy. The fact that WESW identified other strategies beyond condom use as helpful underlines the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to behavioral interventions targeting HIV prevention even when combined with other interventions. Additionally, WESW's narratives suggest that incorporating the tenets of social cognitive theory and harm reduction approaches in HIV prevention among this population can result in risk behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Prema Filippone
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Janet Nakigudde
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Yesim Tozan
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, One Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- International Center for Child Health and Development, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Witte SS, Filippone P, Ssewamala FM, Nabunya P, Bahar OS, Mayo-Wilson LJ, Namuwonge F, Damulira C, Tozan Y, Kiyingi J, Nabayinda J, Mwebembezi A, Kagaayi J, McKay M. PrEP acceptability and initiation among women engaged in sex work in Uganda: Implications for HIV prevention. EClinicalMedicine 2022; 44:101278. [PMID: 35128367 PMCID: PMC8808048 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women engaged in sex work (WESW) are disproportionately affected by HIV. In Uganda, HIV prevalence among WESW is estimated at 37%, accounting for 18% of all new infections in the country. WESW experience poverty, gender-based violence, and other issues that reduce their power and limit their ability to negotiate condom use. Female-controlled strategies, including pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), may afford women more transmission protection, but barriers to access and use persist. This cross-sectional study examined baseline PrEP acceptability and initiation among WESW recently enrolled in a randomized clinical trial in Uganda to test the impact of a combination HIV risk reduction and economic empowerment intervention on sexual risk outcomes (clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03583541). METHODS A total of 542 WESW from 19 high HIV-prevalent geographical areas were enrolled in the Kyaterekera study between June 2019 and March 2020. Women were eligible for the study if they: (1) were age 18 or over; (2) reported engagement in transactional sex (a sex act in exchange for pay) in the past 30 days; and (3) reported engagement in one or more episodes of unprotected sex in the past 30 days. Women completed a baseline assessment, were tested for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at enrollment, and were connected with antiretroviral therapy (ART), STI treatment, or PrEP, based on need and interest. Descriptive statistics examined baseline data on PrEP acceptability and initiation. Independent variables (i.e. years in sex work, recent sexual coercion, perceived HIV and sex work stigmas, harmful alcohol use, barriers to medical care, and social support) were derived from the empirical literature and women's self-report. Bivariate analysis was performed to test associations between main effects of these variables. Using binomial logistic regression, predictive models were evaluated for two distinct outcomes-PrEP acceptability and PrEP initiation/uptake. FINDINGS At baseline, 59% of women (n = 322) tested HIV negative. Among WESW testing negative, 11% (n = 36) were already PrEP enrolled. Most women reported willingness to use PrEP (n = 317; 91%). Slightly over half of WESW not already on PrEP agreed to initiate PrEP (n = 158; 55%). Logistic regression models demonstrate that acceptability of or willingness to use PrEP was significantly associated with fewer years engaged in sex work (AOR= ·18, 95% CI 0·05-·66, p<·01) and greater perceived social support from family (AOR= 1·39, 95% CI 1·03 -1.88, p<·05). PrEP initiation was negatively associated with greater perceived social support from friends (AOR=·81, 95% CI ·68-0·97, p<·05) and positively associated with higher perceived stigma due to sex work among family members (AOR=2·20, 95% CI 1·15-4·22, p<·05). INTERPRETATION Despite endorsing PrEP use, many WESW remain reluctant to use it. This gap in prevention practice highlights the heart of a failing PrEP prevention cascade. Findings point to the important role family and friend support may play in destigmatizing sex work and PrEP use for women. Social and structural-level efforts are needed to improve educational messaging and to integrate positive messaging into health promotion campaigns for women and their families, while also working toward decriminalizing sex work. FUNDING This paper was made possible with funding from United States National Institute of Mental Health (Grant number: R01MH116768).
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S. Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, United States
- Corresponding author.
| | - Prema Filippone
- Columbia University School of Social Work, 1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, United States
| | - Fred M. Ssewamala
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, 1025 E. 7TH Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Christopher Damulira
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Yesim Tozan
- New York University School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4rd floor, New York, NY 10003, United States
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
| | | | - Joseph Kagaayi
- Rakai Health Sciences Program, P.O Box 279, Kalisizo, Uganda
| | - Mary McKay
- International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, United States
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20
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Stoner MCD, Kilburn K, Godfrey-Faussett P, Ghys P, Pettifor AE. Cash transfers for HIV prevention: A systematic review. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003866. [PMID: 34843468 PMCID: PMC8668130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the success of cash programs in improving health outcomes and addressing upstream drivers of HIV risk such as poverty and education, there has been an increasing interest in their potential to improve HIV prevention and care outcomes. Recent reviews have documented the impacts of structural interventions on HIV prevention, but evidence about the effects of cash transfer programs on HIV prevention has not been systematically reviewed for several years. METHODS AND FINDINGS We did a systematic review of published and unpublished literature to update and summarize the evidence around cash programs for HIV prevention from January 2000 to December 17, 2020. We included studies with either a cash transfer intervention, savings program, or program to reduce school costs. Included studies measured the program's impact on HIV infection, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or sexual behaviors. We screened 1,565 studies and examined 78 in full-text review to identify a total of 45 peer-reviewed publications and reports from 27 different interventions or populations. We did not do a meta-analysis given the range of outcomes and types of cash transfer interventions assessed. Most studies were conducted in sub-Saharan Africa (N = 23; South Africa, Tanzania, Malawi, Lesotho, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and eSwatini) followed by Mexico (N = 2), the United States (N = 1), and Mongolia (N = 1)). Of the 27 studies, 20 (72%) were randomized trials, 5 (20%) were observational studies, 1 (4%) was a case-control study, and 1 (4%) was quasi-experimental. Most studies did not identify a strong association between the program and sexual behaviors, except sexual debut (10/18 finding an association; 56%). Eight of the 27 studies included HIV biomarkers, but only 3 found a large reduction in HIV incidence or prevalence, and the rest found no statistically significant association. Of the studies that identified a statistically significant association with other STIs (N = 4/8), 2 involved incentives for staying free of the STI, and the other 2 were cash transfer programs for adolescent girls that had conditionalities related to secondary schooling. Study limitations include the small number of studies in key populations and examining interventions to reduce school costs and matched saving programs. CONCLUSIONS The evidence base for large-scale impacts of cash transfers reducing HIV risk is limited; however, government social protection cash transfer programs and programs that incentivize school attendance among adolescent girls and young women show the greatest promise for HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie C. D. Stoner
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Women’s Global Health Imperative, RTI International, Berkeley, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kelly Kilburn
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | | | - Audrey E. Pettifor
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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21
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Nabunya P, Byansi W, Damulira C, Bahar OS, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Tozan Y, Kiyingi J, Nabayinda J, Braithwaite R, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Predictors of Depressive Symptoms and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Women Engaged in Commercial Sex Work in Southern Uganda. Psychiatry Res 2021; 298:113817. [PMID: 33636517 PMCID: PMC8005481 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the factors associated with depressive symptoms and post traumatic depressive disorder (PTSD) among economically vulnerable women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) in southern Uganda. Baseline data from a longitudinal cluster randomized study involving 542 self-identified WESW (18-55 years), recruited from 19 HIV hotspots were analyzed. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was utilized to estimate individual, family-level and economic-level predictors of depressive symptoms and PTSD. Family cohesion, sex work stigma, HIV status, financial distress, household assets, number of children and number of household income earners, were associated with PTSD. Similarly, family cohesion, number of people in the household, HIV status, sex work stigma, financial distress, and household assets, were associated with depressive symptoms. Women engaged in commercial sex work are at a higher risk of HIV and poor mental health outcomes. Sex work stigma and financial distress elevate levels of depressive symptoms and PTSD, over and above an individual's HIV status. Family and economic-level factors have the potential to mitigate the risk of poor mental health outcomes. As such, integrating stigma reduction and economic strengthening components in the programming targeting WESW-a key population, may be critical to address their mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - William Byansi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Christopher Damulira
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Department of Applied Health Science, 1025 E. 7(TH) Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Yesim Tozan
- New York University College of Global Public Health, 14 East 4(th) street, 3(rd) floor. New York, NY 10003, USA.
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Rachel Braithwaite
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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22
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Kako PM, Ngui E, Kako T, Ndakuya-Fitzgerald F, Mkandawire-Valhmu L, Dressel AE, Kiplagat A, Egede LE. Sustaining peer support groups: Insights from women living with HIV in rural Kenya. Public Health Nurs 2021; 38:588-595. [PMID: 33778994 DOI: 10.1111/phn.12879] [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: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE As HIV transitions to a chronic disease, measures that foster continued health are critical. Peer support groups can help in reducing stigma and ensuring wellbeing for those living with HIV. The purpose of our study was to gain an understanding of the ways in which women living with HIV in rural areas sustain peer support groups. DESIGN AND SAMPLE For this descriptive qualitative study, 20 women living with HIV participated in the study. Women were randomly divided into two peer support groups of ten women each; the groups met over a 12-month period. monthly for the first two months and then every three months for the remainder of the year. RESULTS Discussion themes indicated women found ways to sustain the groups by using them as a platform for engaging in income generation; starting and participating in table banking; addressing food security; and finding financial and moral support. Problem-solving challenges of sustaining peer support groups was also a major theme. CONCLUSION As people live longer with HIV, long-term peer support will be needed to maintain wellbeing. Community-based peer support groups can be sustained by engaging women in common income-generation activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peninnah M Kako
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Center for Advancing Population Science, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Emmanuel Ngui
- Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Tavonna Kako
- University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Lucy Mkandawire-Valhmu
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Center for Advancing Population Science, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Anne E Dressel
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Center for Advancing Population Science, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Center for Global Health Equity, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Augustine Kiplagat
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Leonard E Egede
- Center for Advancing Population Science, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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23
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Piwowar-Sulej K, Bąk-Grabowska D. The Impact of Mandate Contract and Self-Employment on Workers' Health-Evidence from Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18063138. [PMID: 33803666 PMCID: PMC8002841 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18063138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the study is to analyze the correlations between two clearly defined forms of non-standard employment (self-employment and mandate contract) and workers' health. The study also addressed such variables as gender, age, length of service, and the reason for employment (voluntary vs. non-voluntary). The research was carried out in Poland in 2020 using the CATI method (a telephone interviewing technique), and it covered a sample of 200 workers (100 self-employed and 100 working under a mandate contract). Most of the respondents declared that their form of employment did not affect their health. However, the statistical analysis showed significant differences in health status between the self-employed and those working on a mandate contract. Self-employed respondents experienced mental health impacts more often, whereas those working under a mandate contract more frequently declared that their physical health was affected. The length of service was only important for mental health, having a negative impact on it. The respondents' age and gender turned out to be statistically insignificant, which is in contradiction to many previous research findings. The inability to choose one's form of employment resulted in worse physical health. These findings demonstrate the importance of certain variables that were not prioritized in previous studies and emphasize the need to clearly define what non-standard and precarious forms of employment are, as well as revealing new correlations between the studied categories and providing directions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Piwowar-Sulej
- Department of Labor Capital and Innovation, Faculty of Management, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, Komandorska St. 118/120, 53-345 Wrocław, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-503-129-991
| | - Dominika Bąk-Grabowska
- Department of Economics and Organization of Enterprise, Faculty of Management, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, Komandorska St. 118/120, 53-345 Wrocław, Poland;
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24
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Ssewamala FM, Sensoy Bahar O, Nabunya P, Thames AD, Neilands TB, Damulira C, Mukasa B, Brathwaite R, Mellins C, Santelli J, Brown D, Guo S, Namatovu P, Kiyingi J, Namuwonge F, McKay MM. Suubi+Adherence-Round 2: A study protocol to examine the longitudinal HIV treatment adherence among youth living with HIV transitioning into young adulthood in Southern Uganda. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:179. [PMID: 33478469 PMCID: PMC7818782 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10202-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth living with HIV (YLHIV) in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) are less likely to adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and other health-related regimens. As a consequence, YLHIV are not only at risk for health problems and mental health comorbidities, but are also at risk for cognitive deficits, including in areas of memory and executive functioning. The Suubi+Adherence study followed 702 adolescents (10-16 years of age) receiving bolstered standard of care and a family economic empowerment intervention comprising an incentivized youth financial savings account (YSA) augmented with financial literacy training (FLT) and peer mentorship. The study findings pointed to superior short-term viral suppression and positive adolescent health and mental health functioning among participants receiving the intervention. The original group of adolescents who received Suubi+Adherence are now transitioning into young adulthood. This paper presents a protocol for the follow-up phase titled Suubi+Adherence Round 2. METHODS The original cohort in Suubi+Adherence will be tracked for an additional five years (2020-2025). Specifically, the long term follow-up will allow to: 1) ascertain the extent to which the short term outcomes identified in the first 6 years of the intervention are maintained as the same group transitions through young adulthood; and 2) address new scientific questions regarding ART adherence; HIV care engagement; protective health behaviors; and the potential of FEE to mitigate the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in YLHIV. Additionally, the team examines the potential mechanisms through which the observed long-term outcomes happen. Moreover, the Suubi+Adherence-Round 2 adds a qualitative component and extends the cost effectiveness component. DISCUSSION Guided by asset and human development theories, Suubi+Adherence-R2 will build on the recently concluded Suubi+Adherence study to conduct one of the largest and longest running studies of YLHIV in SSA as they transition into young adulthood. The study will address new scientific questions regarding long-term ART adherence, HIV care engagement, protective health behaviors, and the potential of FEE to mitigate the development of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in YLHIV. The findings may inform efforts to improve HIV care among Uganda's YLHIV, with potential replicability in other low-resource countries. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , ID: NCT01790373.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred M Ssewamala
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Proscovia Nabunya
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - April D Thames
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, 3620 S. McClintock Avenue Rm 520, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Christopher Damulira
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Barbara Mukasa
- Mildmay Uganda, 12 Km Entebbe Road, Naziba Hill, Lweza, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rachel Brathwaite
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Claude Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical & Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - John Santelli
- Department of Population and Family Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Ave B-4 Suite 432, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Derek Brown
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Shenyang Guo
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Phionah Namatovu
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Flavia Namuwonge
- International Center for Child Health and Development Field Office, Plot 23 Circular Rd, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Mary M McKay
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
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25
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Liu G, Zhang H, Zhu WB, Peng YQ, Ding R, Fan ML, Fan LQ, Li WN. HIV prevalence among 338,432 infertile individuals in Hunan, China, 2012-2018: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238564. [PMID: 32911499 PMCID: PMC7482923 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) varies markedly among different risk groups in China, spreading fromhigh-risk populations to the general population. Indeed, China is in a critical period of HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) prevention and control; however, data regarding HIV testing, infection and coinfection among infertile couples are lacking. This study aimed to estimate the HIV/AIDS prevalence to identify risk factors among infertile couples in Hunan, China. METHODS A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence of HIV/other infections (hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), syphilis, and Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) infections) among 338,432 infertile individuals in Hunan, China, from 2012 to 2018. We calculated linear trends in prevalence using bivariate linear regression. RESULTS The overall prevalence rates of HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, MG, syphilis, and HBV and HCV antibody positivity in this study were 0.04%, 1.73%, 0.05%, 2.60%, 2.15%, 12.01% and 0.56%, respectively. The predominant infection was HBV, followed by MG, syphilis, and chlamydia. Only 1.13% of the participants (382/338432) reported sexually transmitted disease (STD) signs and symptoms suggesting genital tract infection. However, from 2012-2018, the variation in HIV prevalence was not significant (β = 0.000, PTREND = 0.907). The characteristics of the HIV-infected infertile population have not shifted dramatically, with women accounting for 32.56% of HIV cases in China. Overall, 87.60% of HIV-infected individuals have a relatively low education. In total, 37.98% of HIV-positive patients engage in high-risk behaviors. CONCLUSIONS This study expands upon existing knowledge of HIV prevalence in the infertile Chinese population. However, much work is needed to achieve popularization of prevention knowledge and change concept. Routine HIV screening is urgently needed for all adults with high-risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Liu
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Wen-Bing Zhu
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yang-Qin Peng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Rui Ding
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Meng-Lin Fan
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Li-Qing Fan
- The Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Wei-Na Li
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Clinical Research Center For Reproduction and Genetics In Hunan Province, Changsha, China.,Hunan Guangxiu Hi-tech Life Technology Co., Ltd., Changsha, China
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26
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Phylogenetic and Demographic Characterization of Directed HIV-1 Transmission Using Deep Sequences from High-Risk and General Population Cohorts/Groups in Uganda. Viruses 2020; 12:v12030331. [PMID: 32197553 PMCID: PMC7150763 DOI: 10.3390/v12030331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Across sub-Saharan Africa, key populations with elevated HIV-1 incidence and/or prevalence have been identified, but their contribution to disease spread remains unclear. We performed viral deep-sequence phylogenetic analyses to quantify transmission dynamics between the general population (GP), fisherfolk communities (FF), and women at high risk of infection and their clients (WHR) in central and southwestern Uganda. Between August 2014 and August 2017, 6185 HIV-1 positive individuals were enrolled in 3 GP and 10 FF communities, 3 WHR enrollment sites. A total of 2531 antiretroviral therapy (ART) naïve participants with plasma viral load >1000 copies/mL were deep-sequenced. One hundred and twenty-three transmission networks were reconstructed, including 105 phylogenetically highly supported source–recipient pairs. Only one pair involved a WHR and male participant, suggesting that improved population sampling is needed to assess empirically the role of WHR to the transmission dynamics. More transmissions were observed from the GP communities to FF communities than vice versa, with an estimated flow ratio of 1.56 (95% CrI 0.68–3.72), indicating that fishing communities on Lake Victoria are not a net source of transmission flow to neighboring communities further inland. Men contributed disproportionally to HIV-1 transmission flow regardless of age, suggesting that prevention efforts need to better aid men to engage with and stay in care.
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