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Dessale DS, Gebremariam MB, Wolde AA. HIV seroconversion and associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1246734. [PMID: 38660333 PMCID: PMC11039893 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1246734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In countries with limited resources, including Ethiopia, HIV is diagnosed using a rapid serological test, which does not detect the infection during the window period. Pregnant women who test negative for HIV on the first test may seroconvert throughout pregnancy. Women who are seroconverted during pregnancy may not have received interventions, as they are considered HIV-negative unless they are retested for HIV at the end of their pregnancy. Due to limited data on HIV seroconversion, this study aimed to measure the extent of HIV seroconversion and to identify associated factors among seronegative pregnant women attending ANC in Ethiopia. Methods Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative pregnant women attending the ANC in Ethiopia between June and July 2020. Socio-demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were collected through face-to-face questionnaires and participants' records review. HIV retesting was performed to determine the current HIV status of pregnant women. The data collected were entered into Epi data version 4.4.1 and were exported and analyzed by SPSS version 25. A p-value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was entered into multivariable logistic regression analysis and a p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result Of the 494 pregnant women who tested negative for HIV on their first ANC test, six (1.2%) tested positive on repeat testing. Upon multivariable logistic regression, pregnant women who have had a reported history of sexually transmitted infections [AOR = 7.98; 95% CI (1.21, 52.82)], participants' partners reported travel history for work frequently [AOR = 6.00; 95% CI (1.09, 32.99)], and sexually abused pregnant women [AOR = 7.82; 95% CI (1.194, 51.24)] were significantly associated with HIV seroconversion. Conclusion The seroconversion rate in this study indicates that pregnant women who are HIV-negative in early pregnancy are at an ongoing risk of seroconversion throughout their pregnancy. Thus, this study highlights the benefit of a repeat HIV testing strategy in late pregnancy, particularly when the risk of seroconversion or new infection cannot be convincingly excluded. Therefore, repeated testing of HIV-negative pregnant women in late pregnancy provides an opportunity to detect seroconverted pregnant women to enable the timely use of ART to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawit Sisay Dessale
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Asrat Arja Wolde
- National Data Management and Analytics Center, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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2
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Abu-Dayyeh I, Chemaitelly H, Ghunaim M, Hasan T, Abdelnour A, Abu-Raddad LJ. Patterns and trends of hepatitis C virus infection in Jordan: an observational study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1280427. [PMID: 38146470 PMCID: PMC10749371 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1280427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection levels in Jordan remain uncertain. No HCV national population-based survey has ever been conducted in the country. To meet the World Health Organization's target of reducing HCV incidence to ≤5 per 100,000 people per year by 2030, it is essential to determine the infection levels, identify affected individuals and populations, and provide appropriate treatment using direct-acting antivirals to individuals carrying the virus. Methods The study utilized the HCV testing database of 28,798 attendees of Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories in Jordan, covering the period from January 19, 2010, to May 26, 2023. Cross-sectional and cohort study analyses were conducted, including estimating HCV antibody (Ab) prevalence, examining associations with HCV Ab positivity, determining the HCV viremic rate, and estimating HCV incidence rate using a retrospective cohort study design. Results A total of 27,591 individuals, with a median age of 31.3 and 52.9% being females, underwent HCV Ab testing, while 1,450 individuals, with a median age of 42.2 and 32.8% being females, underwent HCV RNA PCR testing. The study sample HCV Ab prevalence was 4.0% (95% CI: 3.7-4.2%). After applying probability weights, the weighted HCV Ab prevalence was 5.8% (95% CI: 4.6-7.3%). Age was strongly associated with HCV Ab positivity, particularly among individuals aged 50 years or older, who had 10-fold higher odds of being HCV Ab positive compared to those aged 10-19 years. Males had 2.41-fold higher odds of testing positive for HCV Ab compared to females. The HCV viremic rate was 54.1% (95% CI: 43.0-65.0%). The cumulative incidence of HCV infection, after 5 years of follow-up, was estimated to be 0.41% (95% CI: 0.17-0.99%). The HCV incidence rate was calculated at 1.19 per 1,000 person-years (95% CI, 0.50-2.87). Conclusion Prevalence and incidence of HCV infection were substantial, estimated at ~5% and 1 per 1,000 person-years, respectively, and highlighting the presence of core groups actively engaged in the virus' acquisition and transmission. The high observed viremic rate indicates the need for expanding HCV treatment efforts to effectively control HCV transmission in Jordan. Utilizing quality diagnostic laboratories and innovative testing strategies is key to identifying infection carriers and facilitating linkage to treatment and care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issa Abu-Dayyeh
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mohammad Ghunaim
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Thaer Hasan
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Amid Abdelnour
- Department of Research and Development, Biolab Diagnostic Laboratories, Amman, Jordan
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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Dwomoh D, Wurie I, Harding Y, Sedzro KM, Kandeh J, Tagoe H, Addo C, Arhinful DK, Sessay ARC, Kamara JL, Mansaray K, Ampofo WK. Estimating prevalence and modelling correlates of HIV test positivity among female sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender people and prison inmates in Sierra Leone, 2021. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:70. [PMID: 37759241 PMCID: PMC10537076 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00566-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Key populations (KPs) are particularly vulnerable to HIV infection and efforts to prevent HIV infections among KPs have been less successful, largely due to existing laws and legislation that classify the groups as illegal. Understanding the HIV infection pathway and the burden of HIV infection among Female Sex Workers (FSWs), Transgender people (TG), Men who have sex with Men (MSM), People who Inject Drugs (PWID), and Prison Inmates (PIs) is critical to combatting the HIV epidemic globally. This study aims to estimate HIV prevalence and model the risk factors of HIV positivity rate among the aforementioned KPs in Sierra Leone. This study used Time Location Sampling, Respondent Driven Sampling (RDS), and Conventional cluster Sampling designs to generate a representative sample of FSWs, MSM, TG, PI, and PWID. HIV prevalence and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals among each KP were estimated by adjusting for sampling weight using the logit-transformed confidence intervals. To determine correlates of HIV test positivity among KPs, a multivariable modified Poisson regression model that adjusts for RDS survey weights was used and sensitivity analysis was conducted using a multivariable logistic regression model with cluster robust standard errors. The prevalence of HIV among FSWs in the six regional headquarter towns was estimated to be 11.8% (95% CI: 7.9-17.1); MSM was 3.4% [95% CI: 1.9-5.8]; TGs was 4.2% (95% CI: 2.9-6.1); PWIDs was 4.2% (95% CI: 2.7-6.4) and PI was 3.7% (95% CI: 1.4-9.6). The correlates of HIV test positivity among KPs and PIs include HIV-related knowledge, marital status, district, income, age and sex of KP, level of education, alcohol intake, injecting drugs, and use of lubricants. HIV prevalence is relatively high among FSWs, MSMs, PWID, and TGs as compared to the previous estimate of the general population. There is a need to scale up and strengthen evidence-based HIV prevention interventions such Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and needle and syringe exchange programmes targeting KPs, including prison inmates. Government must scale up both non-clinical and clinical routine HIV and STI testing and counseling services at the correctional center and drop-in centers for KPs screening/testing, and ensure that services are responsive to the needs of KP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duah Dwomoh
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Issata Wurie
- Health and Education Quality Systems Strengthening, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Yvonne Harding
- Health and Education Quality Systems Strengthening, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Kojo Mensah Sedzro
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Health Sciences, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Kandeh
- Health and Education Quality Systems Strengthening, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Henry Tagoe
- John Snow Resarch & Training Institute Inc, Accra, Ghana
| | - Christabel Addo
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Health Sciences, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Daniel Kojo Arhinful
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Health Sciences, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Abdul Rahman Cherinoh Sessay
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - William Kwabena Ampofo
- Department of Virology, College of Health Sciences, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Aghaei AM, Gholami J, Sangchooli A, Rostam-Abadi Y, Olamazadeh S, Ardeshir M, Baheshmat S, Shadloo B, Taj M, Saeed K, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Prevalence of injecting drug use and HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C in people who inject drugs in the Eastern Mediterranean region: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Glob Health 2023; 11:e1225-e1237. [PMID: 37474230 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00267-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considerable disease burden is attributed to injecting drug use (IDU). This regional systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of IDU and the characteristics of people who inject drugs in the 22 countries of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the prevalence of IDU, estimation of the population size of people who inject drugs, the characteristics of people who inject drugs, commonly injected drugs, the prevalence of HIV, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus in people who inject drugs, and opioid agonist treatment and needle and syringe programme services. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and the Index Medicus for the Eastern Mediterranean Region for documents published between Jan 1, 2010, and April 17, 2022, with no language restrictions. We also searched government reports, civil society information, and UN websites and databases for grey literature published between Jan 1, 2010, and April 17, 2022. Documents were eligible if they reported or estimated an indicator of interest, or reported enough data to permit calculation of the indicator. We extracted data from the eligible documents and calculated national and regional estimates. FINDINGS We identified 38 283 documents and included 201 documents in the systematic review. A total of 115 documents were included for the four outcomes for which meta-analyses were performed. The number of people who inject drugs was estimated as 864 597 (95% CI 641 909-1 205 255), amounting to a prevalence of 20·0 per 10 000 adults (95% CI 14·9-27·9) in the region. Among people who inject drugs, the prevalence of HIV was estimated as 19·22% (95% CI 12·86-26·36), hepatitis C virus as 44·82% (29·32-61·16), and hepatitis B virus as 2·66% (0·84-7·26). Countries varied greatly regarding the variables of interest and the availability of relevant data. Nine countries provided needle and syringe programme services and seven countries provided opioid agonist treatment services, mostly with very low, low, or unclear coverage. INTERPRETATION The prevalence of IDU in the Eastern Mediterranean region is lower than the global mean, particularly among women. The HIV infection rate is higher than the global mean, and the hepatitis C virus infection rate is lower than the global mean. Harm-reduction services are underdeveloped. Data collection on IDU and provision of services need improvement in the region. FUNDING World Health Organization. TRANSLATIONS For the Arabic, Farsi and French translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardavan Mohammad Aghaei
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arshiya Sangchooli
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sogol Olamazadeh
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Ardeshir
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahab Baheshmat
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Taj
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Unit, Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Khalid Saeed
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Unit, Department of Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addictions Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Mumtaz GR. People who inject drugs in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Lancet Glob Health 2023; 11:e1146-e1147. [PMID: 37474212 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00318-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ghina R Mumtaz
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Nguyen TT, Ha L, Nguyen LH, Vu LG, Do HT, Boyer L, Fond G, Auquier P, Latkin CA, Ho CSH, Ho RCM. A global bibliometric analysis of intimate partner violence in the field of HIV/AIDS: implications for interventions and research development. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1105018. [PMID: 37397707 PMCID: PMC10310964 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1105018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the research landscape of intimate partner violence (IPV)-harm-induced behavior in an intimate relationship and HIV/AIDS to determine lessons learnt and gaps that may be filled by future research. Publications related to IPV, and HIV/AIDS published from 1997 to 2019 were collected from Web of Science (WoS). STATA and VOSviewer software tools were used for bibliometric analysis. Content analysis, common topics, and the map of co-occurrence terms were structured by Latent Dirichlet allocation and VOSviewer software tool. 941 studies were included. Factors associated with domestic violence and interventions to reduce IPV were the two most common themes. Meanwhile, mental health illness among pregnant women affected by HIV and IPV, and HIV-risk among youth suffering from IPV have not received adequate attention. We suggest that more research focusing on adolescents and pregnant women affected by HIV and IPV. In addition, the development of collaborative networks between developed and developing countries should also be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tham Thi Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Lilian Ha
- Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Long Hoang Nguyen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Linh Gia Vu
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Hoa Thi Do
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Laurent Boyer
- CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Guillaume Fond
- CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Auquier
- CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Cyrus S. H. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger C. M. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Athamneh RY, Abudalo R, Sallam M, Alqudah A, Alquran H, Amawi KF, Abu-Harirah HA. Sub-genotypes of hepatitis C virus in the Middle East and North Africa: Patterns of distribution and temporal changes. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 109:105412. [PMID: 36791585 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2023.105412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a considerable public health concern in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The objectives of this study were to analyze the HCV genotype (GT) and sub-genotype (SGT) distribution in the MENA region and to assess the temporal change in the number of sequences within the MENA region. All HCV molecular sequences collected in the MENA region had been retrieved from GenBank as of 1 August 2022. The number of HCV sequences retrieved was 6740 representing sequences from a total of 17 MENA countries with a majority from Iran (n = 1969, 29.2%), Egypt (n = 1591, 23.6%), Tunisia (n = 1305, 19.4%) and Saudi Arabia (n = 1085, 16.1%). The determination of GT/SGT was based on the NCBI genotyping and Blast tool. Genotype 1 (GT1) dominated infections in the MENA (n = 2777, 41.2%), followed by GT4 (n = 2566, 39.0%). Additionally, SGT4a (1515/6393, 23.7%) was the most common SGT in the MENA, and SGT4a was dominant in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, followed by SGT1b (n = 1308, 20.5%), which was dominant in Morocco and Tunisia, while SGT1a (n = 1275, 19.9%) was common in Iran, Iraq and Palestine. Furthermore, significant temporal increase in the number of HCV MENA sequences was observed. On the SGT level, specific patterns of HCV genetic diversity were seen in the MENA region, with the most common SGT being 4a, in addition to increasing the availability of HCV sequences in the MENA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabaa Y Athamneh
- Department of Medical Laboratories Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan.
| | - Rawan Abudalo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan; Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Abdelrahim Alqudah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Hasan Alquran
- Department of Medical Laboratories Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Kawther Faisal Amawi
- Department of Medical Laboratories Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Hashem A Abu-Harirah
- Department of Medical Laboratories Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Harfouche M, Alareeki A, Osman AMM, Alaama AS, Hermez JG, Abu-Raddad LJ. Epidemiology of herpes simplex virus type 2 in the Middle East and North Africa: Systematic review, meta-analyses, and meta-regressions. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28603. [PMID: 36815489 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28603] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is a prevalent, sexually transmitted infection with poorly characterized prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This study characterized HSV-2 epidemiology in MENA. METHODS The systematic review was guided by the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook and findings were reported following PRISMA guidelines. Random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed to estimate pooled mean outcome measures and to assess predictors of HSV-2 antibody prevalence (seroprevalence), trends in seroprevalence, and between-study heterogeneity. FINDINGS 61 overall (133 stratified) HSV-2 seroprevalence measures and two overall (4 stratified) proportion measures of HSV-2 detection in laboratory-confirmed genital herpes were extracted from 37 relevant publications. Pooled mean seroprevalence was 5.1% (95% CI: 3.6-6.8%) among general populations, 13.3% (95% CI: 8.6-18.7%) among intermediate-risk populations, 20.6% (95% CI: 5.3-42.3%) among female sex workers, and 18.3% (95% CI: 3.9-39.4%) among male sex workers. Compared to Fertile Crescent countries, seroprevalence was 3.39-fold (95% CI: 1.86-6.20) and 3.90-fold (95% CI: 1.78-8.57) higher in Maghreb and Horn of Africa countries, respectively. Compared to studies published before 2010, seroprevalence was 1.73-fold (95% CI: 1.00-2.99) higher in studies published after 2015. Pooled mean proportion of HSV-2 detection in genital herpes was 73.8% (95% CI: 42.2-95.9%). CONCLUSION MENA has a lower HSV-2 seroprevalence than other world regions. Yet, 1 in 20 adults is chronically infected, despite conservative prevailing sexual norms. Seroprevalence may also be increasing, unlike other world regions. Findings support the need for expansion of surveillance and monitoring of HSV-2 infection in MENA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manale Harfouche
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.,World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asalah Alareeki
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.,World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aisha M M Osman
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.,World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed S Alaama
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/STIs Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Joumana G Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/STIs Unit, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.,World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, USA.,Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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9
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Karbasi A, Fordjuoh J, Abbas M, Iloegbu C, Patena J, Adenikinju D, Vieira D, Gyamfi J, Peprah E. An Evolving HIV Epidemic in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3844. [PMID: 36900856 PMCID: PMC10001308 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is severely understudied despite the region's increase in new HIV infections since 2010. A key population that is particularly affected, due to the lack of adequate knowledge and proper interventional implementation, includes people who inject drugs (PWID). Furthermore, the paucity of HIV data (prevalence and trends) worsens an already critical situation in this region. A scoping review was conducted to address the scarcity of information and to synthesize the available data on HIV prevalence rates within the key population of PWID throughout the MENA region. Information was sourced from major public health databases and world health reports. Of the 1864 articles screened, 40 studies discussed the various factors contributing to the under-reporting of HIV data in the MENA region among PWID. High and overlapping risk behaviors were cited as the most prevalent reason why HIV trends were incomprehensible and hard to characterize among PWID, followed by lack of service utilization, lack of intervention-based programs, cultural norms, lack of advanced HIV surveillance systems, and protracted humanitarian emergencies. Overall, the lack of reported information limits any adequate response to the growing and unknown HIV trends throughout the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvin Karbasi
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Judy Fordjuoh
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Mentalla Abbas
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Chukwuemeka Iloegbu
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - John Patena
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Deborah Adenikinju
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Dorice Vieira
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
- NYU Health Sciences Library, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, 577 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Joyce Gyamfi
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Emmanuel Peprah
- Global Health Program, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, ISEE Lab, NYU School of Global Public Health, 708 Broadway, 4th FL, New York, NY 10003, USA
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10
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Characterizing trends and associations for hepatitis C virus antibody prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa: meta-regression analyses. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20637. [PMID: 36450850 PMCID: PMC9712517 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25086-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study characterized population-level trends and associations with hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody (Ab) prevalence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Data source was the standardized and systematically gathered MENA HCV Epidemiology Synthesis Project Database. Random-effects univariable and multivariable meta-regressions were conducted. 2,621 HCV Ab prevalence measures on 49,824,108 individuals were analyzed. In the analysis including all populations, 71% of the variation in prevalence was explained, mostly by at-risk population type. Compared to the general population, prevalence was 23-fold higher among people who inject drugs, and 14-fold higher among high-risk clinical populations. In the analysis including only the general population, 67% of the variation in prevalence was explained, mostly by country/subregion. Compared to Afghanistan, prevalence was highest in Egypt and Pakistan. Prevalence in the general population was declining at a rate of 4% per year, but outside the general population, the decline was at only 1% per year. HCV Ab prevalence in MENA is declining rapidly, but this decline is largely occurring in the general population following introduction of blood and injection safety measures. The decline in populations at higher risk of exposure is slow and below the level needed to achieve HCV elimination by 2030.
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11
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Pachuau LN, Tannous C, Dhami MV, Agho KE. HIV among people who inject drugs in India: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1529. [PMID: 35948967 PMCID: PMC9367073 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13922-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the epidemiology of HIV infection among HIV positive people who inject drugs (PWID) in India. Injecting drug use has emerged as an important route of HIV transmission in India. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the risk behaviours associated with HIV infection among HIV positive PWID and assess the data reported. Methods A systematic search of six electronic databases, Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase and Ovid Medline was conducted. These databases were searched for published studies on injecting risk behaviours, sexual risk behaviours and socio-demographic factors associated with HIV infection among HIV positive PWID in India. Results A total of 15 studies were included in the review of which 3 studies evaluated HIV/HCV coinfection among HIV positive PWID. Older age, low educational level and employment status were significantly associated with HIV infection. Sharing of syringe and needle, frequency of injection, early initiation of injecting practice, inconsistent condom use and having multiple sexual partners were all commonly associated with HIV infection among HIV positive PWID. Conclusion Our study identified significant injecting and sexual risk behaviours among HIV positive PWID in India. There is an increasing HIV transmission among PWID in different states, more so in the northeastern states and in metropolitan cities in India. More studies need to be conducted in other regions of the country to understand the true burden of the disease. The lack of sufficient data among HIV positive female PWID does not preclude the possibility of a hidden epidemic among female PWID. The need of the hour is for the prevention of further transmission by this high-risk group through the provision of comprehensive programs, surveillance and robust continuation of harm reduction services. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-13922-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Ngaihbanglovi Pachuau
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Locked Bag 1797, NSW, DC1797, Penrith, Australia.
| | - Caterina Tannous
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Locked Bag 1797, NSW, DC1797, Penrith, Australia
| | - Mansi Vijaybhai Dhami
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Penrith, NSW, 2571, Australia.,Belmont Hospital, 16 Croudace Bay Road, Belmont, NSW, 2280, Australia
| | - Kingsley Emwinyore Agho
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Locked Bag 1797, NSW, DC1797, Penrith, Australia.,Translational Health Research Institute (THRI), Western Sydney University, Campbelltown Campus, Penrith, NSW, 2571, Australia.,African Vision Research Institute (AVRI), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus, Durban, 3629, South Africa
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12
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Armoon B, Griffiths MD, Bayani A, Mohammadi R, Ahounbar E. Prevalence and associates of non-fatal overdose among people who inject drugs in Saveh, Iran. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:42. [PMID: 35927753 PMCID: PMC9351099 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00325-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background As a public health issue, non-fatal overdose (NFOD) is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs (PWID). This can lead to an elevated risk of future overdose, causing various harms including possible death. It is essential to improve knowledge concerning this problem and its associated risk factors to inform overdose prevention and assistance programs. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of NFOD and associated risk factors among PWID in Saveh, Iran. Methods In the present cross-sectional study, 272 PWID living in Saveh, Iran were interviewed face-to-face using a structured survey. Data concerning socio-demographics, substance use, risky behaviors, and services utilization data were collected. The outcome variable (i.e., NFOD) was assessed by answering “Yes” to the question: “In the past three months, have you ever overdosed (at least once) by accident?” Results The prevalence of NFOD among PWID in the past three months was 54%. The characteristics and behaviors that were associated with an increased risk of experiencing NFOD in the past three months were being of older age (AOR = 5.2, p < 0.05), drug use initiation under the age of 22 years (AOR = 7.8, p < 0.05), being an alcohol user (AOR = 3.0, p < 0.05), and being a simultaneous multiple drug user (AOR = 5.8, p < 0.05). Also, more recent initiates to injecting (< 2 years) had an increased risk of experiencing a non-fatal overdose in the past three months. Findings also indicated that those who (i) attended a needle and syringe program (AOR: 0.3, p < 0.05), (ii) were visited by a general practitioner (AOR: 0.03, p < 0.05), and (iii) received a psychosocial intervention (AOR: 0.1, p < 0.05) were 0.3, 0.03 and 0.1 times less likely to report non-fatal overdosing than other participants, respectively. Conclusions The results indicate that intervention and prevention initiatives seeking to reduce NFOD among PWID should not only be focused on the primary drug used but also the use of alcohol and polysubstance use. Specific and tailored psychological interventions combined with pharmacotherapy may be highly beneficial for PWID who experience more severe types of substance use, including alcohol use disorders and/or polysubstance abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran. .,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti Blvd, Shahid Fahmideh Blvd, 4th floor, Saveh, Markazi Province, Iran.
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Azadeh Bayani
- Student Research Committee, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasool Mohammadi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ahounbar
- Orygen, The National Center of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Center for Youth Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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13
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Mumtaz GR, Chemaitelly H, AlMukdad S, Osman A, Fahme S, Rizk NA, El Feki S, Abu-Raddad LJ. Status of the HIV epidemic in key populations in the Middle East and north Africa: knowns and unknowns. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e506-e516. [PMID: 35777412 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00093-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The Middle East and north Africa is one of only two world regions where HIV incidence is on the rise, with most infections occurring among key populations: people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and female sex workers. In this Review, we show a trend of increasing HIV prevalence among the three key populations in the Middle East and north Africa. Although the epidemic continues at a low level in some countries or localities within a country, there is evidence for concentrated epidemics, with sustained transmission at considerable HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs and men who have sex with men in over half of countries in the region with data, and among female sex workers in several countries. Most epidemics emerged around 2003 or thereafter. The status of the epidemic among key populations remains unknown in several countries due to persistent data gaps. The HIV response in Middle East and north Africa remains far below global targets for prevention, testing, and treatment. It is hindered by underfunding, poor surveillance, and stigma, all of which are compounded by widespread conflict and humanitarian crises, and most recently, the advent of COVID-19. Investment is needed to put the region on track towards the target of eliminating HIV/AIDS as a global health threat by 2030. Reaching this target will not be possible without tailoring the response to the needs of key populations, while addressing, to the extent possible, the complex structural and operational barriers to success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghina R Mumtaz
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon; Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sawsan AlMukdad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aisha Osman
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sasha Fahme
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nesrine A Rizk
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Shereen El Feki
- Regional Support Team for the Middle East and North Africa, The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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14
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Chemaitelly H, Ayoub HH, Omori R, El Feki S, Hermez JG, Weiss HA, Abu-Raddad LJ. HIV incidence and impact of interventions among female sex workers and their clients in the Middle East and north Africa: a modelling study. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e496-e505. [PMID: 35777411 PMCID: PMC9253890 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(22)00100-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of HIV infection among female sex workers and their clients in the Middle East and north Africa is not well known. We aimed to assess HIV incidence, the contribution of heterosexual sex work networks to these numbers, and the effect of interventions by use of mathematical modelling. METHODS In this modelling study, we developed a novel, individual-based model to simulate HIV epidemic dynamics in heterosexual sex work networks. We applied this model to 12 countries in the Middle East and north Africa that had sufficient data to estimate incidence in 2020 and the impact of interventions by 2030 (Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Iran, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen). Model-input parameters were provided through a systematic review of HIV prevalence, sexual and injecting behaviours, and risk group size estimates of female sex workers and clients. Model output was number of incident HIV infections under different modelling scenarios for each country. Summary statistics were generated on these model output scenarios. FINDINGS Based on the output of our model, we estimated a total of 14 604 (95% uncertainty interval [UI] CI 7929-31 819) new HIV infections in the 12 countries in 2020 among female sex workers, clients, and spouses, which constituted 28·1% of 51 995 total new cases in all adults in these 12 countries combined. Model-estimated number of new infections in 2020 in the 12 countries combined was 3471 (95% UI 1295-10 308) in female sex workers, 6416 (3144-14 223) in clients, and 4717 (3490-7288) in client spouses. Contribution of incidence in heterosexual sex work networks to total incidence varied widely, ranging from 3·3% in Pakistan to 71·8% in South Sudan and 72·7% in Djibouti. Incidence in heterosexual sex work networks was distributed roughly equally among female sex workers, clients, and client spouses. Estimated incidence rates among female sex workers per 1000 person-years ranged from 0·4 (95% UI 0·0-7·1) in Yemen to 34·3 (17·2-59·6) in South Sudan. In countries where HIV acquisition through injecting drug use creates substantial exposure for female sex workers who inject drugs, estimated incidence rates per 1000 person-years ranged from 5·1 (95% UI 0·0-35·1) in Iran to 45·8 (0·0-428·6) in Pakistan. The model output predicted that any of the programmed interventions would substantially reduce incidence. Even when a subpopulation did not benefit directly from an intervention, it benefited indirectly through reduction in onward transmission, and indirect impact was often half as large as the direct impact. INTERPRETATION Substantial HIV incidence occurs in heterosexual sex work networks across the Middle East and north Africa with client spouses being heavily affected, in addition to female sex workers and clients. Rapid scaling-up of comprehensive treatment and prevention services for female sex workers is urgently needed. FUNDING Qatar National Research Fund (a member of Qatar Foundation), the Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Biomathematics Research Core at the Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar University-Marubeni, the UK Medical Research Council, and the UK Department for International Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Houssein H Ayoub
- Mathematics Program, Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ryosuke Omori
- Division of Bioinformatics, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Shereen El Feki
- Regional Support Team for the Middle East and North Africa, The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Joumana G Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Helen A Weiss
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar; World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar; Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA; Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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15
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Mirzazadeh A, Hosseini-Hooshyar S, Shahesmaeili A, Sharafi H, Shafiei M, Zarei J, Mousavian G, Tavakoli F, Ghalekhani N, Shokoohi M, Khezri M, Mehmandoost S, Shojaei MR, Karamouzian M, Briceno A, Morris MD, Alavian SM, Haghdoost AA, Sharifi H, Page KA. An on-site community-based model for hepatitis C screening, diagnosis, and treatment among people who inject drugs in Kerman, Iran: The Rostam study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 102:103580. [PMID: 35074607 PMCID: PMC10478571 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and its complications in many countries, including Iran. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effect of a community-based HCV model of care on HCV testing and treatment initiation among PWID in Kerman, Iran. METHODS This study is part of the Rostam study and is a non-randomized trial evaluating the effect of on-site HCV- antibody rapid testing, venipuncture for HCV RNA testing, and treatment eligibility assessment on HCV testing and treatment initiation among PWID. Recruitment, interviews, and HCV screening, diagnosis, and treatment were all conducted at a community-based drop-in center (DIC) serving PWID clients. RESULTS A total of 171 PWID (median age of 39 years and 89.5% male) were recruited between July 2018 and May 2019. Of 62 individuals who were HCV antibody positive, 47 (75.8%) were HCV RNA positive. Of RNA-positive individuals, 36 (76.6%) returned for treatment eligibility assessment. Of all the 36 participants eligible for treatment, 34 (94.4%) initiated HCV antiviral therapy. A sustained virologic response at 12 weeks post-treatment was 76.5% (26/34) in the intention-to-treat (ITT group) analysis and 100% (23/23) in the per-protocol (PP group) analysis. CONCLUSION Our integrated on-site community-based HCV care model within a DIC setting suggested that HCV care including HCV testing and treatment uptake can be successfully delivered outside of hospitals or specialized clinics; a model which is more likely to reach PWID and can provide significant progress towards HCV elimination among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Samira Hosseini-Hooshyar
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Armita Shahesmaeili
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Shafiei
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Jasem Zarei
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Shojaei
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Alya Briceno
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Meghan D Morris
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Ali-Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Kimberly A Page
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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16
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Khezri M, Shokoohi M, Mirzazadeh A, Tavakoli F, Ghalekhani N, Mousavian G, Mehmandoost S, Kazerooni PA, Haghdoost AA, Karamouzian M, Sharifi H. HIV Prevalence and Related Behaviors Among People Who Inject Drugs in Iran from 2010 to 2020. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2831-2843. [PMID: 35195820 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03627-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Injection drug use has been the leading route of HIV transmission in Iran. We assessed HIV prevalence, risk behaviors, and uptake of prevention services among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran between 2010 and 2020. We also examined the individual and environmental determinants of HIV among PWID. PWID were recruited in major cities across the country in three national bio--behavioral surveillance surveys in 2010, 2014, and 2020. Participants were tested for HIV and interviewed using a behavioral questionnaire. Between 2010 and 2020, the prevalence of HIV (15.1% to 3.5%), receptive needle sharing (25.2% to 3.9%) and unprotected sex (79.4% to 65.2%) decreased. Moreover, uptake of free needle/syringe increased (57.4% to 87.9%), while uptake of free condoms remained relatively stable across the surveys (34.3% to 32.6%). Multivariable analysis for the 2020 survey showed that a history of homelessness, incarceration, and a longer injection career significantly increased the odds of HIV seropositivity. During the past decade, HIV prevalence and drug- and sexual-related risk behaviors decreased among Iranian PWID. However, individual and structural determinants continue to drive HIV among this population. HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment among marginalized PWID with a history of homelessness or incarceration and those who inject drugs for a longer period, should be further prioritized in HIV care planning and resource allocation in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nima Ghalekhani
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ghazal Mousavian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soheil Mehmandoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Stone J, Artenie A, Hickman M, Martin NK, Degenhardt L, Fraser H, Vickerman P. The contribution of unstable housing to HIV and hepatitis C virus transmission among people who inject drugs globally, regionally, and at country level: a modelling study. Lancet Public Health 2022; 7:e136-e145. [PMID: 35012711 PMCID: PMC8848679 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(21)00258-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A considerable proportion of people who inject drugs are unstably housed. Although unstable housing is associated with HIV and HCV infection among people who inject drugs, its contribution to transmission is unknown. We estimated the global and national proportions of incident HIV and HCV infections among people who inject drugs attributed to housing instability from 2020 to 2029. METHODS In this modelling study, we developed country-level models of unstable housing and HIV and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs in 58 countries globally, calibrated to country-specific data on the prevalences of HIV and HCV and unstable housing. Based on a recently published systematic review, unstably housed people who inject drugs were assumed to have a 39% (95% CI 6-84) increased risk of HIV transmission and a 64% (95% CI 43-89%) increased risk of HCV transmission. We used pooled country-level estimates from systematic reviews on HCV and HIV prevalence in people who inject drugs. Our models estimated the transmission population attributable fraction (tPAF) of unstable housing to HIV and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs, defined as the percentage of infections prevented from 2020 to 2029 if the additional risk due to unstable housing was removed. FINDINGS Our models were produced for 58 countries with sufficient data (accounting for >66% of the global people who inject drugs population). Globally, we project unstable housing contributes 7·9% (95% credibility interval [CrI] 2·3-15·7) of new HIV infections and 11·2% (7·7-15·5) of new HCV infections among people who inject drugs from 2020 to 2029. Country-level tPAFs were strongly associated with the prevalence of unstable housing. tPAFs were greater in high-income countries (HIV 17·2% [95% CrI 5·1-30·0]; HCV 19·4% [95% CrI 13·8-26·0]) than in low-income or middle-income countries (HIV 6·6% [95% CrI 1·8-13·1]; HCV 8·3% [95% CrI 5·5-11·7]). tPAFs for HIV and HCV were highest in Afghanistan, Czech Republic, India, USA, England, and Wales where unstable housing contributed more than 20% of new HIV and HCV infections. INTERPRETATION Unstable housing is an important modifiable risk factor for HIV and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs in many countries. The study emphasises the importance of implementing initiatives to mitigate these risks and reduce housing instability. FUNDING National Institute for Health Research and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and National Institute for Drug Abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Adelina Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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18
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Mugisa B, Sabry A, Hutin Y, Hermez J. HIV epidemiology in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region: a multicountry programme review. Lancet HIV 2022; 9:e112-e119. [PMID: 35120632 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(21)00320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, HIV incidence, and mortality has decreased since 2010; however, in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region, trends continue to increase. We reviewed the regional progress to understand determinants of this situation and inform strategies to accelerate the response. METHODS We conducted a multicountry programme review of 22 countries in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region from Jan 1, 2010 to Dec 31, 2020. We extracted data from WHO's global AIDS monitoring system, UNAIDS estimates, and country reports regarding incident cases, policy uptake, and antiretrovirals used. We analysed data to describe incidence, testing practices, treatment coverage, and mortality to identify bottlenecks leading to persisting incidence and mortality. FINDINGS Due to COVID-19 disruptions, the volume of HIV testing in 2020 halved to 3·0 million tests compared with 2019 with 8017 people living with HIV identified (0·27% positivity yield). In comparison with a 0·18% positivity yield from the 6·5 million tests in 2019. HIV tests were done in migrants (59·6%), groups at low risk (38·9%), and key populations (1·5%). Diagnoses with advanced disease increased from 27·3% in 2017 to 37·0% in 2019. In 2019, among 52 318 people on treatment, only 2888 (6%) received optimised regimens as per WHO recommendations. The number of people on treatment increased from 19 000 in 2010 with a coverage of 8% to 110 000 in 2020 with a coverage of 25%. Late diagnoses and suboptimal regimens could explain the increase in mortality from 9600 in 2010 to 17 000 in 2020. INTERPRETATION In the Eastern Mediterranean region, inefficient testing and suboptimal treatment lead to underdiagnosis, persisting transmission, late treatment, and rising mortality. The HIV epidemic is growing faster than the response. A change in thinking is needed to test groups at high risk, transition to optimised treatment, and deliver patient-centred services that maximise retention. FUNDING World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Mugisa
- Department of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Sabry
- Department of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yvan Hutin
- Department of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Joumana Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control, World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
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HIV Knowledge and Stigmatizing Attitude towards People Living with HIV/AIDS among Medical Students in Jordan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020745. [PMID: 35055566 PMCID: PMC8775845 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The stigmatizing attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) can be a major barrier to effective patient care. As future physicians, medical students represent a core group that should be targeted with focused knowledge and adequate training to provide patient care without prejudice. The aim of the current study was to examine HIV/AIDS knowledge, and the stigmatizing attitude towards PLWHA, among medical students in Jordan. The current study was based on a self-administered online questionnaire, which was distributed during March–May 2021, involving students at the six medical schools in Jordan, with items assessing demographics, HIV/AIDS knowledge, and HIV/AIDS stigmatizing attitude, which was evaluated using the validated HIV-stigma scale. The total number of respondents was 1362, with predominance of females (n = 780, 57.3%). Lack of HIV/AIDS knowledge among the study participants was notable for the following items: HIV transmission through breastfeeding (40.8% correct responses), HIV is not transmitted through saliva (42.6% correct responses), and vertical transmission of HIV can be prevented (48.8% correct responses). Approximately two-thirds of the respondents displayed a positive attitude towards PLWHA. For six out of the 14 HIV/AIDS knowledge items, lack of knowledge was significantly correlated with a more negative attitude towards PLWHA. Multinomial regression analysis showed that a significantly more negative attitude towards PLWHA was found among the pre-clinical students compared to the clinical students (odds ratio (OR): 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.43–0.97, p = 0.036); and that affiliation to medical schools that were founded before 2000 was associated with a more positive attitude towards PLWHA compared to affiliation to recently founded medical schools in the country (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.42–2.42, p < 0.001). About one-third of medical students who participated in the study displayed a negative attitude towards PLWHA. Defects in HIV/AIDS knowledge were detected for aspects involving HIV transmission and prevention, and such defects were correlated with a more negative attitude towards PLWHA. It is recommended to revise the current medical training curricula, and to tailor improvements in the overall HIV/AIDS knowledge, which can be reflected in a more positive attitude towards PLWHA, particularly for the recently established medical schools in the country.
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20
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Kteily-Hawa R, Hawa AC, Gogolishvili D, Al Akel M, Andruszkiewicz N, Vijayanathan H, Loutfy M. Understanding the epidemiological HIV risk factors and underlying risk context for youth residing in or originating from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region: A scoping review of the literature. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260935. [PMID: 34995320 PMCID: PMC8741013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV is the second leading cause of death among young people globally, and adolescents are the only group where HIV mortality is not declining. Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is one of few regions seeing rapid increase of HIV infections (31.0%) since 2001. MENA youth are at particular risk of HIV due to dearth of research and challenges in accessing services. Objective The purpose of this scoping review is to establish the epidemiological HIV risk factors and underlying risk context for youth residing in or originating from the MENA region. Methods Online database searches were conducted using combination of search terms. Screening 5,853 citations, published between 1990–2019 with age groups 16 to 29, resulted in 57 studies included across 18 MENA countries. Results ‘Key populations’ engage in risky behaviors, including: overlapping risky behaviors among youth who inject drugs (PWID); lack of access to HIV testing, condomless sex, and multiple sex partners among young men who have sex with men (MSM); and high and overlapping risk behaviors among young sex workers. Challenges facing other youth groups and bridging populations include: peer pressure, inhibition about discussing sexual health, lack of credible sex education sources, low condom use, and lack of access to HIV protection/prevention services, especially testing. Conclusion Poor surveillance coupled with scarcity of rigorous studies limit what is known about epidemiology of HIV among youth in MENA. Homophobia, stigma around PWID, and illegal status of sex work promote non-disclosure of risk behaviors among youth and curtail serving this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roula Kteily-Hawa
- Family Studies and Human Development Department, School of Behavioural and Social Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario HIV Treatment Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - Aceel Christina Hawa
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Al Akel
- Alliance for South Asian AIDS Prevention, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Mona Loutfy
- Women’s College Research Institute, Women’s College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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21
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Hariri S, Davari S, Malekzadeh Z, Mohammadi Z, Masoudi S, Gandomkar A, Amini-Kafiabad S, Maghsoudloo M, Merat S, Poustchi H, Malekzadeh F. Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Infections and Associated Risk Factors in Pars Cohort Study, Southern Iran. Middle East J Dig Dis 2021; 13:95-102. [PMID: 34712446 PMCID: PMC8531928 DOI: 10.34172/mejdd.2021.211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) infections rank among the most frequent infectious diseases with a rising worldwide burden. However, their epidemiology and risk factors are understudied in many regions, including Iran. METHODS This study was conducted as part of the Pars Cohort Study (PCS) in Valashahr district, Fars province (2012-2014). Participants received venipuncture for HBsAg and HCV antibody, followed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing. All infected people and their comparison groups completed a risk assessment questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, 9,269 people participated in the study; the majority were women and of Fars ethnicity. Prevalence of HBsAg and HCV antibody was 2.3% (n = 215) and 0.3% (n = 26), from whom 23% (n = 47) and 13% (n = 3) had indications for treatment, respectively. During follow-up, among HBsAg-positive individuals who were not on treatment, 62% tested negative for HBsAg, and in 2% HBV DNA had risen to treatment levels. Risk factors for HBV infection were illiteracy [OR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.1, 10.3], and Turk ethnicity compared to Fars [OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.1, 2.3]. History of blood transfusion [OR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.1, 3.5] and history of drug use [OR = 2.85, 95% CI = 1.1, 7.4] were associated with HCV infection, after adjustment. CONCLUSION Further epidemiological studies are needed to identify at-risk populations in different regions. Preventive interventions, including educational programs and transfusion safety strategies, are crucial for reducing the hepatitis burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanam Hariri
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sabereh Davari
- MPH Department, Shiraz Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Malekzadeh
- Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Non-communicable Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Mohammadi
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Masoudi
- Digestive Oncology Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdullah Gandomkar
- Non-communicable Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Amini-Kafiabad
- Iran Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahtab Maghsoudloo
- Iran Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahin Merat
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Poustchi
- Liver and Pancreatobiliary Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Malekzadeh
- Digestive Diseases Research Center, Digestive Diseases Research Institute, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Non-communicable Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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22
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Anwar S, El Kharrat E, Bakhoum A, El-Sadr WM, Harris TG. Association of sociodemographic factors with needle sharing and number of sex partners among people who inject drugs in Egypt. Glob Public Health 2021; 17:1689-1698. [PMID: 34283695 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2021.1950798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
People who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk for HIV. We conducted an evaluation of socio-demographic factors associated with injecting and sexual behaviour among PWID who had two or more visits at a drug outreach clinic in Cairo, Egypt from 2013 to 2017. Routinely collected information on socio-demographics and HIV risk behaviours were abstracted from client records. Bivariate analysis and logistic regression were conducted to evaluate associations between socio-demographics and HIV risk factors. All PWID who tested HIV-positive at the initial visit were excluded from analyses. PWID who were married were more likely to share needles or syringes in the last month of their baseline visit [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4-13.1] as were unemployed PWID [aOR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.5-10.3]. Married PWID were less likely to discontinue sharing needles/syringes [aOR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2-0.8] as were those living outside of the Shobra, downtown, and Imbabah districts within Greater Cairo [aOR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.5]. No significant associations were found between socio-demographics and number of sex partners in the six months prior to the initial visit. At follow-up visit, 4.4% tested HIV-positive for an incidence rate of 3.9 per 100 person years. Sociodemographic factors should be considered when designing preventive services for PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakia Anwar
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Wafaa M El-Sadr
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tiffany G Harris
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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23
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Khalsa JH, Mathur P. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Persons Who Inject Drugs in the Middle East and North Africa: Intervention Strategies. Viruses 2021; 13:1363. [PMID: 34372569 PMCID: PMC8310161 DOI: 10.3390/v13071363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C viral infection in persons with or without substance use disorders (SUDs) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, but only a small number receive comprehensive care. Highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications are available at substantially lower costs; however, complete elimination of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) can only be achieved if integrated care strategies target those at highest risk for HCV infection and transmission and improve access to care. Due to the high prevalence of SUD in the MENA region, strategies to eliminate HCV must focus on integrated healthcare across multiple subspecialties, including addiction medicine, psychiatry, infectious diseases, hepatology, and social work. In this invited manuscript, we review the epidemiology of HCV in the MENA region and highlight intervention strategies to attain the WHO's goal of HCV eradication by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jag H. Khalsa
- Medical Consequences of Drug Abuse and Infections Branch, Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Poonam Mathur
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
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24
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Jin H, Restar A, Beyrer C. Overview of the epidemiological conditions of HIV among key populations in Africa. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24 Suppl 3:e25716. [PMID: 34190412 PMCID: PMC8242974 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite extraordinary progress in HIV treatment coverage and expanding access to HIV prevention services and that multiple African countries are on track in their efforts to reach 90-90-90 goals, the epidemic continues to persist, with prevalence and incidence rates too high in some parts of the continent to achieve epidemic control. While data sources are improving, and research studies on key populations in specific contexts have improved, work on understanding the HIV burdens and barriers to services for these populations remains sparse, uneven and absent altogether in multiple settings. More data have become available in the last several years, and data published in 2010 or more recently are reviewed here for each key population. This scoping review assesses the current epidemiology of HIV among key populations in Africa and the social and political environments that contribute to the epidemic, both of which suggest that without significant policy reform, these epidemics will likely continue. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Across Africa, the HIV epidemic is most severe among key populations including women and men who sell or trade sex, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender women who have sex with men and prisoners and detainees. These groups account for the majority of new infections in West and Central Africa, and an estimated 25% of new infections in East and Southern Africa, despite representing relatively small proportions of those populations. The HIV literature in Africa emphasizes that despite significant health needs, key populations experience barriers to accessing services within the healthcare and legal justice systems. Current shortcomings of surveillance systems in enumerating key populations impact the way funding mechanisms and resources are allocated and distributed. Adapting more equitable and epidemiologically sound frameworks will be necessary for current and future HIV programming investments. CONCLUSIONS Through this review, the available literature on HIV epidemiology among key populations in Africa brings to light a number of surveillance, programmatic and research gaps. For many communities, interventions targeting the health and security conditions continue to be minimal. Compelling evidence suggests that sweeping policy and programmatic changes are needed to effectively tackle the persistent HIV epidemic in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Jin
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Arjee Restar
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
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25
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Shayan SJ, Nazari R, Kiwanuka F. Prevalence of HIV and HCV among injecting drug users in three selected WHO-EMRO countries: a meta-analysis. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:59. [PMID: 34044849 PMCID: PMC8161998 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00505-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections are responsible for a significant burden of mortality and morbidity, particularly in developing countries. This study sought to determine the prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis C among injecting drug users in Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. METHODS This review conforms to the Preferred Reporting Guidelines for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science/Knowledge, SID.ir, and MAGIRAN were searched. Studies that were published from 2003 up to 2018 were considered for analysis. Studies were screened for inclusion in duplicate, and also, that data were narratively synthesized. RESULTS We report on data from 79 articles. The total number of participants in studies that assessed the prevalence of HIV among injecting drug users included 68,926 participants, while those from studies that assessed HCV prevalence were 23,016 participants. Overall HIV and HCV prevalence among injecting drug users in the three selected countries were 9.1% (95% CI 6.9-12.0%) and 48.3% (95% CI 43.9-52.7%), respectively. Iran had the highest HIV prevalence of 11.0% among injectable drug users (95% CI 8.4-14.2%), while Afghanistan had the lowest HIV prevalence of 3.1% (95% CI 1.5-6.3%) among three selected countries. In Pakistan, the prevalence of HIV was 8.6% (95% CI 4.8-15.0%). Regarding HCV prevalence, Pakistan had the highest while Afghanistan had the lowest, 54.4% (95% CI 33.5-73.9%) and 37.3% (95% CI 35.2-39.4%), respectively. HCV prevalence in Iran was 47.7% (95% CI 43.4-52.0%). CONCLUSION Injecting drug users form a special cohort of persons at risk of HIV and Hepatitis C infections. The prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis noted from our findings is significantly high. Awareness of the grave risk of spreading HIV and Hepatitis C associated with sharing needles is recommended among this sub-group of drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shah Jahan Shayan
- Department of Fundamental of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Jamal Mina, 3rd District, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | - Rajab Nazari
- Department of Fundamental of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Jamal Mina, 3rd District, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Frank Kiwanuka
- Department of Nursing Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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26
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SeyedAlinaghi S, Taj L, Mazaheri-Tehrani E, Ahsani-Nasab S, Abedinzadeh N, McFarland W, Mohraz M, Mirzazadeh A. HIV in Iran: onset, responses, and future directions. AIDS 2021; 35:529-542. [PMID: 33252485 PMCID: PMC7924262 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Iran, a country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, has been actively involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS over the past three decades. The unique features of the HIV epidemic in Iran are reflected by the modes of transmission and its recent changes to improve management and prevention programs. In this review, we recount the initial onset and subsequent spread of HIV infection in Iran, beginning with the first case diagnosed to the ongoing responses and most recent achievements in controlling this epidemic. Although in the MENA region, Iran is one of the pioneers in implementing pertinent policies including harm reduction services to decrease HIV incidence, drug injection still continues to be the major risk of infection. In line with other nations, the programs in Iran aim at the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets (UNAIDS 90-90-90 global targets to end the AIDS epidemic by 2020: by 2020, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status; 90% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy; and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression) and to eliminate mother-to-child HIV transmission. In this article, we discuss the strengths and shortcomings of the current HIV programs and offer suggestions to provide a better perspective to track and respond to the HIV epidemic. More generally, our account of the national religious and cultural circumstances as well as obstacles to the approaches chosen can provide insights for decision-makers in other countries and institutions with comparable settings and infrastructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Taj
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Mazaheri-Tehrani
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Ahsani-Nasab
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Abedinzadeh
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Willi McFarland
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, USA
| | - Minoo Mohraz
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, USA
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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27
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Chaabna K, Dashzeveg D, Shagdarsuren T, Al-Rifai RH. Prevalence and genotype distribution of hepatitis C virus in Mongolia: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 105:377-388. [PMID: 33601031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection epidemiology in Mongolia. METHOD Publications on HCV antibody (Ab) and RNA prevalence, and/or genotypes/subtypes were systematically reviewed and reported following PRISMA guidelines. Random-effects meta-analyses and age adjustments were conducted to estimate the prevalence of Mongolians exposed to HCV (pooled HCV-Ab prevalence) by time period, sex, and at-risk populations; and to estimate the prevalence of chronically-infected HCV individuals. RESULTS The national pooled HCV-Ab prevalence was 12.3% in 2000-2009 and 11.2% in 2013. Sex-specific pooled prevalence appeared higher among females than males (14.0% versus 6.8%). Age-specific pooled prevalence significantly increased from 3.7% among children (aged 0-10 years) to 34.1% among people aged ≥50 years (p < 0.001). Among the adult general population (low-risk population), the national age-adjusted prevalence was 8.1%. Age-adjusted chronic infection prevalence in adults was 6.0%. Among healthcare workers, pooled prevalence was 18.0%. Among patients with liver diseases, pooled prevalence was 53.7%. Among individuals engaging in risky sexual behaviors, pooled prevalence was 11.1%. The identified circulating genotypes/subtypes were 1b (58.0%), 2a (21.7%), and 1a (20.2%). CONCLUSION The national HCV prevalence in Mongolia appeared to be among the highest worldwide. Higher prevalence in the clinical setting indicated potential ongoing HCV iatrogenic and occupational transmission. Additionally, HCV transmission in community settings should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Chaabna
- Institute for Population Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Delgermaa Dashzeveg
- Global Health Entrepreneurship Department, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan; Head of Public Health Policy Implementation and Coordination, National Centre for Public Health, Ministry of Health, Mongolia
| | - Tserendulam Shagdarsuren
- Head of Public Health Policy Implementation and Coordination, National Centre for Public Health, Ministry of Health, Mongolia; Department of Mongolia and Healthy City Network of Mongolia, Mongolia
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Shakiba E, Ramazani U, Mardani E, Rahimi Z, Nazar ZM, Najafi F, Moradinazar M. Epidemiological features of HIV/AIDS in the Middle East and North Africa from 1990 to 2017. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:257-265. [PMID: 33525959 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420960632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The growing trend of HIV/AIDS is a major concern in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions, as its incidence in the region has increased by 31% in the last decade. The study population in the countries of the MENA region included 21 countries with a population of approximately 400 million. The Global Burden of Disease database was used to calculate the number of HIV/AIDS cases. Modeling for each country is based on the availability and quality of data. The highest incidence rates of HIV/AIDS were in Sudan, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Tunisia, and Iran, respectively, and the highest mortality rates were in Sudan, UAE, Oman, and Morocco, respectively. The incidence, prevalence and mortality rates, as well as the disability adjusted life years (DALYs) rate declined in 2017 compared to 1990. The highest percentage of changes in DALY rates was reported for Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Sudan, respectively, and the lowest for Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. In general, unsafe sex had the highest impact on the DALY index in all countries in the region except Iran and Bahrain. Policymakers should therefore be encouraged to develop harm reduction programs for people living with HIV, and invest globally in reducing HIV prevalence rates in commercial sex workers, people who inject drugs, and men who have sex with men in the region, as well as eliminating mother-to-child HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Shakiba
- Behavioral Disease Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Uosef Ramazani
- Behavioral Disease Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mardani
- Behavioral Disease Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zohre Rahimi
- Behavioral Disease Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zeinab Moradi Nazar
- Behavioral Disease Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Farid Najafi
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mehdi Moradinazar
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Rajabi A, Sharafi H, Alavian SM. Harm reduction program and hepatitis C prevalence in people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran: an updated systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:12. [PMID: 33482831 PMCID: PMC7825164 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00441-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran is high. Since 2005, the Iranian government has implemented a harm reduction program to control HCV. We aimed to describe the prevalence of HCV antibody (Ab) in Iranian PWID before and after the implementation of harm reduction with cumulative meta-analysis. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published on the seroprevalence of HCV among PWID. We systematically reviewed the literature to identify eligible studies up to December 2018 in international and national databases. Pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using Der Simonian and Laird method, taking into account conceptual heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were performed by harm reduction implementation and studies' characteristics to assess the sources of heterogeneity. We used Cochran-Armitage test for the linear trend of the prevalence of HCV Ab among PWID. RESULTS We reviewed 5966 papers and reports and extracted data from 62 eligible records. The pooled HCV Ab prevalence among PWID in Iran was 46.5% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 41.1-52.0%). Overall, the Cochran-Armitage test for trend indicated a significant decreasing trend of HCV Ab prevalence (P = 0.04). The cumulative meta-analysis showed a slight decline in the prevalence of HCV Ab between the years 2005 and 2018. CONCLUSIONS The HCV Ab prevalence among PWID in Iran is high, with a considerable geographical variation. The prevalence of HCV Ab among PWID in Iran slightly decreased after 2005 which could be, at least to some extent, related to the implementation of extensive harm reduction programs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (BRCGL), Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Environmental Health Research Center, Faculty of Health, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (BRCGL), Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Middle East Liver Diseases (MELD) Center, Tehran, Iran.
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30
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Radfar SR, Nematollahi P, Tayeri K, Dehghan H, Janani M, Higgs P, Mohsenifar S, Noroozi A. Prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection and HIV among people who inject drugs in Iran. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 40:572-579. [PMID: 33345378 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Iran has an human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) epidemic that is concentrated among people who inject drugs (PWID), who have higher risks of progression from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) to active disease. The aim of this study is to measure prevalence of LTBI, HIV infection and any risk behaviors among PWID in Iran. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted from August to December 2013 in six cities across Iran. A total of 420 PWID were recruited from drop-in centres using convenience sampling. Trained interviewers collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, drug use history and drug-related risk behaviors across the study sites. A tuberculin skin test (TST) was performed, and HIV infection was assessed by a rapid test. Multivariable modified Poisson regression and logistic regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS Prevalence of positive TST and HIV positivity was 35.7% and 8.6%, respectively. The prevalence of LTBI and HIV was significantly different across the cities of this study. Positive TST was independently associated with older age (APR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01, 1.05) and being HIV positive (APR 1.89, 95% CI 1.45, 2.47). HIV infection was associated with lifetime history of sharing syringes (AOR 3.28, 95% CI 1.44, 10.71) and lifetime number of imprisonment (AOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.14). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of LTBI infections among PWID is high and independently associated with HIV infection. Given that there are currently no TB services available within drop-in centres, programs which integrate TB case finding, TB preventive therapy, referral and care services for PWID are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Ramin Radfar
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Pardis Nematollahi
- Department of Pathology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Katayoun Tayeri
- Iranian Research Center of HIV and AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Dehghan
- Consultation Center for Secondary Researches, Data Mining, and Knowledge Transfer in Health and Medical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Majid Janani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Higgs
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia.,Burnet Institute, Behaviours and Health Risks, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Arias Garcia S, Chen J, Calleja JG, Sabin K, Ogbuanu C, Lowrance D, Zhao J. Availability and Quality of Surveillance and Survey Data on HIV Prevalence Among Sex Workers, Men Who Have Sex With Men, People Who Inject Drugs, and Transgender Women in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Review of Available Data (2001-2017). JMIR Public Health Surveill 2020; 6:e21688. [PMID: 33200996 PMCID: PMC7708087 DOI: 10.2196/21688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In 2019, 62% of new HIV infections occurred among key populations (KPs) and their sexual partners. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends implementation of bio-behavioral surveys every 2-3 years to obtain HIV prevalence data for all KPs. However, the collection of these data is often less frequent and geographically limited. Objective This study intended to assess the availability and quality of HIV prevalence data among sex workers (SWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs, and transgender women (transwomen) in low- and middle-income countries. Methods Data were obtained from survey reports, national reports, journal articles, and other grey literature available to the Global Fund, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, and WHO or from other open sources. Elements reviewed included names of subnational units, HIV prevalence, sampling method, and size. Based on geographical coverage, availability of trends over time, and recency of estimates, data were categorized by country and grouped as follows: nationally adequate, locally adequate but nationally inadequate, no recent data, no trends available, and no data. Results Among the 123 countries assessed, 91.9% (113/123) presented at least 1 HIV prevalence data point for any KP; 78.0% (96/123) presented data for at least 2 groups; and 51.2% (63/123), for at least 3 groups. Data on all 4 groups were available for only 14.6% (18/123) of the countries. HIV prevalence data for SWs, MSM, people who inject drugs, and transwomen were available in 86.2% (106/123), 80.5% (99/123), 45.5% (56/123), and 23.6% (29/123) of the countries, respectively. Only 10.6% (13/123) of the countries presented nationally adequate data for any KP between 2001 and 2017; 6 for SWs; 2 for MSM; and 5 for people who inject drugs. Moreover, 26.8% (33/123) of the countries were categorized as locally adequate but nationally inadequate, mostly for SWs and MSM. No trend data on SWs and MSM were available for 38.2% (47/123) and 43.9% (54/123) of the countries, respectively, while no data on people who inject drugs and transwomen were available for 76.4% (94/123) and 54.5% (67/123) of the countries, respectively. An increase in the number of data points was observed for MSM and transwomen. Overall increases were noted in the number and proportions of data points, especially for MSM, people who inject drugs, and transwomen, with sample sizes exceeding 100. Conclusions Despite general improvements in health data availability and quality, the availability of HIV prevalence data among the most vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries remains insufficient. Data collection should be expanded to include behavioral, clinical, and epidemiologic data through context-specific differentiated survey approaches while emphasizing data use for program improvements. Ending the HIV epidemic by 2030 is possible only if the epidemic is controlled among KPs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jia Chen
- School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | | | - Keith Sabin
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chinelo Ogbuanu
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Jinkou Zhao
- The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland.,Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
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Wong K, Nguyen J, Blair L, Banjanin M, Grewal B, Bowman S, Boyd H, Gerstner G, Cho HJ, Panfilov D, Tam CK, Aguilar D, Venketaraman V. Pathogenesis of Human Immunodeficiency Virus- Mycobacterium tuberculosis Co-Infection. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3575. [PMID: 33172001 PMCID: PMC7694603 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Given that infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is the leading cause of death amongst individuals living with HIV, understanding the complex mechanisms by which Mtb exacerbates HIV infection may lead to improved treatment options or adjuvant therapies. While it is well-understood how HIV compromises the immune system and leaves the host vulnerable to opportunistic infections such as Mtb, less is known about the interplay of disease once active Mtb is established. This review explores how glutathione (GSH) depletion, T cell exhaustion, granuloma formation, and TNF-α upregulation, as a result of Mtb infection, leads to an increase in HIV disease severity. This review also examines the difficulties of treating coinfected patients and suggests further research on the clinical use of GSH supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Wong
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - James Nguyen
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Lillie Blair
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Marina Banjanin
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Bunraj Grewal
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Shane Bowman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Hailey Boyd
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Grant Gerstner
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Hyun Jun Cho
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - David Panfilov
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Cho Ki Tam
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Delaney Aguilar
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
| | - Vishwanath Venketaraman
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-NorthWest, Western University of Health Sciences, Lebanon, OR 97355, USA; (K.W.); (J.N.); (L.B.); (M.B.); (B.G.); (S.B.); (H.B.); (G.G.); (H.J.C.); (D.P.); (C.K.T.); (D.A.)
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766, USA
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Najafi Z, Taj L, Dadras O, Ghadimi F, Moradmand B, SeyedAlinaghi S. Epidemiology of HIV in Iran. Curr HIV Res 2020; 18:228-236. [PMID: 32503409 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x18666200605152317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
:
Iran has been one of the active countries fighting against HIV/AIDS in the Middle East
during the last decades. Moreover, there is a strong push to strengthen the national health management
system concerning HIV prevention and control. In Iran, HIV disease has its unique features,
from changes in modes of transmission to improvement in treatment and care programs, which can
make it a good case for closer scrutiny. The present review describes the HIV epidemic in Iran from
the first case diagnosed until prevention among different groups at risk and co-infections. Not only
we addressed the key populations and community-based attempts to overcome HIV-related issues in
clinics, but we also elaborated on the efforts and trends in society and the actual behaviors related to
HIV/AIDS. Being located in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, given the countryspecific
characteristics, and despite all the national efforts along with other countries in this region,
Iran still needs to take extra measures to reduce HIV transmission, especially in health education.
Although Iran is one of the pioneers in implementing applicable and appropriate policies in the
MENA region, including harm reduction services to reduce HIV incidence, people with substance
use disorder continue to be the majority of those living with HIV in the country. Similar to other
countries in this region, the HIV prevention and control programs aim at 90-90-90 targets to eliminate
HIV infection and reduce the transmission, especially the mother-to-child transmission and
among other key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Najafi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Taj
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Dadras
- Department of Health Informatics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Fatemeh Ghadimi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mahmud S, Mumtaz GR, Chemaitelly H, Al Kanaani Z, Kouyoumjian SP, Hermez JG, Abu‐Raddad LJ. The status of hepatitis C virus infection among people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa. Addiction 2020; 115:1244-1262. [PMID: 32009283 PMCID: PMC7318323 DOI: 10.1111/add.14944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS People who inject drugs (PWID) are a key population at high risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was to delineate the epidemiology of HCV in PWID in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). METHODS Syntheses of data were conducted on the standardized and systematically assembled databases of the MENA HCV Epidemiology Synthesis Project, 1989-2018. Random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed. Meta-regression variables included country, study site, year of data collection and year of publication [to assess trends in HCV antibody prevalence over time], sample size and sampling methodology. Numbers of chronically infected PWID across MENA were estimated. The Shannon Diversity Index was calculated to assess genotype diversity. RESULTS Based on 118 HCV antibody prevalence measures, the pooled mean prevalence in PWID for all MENA was 49.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 44.4-54.1%]. The country-specific pooled mean ranged from 21.7% (95% CI = 4.9-38.6%) in Tunisia to 94.2% (95% CI = 90.8-96.7%) in Libya. An estimated 221 704 PWID were chronically infected, with the largest numbers found in Iran at 68 526 and in Pakistan at 46 554. There was no statistically significant evidence for a decline in HCV antibody prevalence over time. Genotype diversity was moderate (Shannon Diversity Index of 1.01 out of 1.95; 52.1%). The pooled mean percentage for each HCV genotype was highest in genotype 3 (42.7%) and in genotype 1 (35.9%). CONCLUSION Half of people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa appear to have ever been infected with hepatitis C virus, but there are large variations in antibody prevalence among countries. In addition to > 200 000 chronically infected current people who inject drugs, there is an unknown number of people who no longer inject drugs who may have acquired hepatitis C virus during past injecting drug use. Harm reduction services must be expanded, and innovative strategies need to be employed to ensure accessibility to hepatitis C virus testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Ghina R. Mumtaz
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health SciencesAmerican University of BeirutBeirutLebanon
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Zaina Al Kanaani
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Silva P. Kouyoumjian
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Joumana G. Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/STIs Unit, World Health Organization,Regional Office for the Eastern MediterraneanCairoEgypt
| | - Laith J. Abu‐Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar,Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY, USA,College of Health and Life SciencesHamad bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
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Rashti R, Sharafi H, Alavian SM, Moradi Y, Mohamadi Bolbanabad A, Moradi G. Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Global Prevalence of HBsAg and HIV and HCV Antibodies among People Who Inject Drugs and Female Sex Workers. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9060432. [PMID: 32486342 PMCID: PMC7350380 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9060432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) and their co-infections among people who inject drugs (PWID) and female sex workers (FSWs). Data sources were searched from January 2008 to October 2018 in different databases. Data were analyzed in Stata 16 software using the Metaprop command. The results showed that the prevalence of HIV, HCV and HBV among PWID was 15%, 60% and 6%, respectively. The prevalence of HIV, HCV and HBV among FSWs was 5%, 1% and 3%, respectively. The prevalence of HIV/HCV, HIV/HBV, HCV/HBV and HIV/HCV/HBV co-infections among PWID was 13%, 2%, 3% and 2%, respectively. The prevalence of HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV co-infections among FSWs was 3% and 1%, respectively. The results show that the prevalence of HCV and HIV infections in PWID and the prevalence of HIV in FSWs is higher than their prevalence in the general population. Interventions for the prevention of HIV and HCV in PWID appear to be poor, and may not be sufficient to effectively prevent HIV and HCV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Rashti
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj 6617713446, Iran; (R.R.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Heidar Sharafi
- Middle East Liver Diseases Center, Tehran 1598976513, Iran;
| | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Professor of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Middle East Liver Disease Center, Tehran 1598976513, Iran;
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran;
| | - Amjad Mohamadi Bolbanabad
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj 6617713446, Iran; (R.R.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Ghobad Moradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj 6617713446, Iran; (R.R.); (A.M.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Epidemiology of Chlamydia trachomatis in the Middle East and north Africa: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2020; 7:e1197-e1225. [PMID: 31402004 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(19)30279-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology of Chlamydia trachomatis in the Middle East and north Africa is poorly understood. We aimed to provide a comprehensive epidemiological assessment of C trachomatis infection in the Middle East and north Africa. METHODS We did a systematic review of C trachomatis infection as well as a meta-analysis and meta-regression of C trachomatis prevalence. We searched PubMed and Embase, as well as regional and national databases up to March 13, 2019, using broad search terms with no language or year restrictions. Any document or report including biological measures for C trachomatis prevalence or incidence was eligible for inclusion. We extracted all measures of current (genital or rectal), recent, and ever infection with C trachomatis. We estimated pooled average prevalence in different populations using random-effects meta-analysis. Factors associated with prevalence and sources of between-study heterogeneity were determined using meta-regression. FINDINGS We identified a total of 1531 citations, of which 255 reports contributed to 552 C trachomatis prevalence measures from 20 countries. No incidence measures were identified. Pooled prevalence of current genital infection was 3·0% (95% CI 2·3-3·8) in general populations, 2·8% (1·0-5·2) in intermediate-risk populations, 13·2% (7·2-20·7) in female sex workers, 11·3% (9·0-13·7) in infertility clinic attendees, 12·4% (7·9-17·7) in women with miscarriage, 12·4% (9·4-15·7) in symptomatic women, and 17·4% (12·5-22·8) in symptomatic men. Pooled prevalence of current rectal infection was 7·7% (4·2-12·0) in men who have sex with men. Substantial between-study heterogeneity was found. Multivariable meta-regression explained 29·0% of variation. Population type was most strongly associated with prevalence. Additional associations were found with assay type, sample size, country, and sex, but not with sampling methodology or response rate (about 90% of studies used convenience sampling and >75% had unclear response rate). There was no evidence for temporal variation in prevalence between 1982 and 2018. INTERPRETATION C trachomatis prevalence in the Middle East and north Africa is similar to other regions, but higher than expected given its sexually conservative norms. High prevalence in infertility clinic attendees and in women with miscarriage suggests a potential role for C trachomatis in poor reproductive health outcomes in this region. FUNDING National Priorities Research Program from the Qatar National Research Fund (a member of Qatar Foundation).
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Chemaitelly H, Majed A, Abu-Hijleh F, Blondeel K, Matsaseng TC, Kiarie J, Toskin I, Abu-Raddad LJ. Global epidemiology of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in infertile populations: systematic review, meta-analysis and metaregression. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 97:157-169. [PMID: 32423944 PMCID: PMC7892374 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To provide an in-depth systematic assessment of the global epidemiology of gonorrhoea infection in infertile populations. Methods A systematic literature review was conducted up to 29 April 2019 on international databases and WHO regional databases, and reported following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. All prevalence measures of gonorrhoea infection among infertile populations, based on primary data, qualified for inclusion. Infertile populations were broadly defined to encompass women/men undergoing infertility evaluation or treatment (infertility clinic attendees and partners). Pooled mean prevalence by relevant strata was estimated using random-effects meta-analysis. Associations with prevalence and sources of heterogeneity were explored using metaregression. Risk of bias was assessed using four quality domains. Findings A total of 147 gonorrhoea prevalence studies were identified from 56 countries. The pooled mean prevalence of current gonorrhoea infection was estimated globally at 2.2% (95% CI 1.3% to 3.2%), with the highest prevalence in Africa at 5.0% (95% CI 1.9% to 9.3%). The mean prevalence was higher for populations with tubal factor infertility (3.6%, 95% CI 0.9%–7.7%) and mixed cause and unexplained infertility (3.6%, 95% CI 0.0% to 11.6%) compared with other diagnoses, such as ovarian and non-tubal infertility (0.1%, 95% CI 0.0% to 0.8%), and for secondary (2.5%, 95% CI 0.2% to 6.5%) compared with primary (0.5%, 95% CI 0.0% to 1.7%) infertility. Metaregression identified evidence of variations in prevalence by region and by infertility diagnosis, higher prevalence in women than men and a small-study effect. There was a trend of declining prevalence by about 3% per year over the last four decades (OR=0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.99). Conclusions Gonorrhoea prevalence in infertile populations is several folds higher than that in the general population, with even higher prevalence in women with tubal factor infertility and in individuals with secondary infertility. These findings support the potential role of gonorrhoea in infertility and suggest that some infertility is possibly preventable by controlling gonorrhoea transmission. PROSPERO registration number CRD42018102934.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Alzahraa Majed
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farah Abu-Hijleh
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Academic Quality Affairs Office, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Karel Blondeel
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thabo Christopher Matsaseng
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar .,Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
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Aldhaleei WA, Bhagavathula AS. HIV/AIDS-knowledge and attitudes in the Arabian Peninsula: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Infect Public Health 2020; 13:939-948. [PMID: 32359925 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV/AIDS prevention has been widely adopted worldwide, but little is known about HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes in the Arabian Peninsula. AIM To summarize the level of knowledge and attitude about HIV/AIDS in seven Arabian Peninsula countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)). METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using combined keywords in four scientific databases of peer-reviewed publications from January 2010 to June 2019. Twenty-five articles were included in the systematic review, and twenty studies in the meta-analysis. The data was analyzed using a random-effect model due to the heterogeneity between the studies. RESULTS Seventeen studies reported on the level of knowledge and overall knowledge about HIV/AIDS in this region: 74.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 66.8%-82.0%, p<0.001) and the attitude was 52.8% (95% CI: 36.9%-68.6%, p<0.001). A study from Oman reported higher knowledge levels (95.5%, 95% CI: 94.2%-96.8%) while less than a quarter of the Bahrain population had positive attitudes 22.5% (95% CI: 20.5%-24.5%). Medical doctors showed higher knowledge (94.1%, 95% CI: 92.9%-95.3%), but a positive attitude was only observed in 32.5% (95% CI: 28.8%-36.2%) of the dentists toward HIV/AIDS. CONCLUSION The overall knowledge about HIV/AIDS was found to be satisfactory (74.4%), but about half (52.8%) of those displayed negative attitudes toward HIV/AIDS. Regular training courses as well as reviewing and reinforcing HIV/AIDS prevention guidelines can be useful to update knowledge and improve attitudes in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Ali Aldhaleei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, P.O. Box: 11001, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, P.O. Box: 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Rahimi J, Gholami J, Amin-Esmaeili M, Fotouhi A, Rafiemanesh H, Shadloo B, Rahimi-Movaghar A. HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) and related factors in Iran: a systematic review, meta-analysis and trend analysis. Addiction 2020; 115:605-622. [PMID: 31631425 DOI: 10.1111/add.14853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In Iran, injecting drug use has been the major route of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. In order to control the HIV epidemic, a harm reduction program was initiated and has been expanded in recent years. The aim of this study was to provide an updated estimate of HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran, investigate prevalence differences over time and assess prevalence correlates. DESIGN A comprehensive systematic review was undertaken in the international, regional and national bibliographic databases in November 2018 and extensive contacts with authors were made. For studies conducted before 2005, we used data from a previous published systematic review. SETTING All studies conducted in Iran were included. Recruitment settings included anywhere except studies conducted in infectious diseases wards or HIV counseling centers. PARTICIPANTS PWID with any definition utilized in the studies. Thirty-six studies were included, which were conducted in 24 of 31 provinces with a sample size of 22 160 PWID. MEASUREMENTS We included studies that had performed HIV testing and had a confirmed diagnosis of HIV through repeating the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Western immunoblot assay (WB). Pooled prevalence of HIV was calculated for the total sample and for different subgroups, by available socio-demographic and behavioral factors. For assessing the trend of HIV prevalence over time, a linear meta-regression model was fitted separately for before 2007 and during 2007 and afterwards. FINDINGS The pooled prevalences of HIV before 2007 and in 2007 and afterwards were 14.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 9.8-18.9] and 9.7% (95% CI = 7.6-11.9), respectively. HIV prevalence increased until 2005-06 and then slowly declined until 2009-10, which was not significant. Prevalence of HIV was significantly higher in PWID above age 25 years, and in those with history of imprisonment and history of needle/syringe-sharing. HIV prevalence was higher in men than in women, but the difference was insignificant. CONCLUSION The prevalence of HIV among people who inject drugs in Iran decreased after 2006 which could, at least in part, be attributed to the development of extensive harm reduction programs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamileh Rahimi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Fotouhi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hosein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Fulop N, Barbosa EC, Hill M, Ledger J, Sherlaw-Johnson C, Spencer J, Vindrola-Padros C, Morris S. Special Measures for Quality and Challenged Providers: Study Protocol for Evaluating the Impact of Improvement Interventions in NHS Trusts. Int J Health Policy Manag 2020; 9:143-151. [PMID: 32331494 PMCID: PMC7182148 DOI: 10.15171/ijhpm.2019.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Healthcare organisations in England rated as inadequate in terms of leadership and one other domain enter the Special Measures for Quality (SMQ) regime to receive increased support and oversight. There is also a ‘watch list’ of challenged National Health Service (NHS) providers at risk of going into SMQ that receive support. There is limited knowledge about whether the interventions used to deliver this support drive improvements in quality, their costs, and whether they strike the right balance between support and scrutiny. The study will seek to determine how provider organisations respond to these interventions, and whether and how these interventions impact organisations’ capacity to achieve and sustain quality improvements over time.
Methods: This is a multi-site, mixed methods study. We will carry out interviews at national level to understand the programme theory underpinning the interventions. We will conduct 8 NHS case studies to explore the impact and implementation of the interventions that form part of the SMQ and challenged providers programme. We will use a conceptual framework based on models of organisational readiness for change and draw on board maturity research for implementing quality improvement. We will also review the use of quantitative metrics and data for tracking the progress of improvements in quality of care and sustainability upon leaving SMQ, as well as the costs and benefits of the interventions through a cost-consequence analysis (CCA).
Discussion: High-quality interventions that successfully support struggling healthcare organisations are essential and an issue that is an international concern. Our study will allow a greater understanding of the programme theory, impact, and staff views and experiences of the SMQ and challenged providers regime. Formative feedback will be reported to key stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Fulop
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Melissa Hill
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jean Ledger
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Steve Morris
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Nasirian M, Kianersi S, Karamouzian M, Sidahmed M, Baneshi MR, Haghdoost AA, Sharifi H. HIV Modes of Transmission in Sudan in 2014. Int J Health Policy Manag 2020; 9:108-115. [PMID: 32202093 PMCID: PMC7093043 DOI: 10.15171/ijhpm.2019.91] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In Sudan, where studies on HIV dynamics are few, model projections provide an additional source of information for policy-makers to identify data collection priorities and develop prevention programs. In this study, we aimed to estimate the distribution of new HIV infections by mode of exposure and to identify populations who are disproportionately contributing to the total number of new infections in Sudan. Methods: We applied the modes of transmission (MoT) mathematical model in Sudan to estimate the distribution of new HIV infections among the 15-49 age group for 2014, based on the main routes of exposure to HIV. Data for the MoT model were collected through a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, grey literature, interviews with key participants and focus groups. We used the MoT uncertainty module to represent uncertainty in model projections and created one general model for the whole nation and 5 sub-models for each region (Northern, Central, Eastern, Kurdufan, and Khartoum regions). We also examined how different service coverages could change HIV incidence rates and distributions in Sudan. Results: The model estimated that about 6000 new HIV infections occurred in Sudan in 2014 (95% CI: 4651-7432). Men who had sex with men (MSM) (30.52%), female sex workers (FSW) (16.37%), and FSW’s clients accounted (19.43%) for most of the new HIV cases. FSW accounted for the highest incidence rate in the Central, Kurdufan, and Khartoum regions; and FSW’s clients had the highest incidence rate in the Eastern and Northern regions. The annual incidence rate of HIV in the total adult population was estimated at 330 per 1 000 000 populations. The incidence rate was at its highest in the Eastern region (980 annual infections per 1 000 000 populations). Conclusion: Although the national HIV incidence rate estimate was relatively low compared to that observed in some sub-Saharan African countries with generalized epidemics, a more severe epidemic existed within certain regions and key populations. HIV burden was mostly concentrated among MSM, FSW, and FSW’s clients both nationally and regionally. Thus, the authorities should pay more attention to key populations and Eastern and Northern regions when developing prevention programs. The findings of this study can improve HIV prevention programs in Sudan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nasirian
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Health School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.,Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sina Kianersi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- School of Population and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Reza Baneshi
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Haghdoost
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman,Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman,Iran
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Mahmud S, Chemaitelly HS, Kouyoumjian SP, Al Kanaani Z, Abu‐Raddad LJ. Key associations for hepatitis C virus genotypes in the Middle East and North Africa. J Med Virol 2020; 92:386-393. [PMID: 31663611 PMCID: PMC7003848 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) through an analytical and quantitative meta-regression methodology. For the most common genotypes 1, 3, and 4, country/subregion explained more than 77% of the variation in the distribution of each genotype. Genotype 1 was common across MENA, and was more present in high-risk clinical populations than in the general population. Genotype 3 was much more present in Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan than the rest of countries, and was associated with transmission through injecting drug use. Genotype 4 was broadly disseminated in Egypt in all populations, with overall limited presence elsewhere. While genotype 2 was more present in high-risk clinical populations and people who inject drugs, most of the variation in its distribution remained unexplained. Genotypes 5, 6, and 7 had low or no presence in MENA, limiting the epidemiological inferences that could be drawn. To sum up, geography is the principal determinant of HCV genotype distribution. Genotype 1 is associated with transmission through high-risk clinical procedures, while genotype 3 is associated with injecting drug use. These findings demonstrate the power of such analytical approach, which if extended to other regions and globally, can yield relevant epidemiological inferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation‐Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Hiam S. Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation‐Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Silva P. Kouyoumjian
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation‐Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Zaina Al Kanaani
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation‐Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Laith J. Abu‐Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation‐Education CityDohaQatar
- Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNew York
- College of Health and Life SciencesHamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
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Torkashvand S, Pirdehghan A, Jiriaee N, Hoseini M, Ahmadpanah M. Sexual Violence in Women with HIV Positive Spouse and Their Mental Health. J Res Health Sci 2020; 20:e00472. [PMID: 32814692 PMCID: PMC7585757 DOI: 10.34172/jrhs.2020.07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sexual violence (SV) against women is one of the most important issues in women's health. We aimed to investigate the related variable for SV against women with HIV spouse and its relationship with mental problems in them.
Study design: A cross-sectional study.
Methods: This study was performed on 143 women referred to Hamadan and Malayer Risky Behavior Related Disease Clinic (Triangular Clinic), located in Comprehensive Health Service centers, Iran in 2019. SV and mental problems were assessed using standard questionnaires, based on interview. All analyses performed using SPSS. The significance level of all analyses was considered 0.05.
Results: Totally, 407 HIV+ patients were diagnosed from 1998 to 2018, in Hamadan and Malayer cities. We assessed the wives of survivors who allowed about SV. Mean of SV in women with HIV positive spouse was significantly higher than control group (P=0.004). Among all variables, unsafe sex, extramarital relationship, smoking, alcohol, multi-partner and suicide were significantly related to SV; but age, living area, educational status, income and job in both men and women had not statically significant relationship with SV.
Conclusion: SV besides its complications and mental problems in women with HIV positive spouses must be considered in interventional programs in order to improve sexual rights in this vulnerable group in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saman Torkashvand
- Student Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Azar Pirdehghan
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran .
| | - Nasrin Jiriaee
- Department of Community and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Hamadan university of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mahsan Hoseini
- Hamadan Province Health Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ahmadpanah
- Behavioral disorders and substances abuse research center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Kawambwa RH, Majigo MV, Mohamed AA, Matee MI. High prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B and C viral infections among people who inject drugs: a potential stumbling block in the control of HIV and viral hepatitis in Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:177. [PMID: 32019536 PMCID: PMC7001263 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8294-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tanzania has witnessed a significant decrease in the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and viral hepatitis in the general population attributed to several interventional measures. It is uncertain whether this decline has also occurred among people who inject drugs (PWID). This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B and C viruses infection among PWID recruited from their hotspot sites in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted between June and September 2017 recruited PWID from pre-identified hotspot sites using a snowball referral sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information regarding socio-demographic characteristics, behaviour and drug use. Blood was tested for the presence of IgG antibodies against HIV and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Data were entered in the computer using excel software and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20. Results A total of 219 PWID were recruited, the majority of whom were males (74.9%), unmarried (60.7%), had low education (62.6%) and low income (57.1%). The median age was 39 years, with an inter-quartile range of 35–43. Approximately 32.0% had a history of drug injection for more than 3 years, 79.9% were injecting drugs more than 3 times per day and 47.5% were sharing needles. The overall prevalence of HIV, HBsAg, and HCV was 33.8, 7.8, and 50.2%, respectively. There was serologic evidence of at least one infection for 68.9%, while 22.4% had two or more infections. HIV infection was independently associated with being married, while HCV was associated with injecting drugs for more than 3 years and unprotected sex. Conclusion Over two-third of PWID had serologic evidence of infection with at least one virus while 22.4% having at least two infections. The high prevalence of HIV and viral hepatitis infections among PWID may hamper initiatives of ending HIV and viral hepatitis epidemics in Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahim H Kawambwa
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mtebe V Majigo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Ahmed A Mohamed
- Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mecky I Matee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Trickey A, Fraser H, Lim AG, Walker JG, Peacock A, Colledge S, Leung J, Grebely J, Larney S, Martin NK, Degenhardt L, Hickman M, May MT, Vickerman P. Modelling the potential prevention benefits of a treat-all hepatitis C treatment strategy at global, regional and country levels: A modelling study. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1388-1403. [PMID: 31392812 PMCID: PMC10401696 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently produced guidelines advising a treat-all policy for HCV to encourage widespread treatment scale-up for achieving HCV elimination. We modelled the prevention impact achieved (HCV infections averted [IA]) from initiating this policy compared with treating different subgroups at country, regional and global levels. We assessed what country-level factors affect impact. A dynamic, deterministic HCV transmission model was calibrated to data from global systematic reviews and UN data sets to simulate country-level HCV epidemics with ongoing levels of treatment. For each country, the model projected the prevention impact (in HCV IA per treatment undertaken) of initiating four treatment strategies; either selected randomly (treat-all) or targeted among people who inject drugs (PWID), people aged ≥35, or those with cirrhosis. The IA was assessed over 20 years. Linear regression was used to identify associations between IA per treatment and demographic factors. Eighty-eight countries (85% of the global population) were modelled. Globally, the model estimated 0.35 (95% credibility interval [95%CrI]: 0.16-0.61) IA over 20 years for every randomly allocated treatment, 0.30 (95%CrI: 0.12-0.53) from treating those aged ≥35 and 0.28 (95%CrI: 0.12-0.49) for those with cirrhosis. Globally, treating PWID achieved 1.27 (95%CrI: 0.68-2.04) IA per treatment. The IA per randomly allocated treatment was positively associated with a country's population growth rate and negatively associated with higher HCV prevalence among PWID. In conclusion, appreciable prevention benefits could be achieved from WHO's treat-all strategy, although greater benefits per treatment can be achieved through targeting PWID. Higher impact will be achieved in countries with high population growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Trickey
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Aaron G Lim
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha Colledge
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Janni Leung
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Youth Substance Abuse Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jason Grebely
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah Larney
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions, Bristol, UK
| | - Margaret T May
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions, Bristol, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions, Bristol, UK
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Self-Esteem and HIV Infection in Morocco: Associated Factors Among People Living with HIV-Results from a Community-Based Study. Community Ment Health J 2019; 55:1402-1410. [PMID: 30929118 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-019-00394-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
People living with HIV (PLHIV) face specific issues regarding mental quality of life (QoL), in particular self-esteem. The objective of this study was to measure self-esteem and to identify associated factors among PLHIV in Morocco. A 125-item questionnaire was administered to 300 PLHIV. The dependent variable was adapted from Rosenberg's self-esteem scale (range 0-4). A weighted multiple linear regression was performed. The mean level of self-esteem was 2.4 ± 1.0. The factors independently associated with self-esteem were: feeling of loneliness (p = 0.001), perceived seriousness of infection (p = 0.006), thinking serostatus disclosure was a mistake (p = 0.007), thinking HIV infection will last for life (p = 0.008), sexual orientation (p = 0.050), satisfaction with sexual life (p = 0.019) and perceived treatment efficacy (p = 0.009). These results underline the need for evidence-based interventions (e.g. anti-discrimination measures, interventions to prevent social isolation of PLHIV, support in the serostatus disclosure process), in order to improve the social environment and eventually improve their self-esteem and QoL.
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47
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Prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and their association with sexual practices and substance use among 2238 MSM in Lebanon. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15142. [PMID: 31641252 PMCID: PMC6806001 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51688-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
UNAIDS report documents 95% increase in new HIV infections among key populations in Eastern Europe and Middle East and North Africa region. Data on HIV and STIs among MSM in Lebanon is still scarce. Therefore, the aim was to assess prevalence of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Lebanon and associations with sexual practices and substance-use. 2238 MSM attended a sexual health clinic in Lebanon between 2015-2018. Demographics, substance-use and sexual practices were collected. Attendees tested for HIV and other STIs. HIV infection was diagnosed in 5.6% of the sample. Only 19% received sexual health education from reliable sources (school/university/healthcare workers), 78% reported having multiple partners in the past three months (2-5 partners: 58%, 6+: 20%) and 67% reported inconsistent condom-use. Moreover, 40% of HIV + cases were returning attendees who already received information about condom-use. Additionally, having only a school level education (11%) increases the odds of having inconsistent condom-use with casual partners (adj.OR:1.9, p < 0.001). The results reflect the urgent need for: (1) accurate and comprehensive sexual health and harm reduction education and promotion in Lebanon; (2) making pre-exposure prophylaxis available for free to key populations to contain the epidemics at an early stage.
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48
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Etemad K, Khodakarim S, Sharhani A, Noroozi A, Higgs P, Gheibipour H. Estimation of direct and indirect effects of risk behaviors on HCV infection among people who inject drugs in Kermanshah, Iran: a path analysis study. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2019.1675783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koorosh Etemad
- Department of Epidemiology, Environmental and Occupational Hazards Control Research Center, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Khodakarim
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Paramedical Sciences, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asaad Sharhani
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Higgs
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Hamid Gheibipour
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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49
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Mumtaz GR, Hilmi N, Majed EZ, Abu-Raddad LJ. Characterising HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes in the Middle East and North Africa: Systematic review and data synthesis. Glob Public Health 2019; 15:275-298. [PMID: 31558094 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1668452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes in various population groups in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and highlights their relevance to HIV epidemiology and the design and implementation of preventions and treatment efforts. PubMed and the MENA HIV/AIDS Epidemiology Synthesis Project database of grey/unpublished literature were searched. Levels of knowledge were categorised based on presence of basic knowledge, comprehensive knowledge, and misconceptions and misinformation. Attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) were classified into positive or negative. Basic knowledge was overall high among key populations at higher risk of infection (KPAR), and bridging and general population groups, but still a few population pockets had low basic knowledge. Level of comprehensive knowledge was overall low, and misinformation and misconceptions were prevalent. Some KPAR, including people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and female sex workers, were unaware of some modes of HIV transmission. Perception of risk of infection was low even among KPAR. We found differentials in knowledge putting women, rural populations, refugees, and other marginalised minorities at a disadvantage. Attitudes towards PLHIV tended to be negative. These findings are of concern, particularly for KPAR currently experiencing emerging HIV epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghina R Mumtaz
- Department of Epidemiology and population Health, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.,Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nahla Hilmi
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - El Zahraa Majed
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA.,College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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50
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Chemaitelly H, Weiss HA, Smolak A, Majed E, Abu-Raddad LJ. Epidemiology of Treponema pallidum, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and herpes simplex virus type 2 among female sex workers in the Middle East and North Africa: systematic review and meta-analytics. J Glob Health 2019; 9:020408. [PMID: 31360448 PMCID: PMC6642815 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.09.020408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the role of commercial heterosexual sex networks in driving STI transmission in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remain largely unknown. Objective To characterize the epidemiology of Treponema pallidum (syphilis), Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) among female sex workers (FSWs) in MENA using an in-depth quantitative assessment. Methods A systematic review on ten international, regional, and country-level databases was conducted, and reported following PRISMA guidelines. Pooled prevalences of current and/or ever infection for each STI were estimated using random-effects meta-analyses. Sources of between-study heterogeneity were investigated through random-effects meta-regressions. Results One T. pallidum incidence study and 144 STI prevalence studies were identified for 45 812 FSWs in 13 MENA countries. The pooled prevalence of current infection was 12.7% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.5%-17.7%) for T. pallidum, 14.4% (95% CI = 8.2%-22.0%) for C. trachomatis, 5.7% (95% CI = 3.5%-8.4%) for N. gonorrhoeae, and 7.1% (95% CI = 4.3%-10.5%) for T. vaginalis. The pooled prevalence of ever infection (seropositivity using antibody testing) was 12.8% (95% CI = 9.4%-16.6%) for T. pallidum, 80.3% (95% CI = 53.2%-97.6%) for C. trachomatis, and 23.7% (95% CI = 10.2%-40.4%) for HSV-2. The multivariable meta-regression for T. pallidum infection demonstrated strong subregional differences, with the Horn of Africa and North Africa showing, respectively 6-fold (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 6.4; 95% CI = 2.5-16.7) and 5-fold (AOR = 5.0; 95% CI = 2.5-10.6) higher odds of infection than Eastern MENA. There was also strong evidence for declining T. pallidum odds of infection at 7% per year (AOR = 0.93; 95% CI = 0.88-0.98). Study-specific factors including diagnostic method, sample size, sampling methodology, and response rate, were not associated with syphilis infection. The multivariable model explained 48.5% of the variation in T. pallidum prevalence. Conclusions STI infection levels among FSWs in MENA are considerable, supporting a key role for commercial heterosexual sex networks in transmission dynamics, and highlighting the health needs of this neglected and vulnerable population. Syphilis prevalence in FSWs appears to have been declining for at least three decades. Gaps in evidence persist for multiple countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Smolak
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Elzahraa Majed
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Healthcare Policy & Research, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA.,College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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