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Velasquez R, Moore ME, Sheets G, Nieves-Rivera C, Van Nuland S, Cuccia M, Tsien F, Hollenbach AD. A needs-assessment survey of the high school LGBTQ+ environment by a health science center interprofessional team. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2024; 9:1356007. [PMID: 39239119 PMCID: PMC11374741 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2024.1356007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Despite improvements in the awareness and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender diverse (LGBTQ+) individuals, the LGBTQ+ community continues to experience discrimination, which can result in adverse health outcomes. In particular, LGBTQ+ youth have an increased risk of experiencing depression, substance abuse, and suicide. Societal stigma and rejection, bullying, and familial disapproval all contribute to these health disparities. In recognition of these inequities, an interprofessional team of biomedical faculty members, staff, and trainees from the Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC) in New Orleans developed the needs-assessment evaluation, the Gender and Sexual Minority Youth Outreach Survey (GSMYO) for high school students. Health science centers have access to resources and experienced personnel who can provide support and education to high school students, teachers, and administrative staff. However, it is important to first determine the high schools' specific needs, attitudes towards LGBTQ+ acceptance, and their current resources. Faculty, staff, and trainees from the LSUHSC Science Youth Initiative (SYI) and the LSUHSC LGBTQ+ Organization, Tiger Pride, administered the short, anonymous survey to adolescents attending Southeast Louisiana high schools. English Language Learner (ELL) students received the survey in Spanish. Results from the GSMYO needs-assessment survey are presented. Other health science centers may adapt the presented survey to develop needs-based LGBTQ+ high school programs to address the educational and health inequities in their own communities, regardless of location or demographic region.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary E Moore
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Gabrielle Sheets
- School of Graduate Studies, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Christian Nieves-Rivera
- School of Graduate Studies, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Children's Hospital of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Sonya Van Nuland
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Martha Cuccia
- School of Public Health, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Fern Tsien
- School of Graduate Studies, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Andrew D Hollenbach
- School of Graduate Studies, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
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Shi F, Cai R, He B, Li X, Yang X, Weissman S, Olatosi B, Zhang J. Sexual orientation, gender identity and virologic failure among people with HIV: a cohort study in all of US research program. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2091. [PMID: 39095751 PMCID: PMC11295912 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19559-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) are at higher risk of HIV incidence compared to their heterosexual cisgender counterparts. Despite the high HIV disease burden among SGMs, there was limited data on whether they are at higher risk of virologic failure, which may lead to potential disease progression and increased transmission risk. The All of Us (AoU) Research Program, a national community-engaged program aiming to improve health and facilitate health equity in the United States by partnering with one million participants, provides a promising resource for identifying a diverse and large volunteer TGD cohort. Leveraging various data sources available through AoU, the current study aims to explore the association between sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) and longitudinal virologic failure among adult people with HIV (PWH) in the US. METHODS This retrospective cohort study used integrated electronic health records (EHR) and self-reported survey data from the All of Us (AoU) controlled tier data, version 7, which includes participants enrolled in the AoU research program from May 31, 2017, to July 1, 2022. Based on participants' sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex assigned at birth, their SOGI were categorized into six groups, including cisgender heterosexual women, cisgender heterosexual men, cisgender sexual minority women, cisgender sexual minority men, gender minority people assigned female at birth of any sexual orientation, and gender minority people assigned male at birth of any sexual orientation. Yearly virologic failure was defined yearly after one's first viral load testing, and individuals with at least one viral load test > 50 copies/mL during a year were defined as having virologic failure at that year. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to explore the association between SOGI and longitudinal virologic failure while adjusting for potential confounders, including age, race, ethnicity, education attainment, income, and insurance type. RESULTS A total of 1,546 eligible PWH were extracted from the AoU database, among whom 1,196 (77.36%) had at least one viral failure and 773 (50.00%) belonged to SGMs. Compared to cisgender heterosexual women, cisgender sexual minority women (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.05-3.27) were at higher risk of HIV virologic failure. Additionally, PWH who were Black vs. White (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.52-3.04) and whose insurance type was Medicaid vs. Private insurance (aOR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.33-3.21) were more likely to experience virologic failure. CONCLUSIONS Maintaining frequent viral load monitoring among sexual minority women with HIV is warranted because it allows early detection of virologic failure, which could provide opportunities for interventions to strengthen treatment adherence and prevent HIV transmission. To understand the specific needs of subgroups of SGMs, future research needs to examine the mechanisms for SOGI-based disparities in virologic failure and the combined effects of multi-level psychosocial and health behavior characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanghui Shi
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
| | - Ruilie Cai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Buwei He
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Xiaoming Li
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Xueying Yang
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Sharon Weissman
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Bankole Olatosi
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Department of Health Services Policy and Management, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Jiajia Zhang
- South Carolina SmartState Center for Healthcare Quality, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
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Walters TL, Clark AN, Lefkowitz ES. "They Mostly Preached Abstinence Which Didn't Work": Young Adults' Perception of Sex-Related Messages from Caregivers Prior to Initiation of Sex. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2024; 53:3173-3186. [PMID: 38914863 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02916-3] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Parental communication about sex is an important aspect of sexual socialization. However, research has primarily focused on sexual communication's presence, frequency, or topics, with less research on the specific messages parents communicate. Further, few studies have differentiated between communication received before and after youth initiated sex. Therefore, in this paper, we coded open-ended survey responses to explore the sex-related messages young adults report receiving from their caregiver(s) before they began engaging in sex. As part of a larger study, 381 U.S. young adults (Mage = 21.0 years, SD = 2.0) completed an online survey and responded to an open-ended question about messages their caregiver(s) communicated before they began engaging in sex. Participants identified as cisgender women (62.2%), cisgender men (12.1%), and gender diverse (25.7%), and were primarily lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, questioning, or otherwise non-heterosexual (LGBQ+; 70.6%) young adults. Through thematic analysis, we identified six themes for caregivers' sex-related messages: sex-restrictive, safety and consequences, no, negative, sex-positive, and informational messages. In addition, we found that messages varied by young adults' gender identity and sexual orientation. Our findings suggest that young adults may not receive proper education about healthy sexual relationships and demonstrate the need for interventions with caregivers, as well as sexual health resources for adolescents and young adults, particularly LGBTQ+ youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Walters
- Department of Integrated Studies, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at Rock County, 2909 Kellogg Ave., Janesville, WI, 53546, USA.
| | - Alyssa N Clark
- Department of Psychology, College of Wooster, Wooster, OH, USA
| | - Eva S Lefkowitz
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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Brown EE, Patel EU, Poteat TC, Mayer K, Wawrzyniak AJ, Radix AE, Cooney EE, Laeyendecker O, Reisner SL, Wirtz AL. Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Transgender Women With and Without HIV in the Eastern and Southern United States. J Infect Dis 2024; 229:1614-1627. [PMID: 38232978 PMCID: PMC11175699 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the epidemiology of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among transgender women (TGW) with and without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are limited. METHODS We analyzed baseline data collected from a cohort of adult TGW across 6 eastern and southern US cities between March 2018 and August 2020 (n = 1018). Participants completed oral HIV screening, provided self-collected rectal and urogenital specimens for chlamydia and gonorrhea testing, and provided sera specimens for syphilis testing. We assessed associations with ≥1 prevalent bacterial STI using modified Poisson regression. RESULTS Bacterial STI prevalence was high and differed by HIV status: 32% among TGW with HIV and 11% among those without HIV (demographic-adjusted prevalence ratio = 1.91; 95% confidence interval = 1.39-2.62). Among TGW without HIV, bacterial STI prevalence differed by geographic region, race and ethnicity, and gender identity, and was positively associated with reporting >1 sexual partner, hazardous alcohol use, homelessness, having safety concerns regarding transit to health care, and no prior receipt of gender-affirming health services. Among TGW with HIV, older age was inversely associated with bacterial STI. CONCLUSIONS TGW had a high prevalence of bacterial STIs. The prevalence and correlates of bacterial STI differed by HIV status, highlighting the unique needs and risks of TGW with and without HIV. Tailored interventions may reduce sexual health-related inequities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Brown
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eshan U Patel
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Tonia C Poteat
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kenneth Mayer
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew J Wawrzyniak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Asa E Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Erin E Cooney
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Oliver Laeyendecker
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrea L Wirtz
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Vechi HT, Bay MB, de Freitas CHS, de Sant’anna JGFC, Brites C, de Lima KC. Factors associated with hepatitis A susceptibility among men who have sex with men using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Northeastern Brazil: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301397. [PMID: 38547222 PMCID: PMC10977755 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection has disproportionately affected more men who have sex with men (MSM), occurring in outbreaks, despite being vaccine-preventable. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with HAV susceptibility among cisgender MSM on HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Northeastern Brazil. From September 30, 2021 to June 19, 2023, 282 cisgender MSM receiving HIV PrEP were enrolled into this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic and clinical information were collected. Blood samples were collected for screening of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and serum samples were tested for IgM and total anti-HAV antibodies. Non-reactive results for total anti-HAV antibodies were found in 106 of 282 (37.6%) participants. Factors associated with HAV susceptibility included age <30 years (prevalence ratio [PR]: 2.02; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.61-2.53), having health insurance (PR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.19-1.64), sex only with cisgender men (PR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.23-1.89), non-steady partner (PR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.01-1.43) and no lifetime history of STIs (PR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.03-1.53). Identifying clinical correlates of HAV susceptibility in key populations is a fundamental step towards development of public policy focused on prevention, especially following the recent hepatitis A outbreak in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hareton Teixeira Vechi
- Institute of Tropical Medicine of Rio Grande do Norte, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
- Multicampi School of Medical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Caicó, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Mônica Baumgardt Bay
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Henrique Silva de Freitas
- Institute of Tropical Medicine of Rio Grande do Norte, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos Brites
- Hospital Universitário Prof. Edgard Santos, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Kenio Costa de Lima
- Department of Odontology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
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Lamontagne E, Leroy V, Yakusik A, Parker W, Howell S, Ventelou B. Assessment and determinants of depression and anxiety on a global sample of sexual and gender diverse people at high risk of HIV: a public health approach. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:215. [PMID: 38238673 PMCID: PMC10795213 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17493-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual and gender diverse people face intersecting factors affecting their well-being and livelihood. These include homophobic reactions, stigma or discrimination at the workplace and in healthcare facilities, economic vulnerability, lack of social support, and HIV. This study aimed to examine the association between such factors and symptoms of anxiety and depression among sexual and gender diverse people. METHODS This study is based on a sample of 108,389 gay, bisexual, queer and questioning men, and transfeminine people from 161 countries collected through a cross-sectional internet survey. We developed a multinomial logistic regression for each group to study the associations of the above factors at different severity scores for anxiety and depression symptoms. RESULTS Almost a third (30.3%) of the participants reported experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. Higher severity scores were found for transfeminine people (39%), and queer or questioning people (34.8%). Severe symptoms of anxiety and depression were strongly correlated with economic hardship for all groups. Compared to those who are HIV-negative, those living with HIV were more likely to report severe symptoms of anxiety and depression, and the highest score was among those who do not know their HIV status. Transfeminine people were the most exposed group, with more than 80% higher risk for those living with HIV suffering from anxiety and depression. Finally, homophobic reactions were strongly associated with anxiety and depression. The relative risk of severe anxiety and depression was 3.47 times higher for transfeminine people facing transphobic reactions than those with no symptoms. Moreover, anxiety and depression correlate with stigma or discrimination in the workplace and healthcare facilities. CONCLUSIONS The strong association between the severity of anxiety and depression, and socioeconomic inequality and HIV status highlights the need for concrete actions to meet the United Nations' pledge to end inequalities faced by communities and people affected by HIV. Moreover, the association between stigma or discrimination and anxiety and depression among sexual and gender diverse people is alarming. There is a need for bold structural public health interventions, particularly for transfeminine, queer and questioning people who represent three communities under the radar of national HIV programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Lamontagne
- UNAIDS, 20 Ave Appia, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, EHESS, Centrale Marseille, Aix-Marseille School of Economics, 5-9 Boulevard Maurice Bourdet 13205, Marseille, France.
| | - Vincent Leroy
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de La Santé & Traitement de L'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Anna Yakusik
- UNAIDS, 20 Ave Appia, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
- Imperial College London, Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, London, SW7 2AZ, England
| | | | | | - Bruno Ventelou
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, EHESS, Centrale Marseille, Aix-Marseille School of Economics, 5-9 Boulevard Maurice Bourdet 13205, Marseille, France
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Unger ES, McConnell M, Austin SB, Rosenthal MB, Agénor M. Examining the Association Between Affordable Care Act Medicaid Expansion and Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing Among U.S. Women. Womens Health Issues 2024; 34:14-25. [PMID: 37945444 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates are rising among women in the United States, increasing the importance of routine STI testing. Beginning in 2014, some states expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, providing health coverage to most individuals in and near poverty. Here, we investigate whether Medicaid expansion changed rates of STI testing among U.S. women. METHODS We analyzed nationally representative 2011-2017 National Survey of Family Growth data from U.S. women ages 15-44. Using difference-in-differences analysis, we assessed whether Medicaid expansion was associated with within-state changes in the prevalence of STI testing in the past 12 months, among women overall and by race/ethnicity and sexual orientation, during each year following Medicaid expansion. Models were adjusted for individual- and state-level demographic and socioeconomic factors. RESULTS Our sample included 14,196 U.S. women. Medicaid expansion was associated with higher STI testing rates, which increased over time. By 3 years post-expansion, expansion states had increased STI testing by 12.7 percentage points more than nonexpansion states (95% confidence interval [CI] [2.5, 23.0], p = .016). This association was imprecisely estimated within racial/ethnic and sexual orientation subgroups, but trended strongest among white, Latina, and heterosexual women, followed by Black and bisexual women (who tested more often at baseline). CONCLUSIONS Medicaid expansion is associated with increased STI testing among U.S. women; these benefits grew over time but varied by both race/ethnicity and sexual orientation. State governments that fail to expand Medicaid may harm their residents' health by allowing more spread of STIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily S Unger
- Cambridge Health Alliance Family Medicine Residency, Malden, Massachusetts.
| | - Margaret McConnell
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - S Bryn Austin
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Meredith B Rosenthal
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Madina Agénor
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
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Solnick RE, Cortes R, Chang EJ, Dudas P, Deng D, Jamison CD, Mmeje O, Kocher KE. A National Study of Expedited Partner Therapy Use in Emergency Departments: A Survey of Medical Director Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:22-27. [PMID: 37889937 PMCID: PMC11065139 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency departments (EDs) are the primary source of health care for many patients diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Expedited partner therapy (EPT), treating the partner of patients with STIs, is an evidence-based practice for patients who might not otherwise seek care. Little is known about the use of EPT in the ED. In a national survey, we describe ED medical directors' knowledge, attitudes, and practices of EPT. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of medical directors from academic EDs was conducted from July to September 2020 using the Academy of Academic Administrators of Emergency Medicine Benchmarking Group. Primary outcomes were EPT awareness, support, and use. The survey also examined barriers and facilitators. RESULTS Forty-eight of 70 medical directors (69%) responded. Seventy-three percent were aware of EPT, but fewer knew how to prescribe it (38%), and only 19% of EDs had implemented EPT. Seventy-nine percent supported EPT and were more likely to if they were aware of EPT (89% vs. 54%; P = 0.01). Of nonimplementers, 41% thought EPT was feasible, and 56% thought departmental support would be likely. Emergency department directors were most concerned about legal liability, but a large proportion (44%) viewed preventing sequelae of untreated STIs as "extremely important." CONCLUSIONS Emergency department medical directors expressed strong support for EPT and reasonable levels of feasibility for implementation but low utilization. Our findings highlight the need to identify mechanisms for EPT implementation in EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Solnick
- Mount Sinai Hospital Icahn School of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Paul Dudas
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| | | | - Cornelius D. Jamison
- Department of Family Medicine University of Michigan Medical School
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan
| | - Okeoma Mmeje
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School
- Adjunct Faculty, Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health
| | - Keith E. Kocher
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan
- Department of Learning Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Michigan; Ann Arbor, M, Ann Arbor, MI
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Cascalheira CJ, Pugh TH, Hong C, Birkett M, Macapagal K, Holloway IW. Developing technology-based interventions for infectious diseases: ethical considerations for young sexual and gender minority people. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1303218. [PMID: 38169805 PMCID: PMC10759218 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1303218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers, young sexual and gender minority (YSGM) people are more likely to contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs; e.g., HIV) and to face adverse consequences of emerging infections, such as COVID-19 and mpox. To reduce these sexual health disparities, technology-based interventions (TBIs) for STIs and emerging infections among YSGM adolescents and young adults have been developed. In this Perspective, we discuss ethical issues, ethical principles, and recommendations in the development and implementation of TBIs to address STIs and emerging infections among YSGM. Our discussion covers: (1) confidentiality, privacy, and data security (e.g., if TBI use is revealed, YSGM are at increased risk of discrimination and family rejection); (2) empowerment and autonomy (e.g., designing TBIs that can still function if YSGM users opt-out of multiple features and data collection requests); (3) evidence-based and quality controlled (e.g., going above and beyond minimum FDA effectiveness standards to protect vulnerable YSGM people); (4) cultural sensitivity and tailoring (e.g., using YSGM-specific models of prevention and intervention); (5) balancing inclusivity vs. group specificity (e.g., honoring YSGM heterogeneity); (6) duty to care (e.g., providing avenues to contact affirming healthcare professionals); (7) equitable access (e.g., prioritizing YSGM people living in low-resource, high-stigma areas); and (8) digital temperance (e.g., being careful with gamification because YSGM experience substantial screen time compared to their peers). We conclude that a community-engaged, YSGM-centered approach to TBI development and implementation is paramount to ethically preventing and treating STIs and emerging infections with innovative technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cory J. Cascalheira
- Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Tyler H. Pugh
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chenglin Hong
- Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michelle Birkett
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Ian W. Holloway
- Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Comulada WS, Rotheram-Borus MJ, Arnold EM, Norwood P, Lee SJ, Ocasio MA, Flynn R, Nielsen K, Bolan R, Klausner J, Swendeman D. Using Machine Learning to Identify Predictors of Sexually Transmitted Infections Over Time Among Young People Living With or at Risk for HIV Who Participated in ATN Protocols 147, 148, and 149. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:739-745. [PMID: 37643402 PMCID: PMC10592122 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among youth aged 12 to 24 years have doubled in the last 13 years, accounting for 50% of STIs nationally. We need to identify predictors of STI among youth in urban HIV epicenters. METHODS Sexual and gender minority (gay, bisexual, transgender, gender-diverse) and other youth with multiple life stressors (homelessness, incarceration, substance use, mental health disorders) were recruited from 13 sites in Los Angeles and New Orleans (N = 1482). Self-reports and rapid diagnostic tests for STI, HIV, and drug use were conducted at 4-month intervals for up to 24 months. Machine learning was used to identify predictors of time until new STI (including a new HIV diagnosis). RESULTS At recruitment, 23.9% of youth had a current or past STI. Over 24 months, 19.3% tested positive for a new STI. Heterosexual males had the lowest STI rate (12%); African American youth were 23% more likely to acquire an STI compared with peers of other ethnicities. Time to STI was best predicted by attending group sex venues or parties, moderate but not high dating app use, and past STI and HIV seropositive status. CONCLUSIONS Sexually transmitted infections are concentrated among a subset of young people at highest risk. The best predictors of youth's risk are their sexual environments and networks. Machine learning will allow the next generation of research on predictive patterns of risk to be more robust.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Scott Comulada
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Mary Jane Rotheram-Borus
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Peter Norwood
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Sung-Jae Lee
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Manuel A. Ocasio
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
| | - Risa Flynn
- Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Karin Nielsen
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Jeffrey Klausner
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern CA
| | - Dallas Swendeman
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Adolescent Medicine Trials Network (ATN) CARES Team
- Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
- School of Public Health, Portland State University, Portland, OR
- Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
- Friends Research Institute Inc, Los Angeles, CA
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11
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Pyra M, Kline J, Taylor O, Rusie L, Schafer T, Motley D, Johnson AK. Changes in HIV Prevention and Sexual Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:143-150. [PMID: 37256682 PMCID: PMC10524977 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND STI and HIV services and infection rates were affected during the COVID-19 pandemic, because of changes in access to health care and individual behavior. Understanding how individuals made decisions around prevention and sexual activities during different phases of the pandemic is useful to addressing the rising rates of STIs and HIV. SETTING Federally-qualified health center focused on sexual and gender minority health, Chicago IL, 2021. METHODS Patients with a history of PrEP use who were contacted by the PrEP retention team as part of standard care were invited to complete an online survey. A subset of survey participants were then contacted to complete one-on-one interviews. Participants were asked about two distinct periods: November 2020 to January 2021 and February to June 2021. RESULTS From the 356 survey participants (mostly young, insured, and experienced with PrEP), more than half maintained their number of sex partners during the early pandemic and most also maintained PrEP use; during the later pandemic; most reported more or the same number of sex partners and almost all maintained PrEP use. From interviews, we identified diverse and changing experiences regarding sexual practices throughout the pandemic; whereas many participants changed PrEP use in accordance with sexual practices, many others maintained PrEP use as a habit. COVID-19 prevention was also a factor in sexual activities, particularly prevaccination. CONCLUSION Many PrEP users try to align their HIV prevention with their sexual exposures and establish PrEP as a long-term habit. Removing financial and access barriers is important to improve PrEP use and STI testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pyra
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health & Well Being, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - J Kline
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
| | - O Taylor
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
| | - L Rusie
- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, IL
| | | | - D Motley
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - A K Johnson
- The Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; and
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
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12
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D’Angelo AB, Zohra F, Westmoreland DA, Grov C. Changes in Health Insurance During COVID-19 Among a U.S. National Cohort of Cisgender Gay and Bisexual Men and Transgender Individuals. ANNALS OF LGBTQ PUBLIC AND POPULATION HEALTH 2023; 4:232-250. [PMID: 38106648 PMCID: PMC10720735 DOI: 10.1891/lgbtq-2022-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The extant data suggest that LGBT communities were disproportionately impacted by the economic ramifications of the pandemic and were more likely to report being uninsured throughout the first two years of the pandemic. Additionally, these groups are at heightened vulnerability for several health conditions that require insurance to manage or prevent. Thus, there is a need to assess changes in pandemic-era insurance coverage among these populations. This study uses data collected as part of the Together 5,000 study, a U.S. national, internet-based cohort study of cisgender men, trans men, and trans women who have sex with men. We analyze insurance data across three different assessments between 2019 and 2021, exploring changes in insurance coverage and type. Among our sample, 6.4% lost their insurance in 2020 because of the pandemic. Insurance loss was associated with living in a state that had not expanded Medicaid, race/ethnicity, employment status, and income. Among those who lost their insurance in early 2020, most (59.2%) reported gaining insurance by 2021, with those living in non-expanded states less likely to gain insurance. Finally, those who were uninsured prior to the pandemic were less likely to report gaining insurance by 2021, when compared to those uninsured as a result of the pandemic. This suggests that there are uninsured cisgender gay and bisexual men and transgender individuals that continue to go unreached by policies to assuage uninsurance. Further policy intervention is needed to address uninsurance among LGBT individuals, which has important implications for addressing health disparities among these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa B. D’Angelo
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | - Fatima Zohra
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
| | - Drew A. Westmoreland
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY
- CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY
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13
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Tran NK, Lunn MR, Schulkey CE, Tesfaye S, Nambiar S, Chatterjee S, Kozlowski D, Lozano P, Randal FT, Mo Y, Qi S, Hundertmark E, Eastburn C, Pho AT, Dastur Z, Lubensky ME, Flentje A, Obedin-Maliver J. Prevalence of 12 Common Health Conditions in Sexual and Gender Minority Participants in the All of Us Research Program. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2324969. [PMID: 37523187 PMCID: PMC10391317 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.24969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Limited data describe the health status of sexual or gender minority (SGM) people due to inaccurate and inconsistent ascertainment of gender identity, sex assigned at birth, and sexual orientation. Objective To evaluate whether the prevalence of 12 health conditions is higher among SGM adults in the All of Us Research Program data compared with cisgender heterosexual (non-SGM) people. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study used data from a multidisciplinary research consortium, the All of Us Research Program, that links participant-reported survey information to electronic health records (EHR) and physical measurements. In total, 372 082 US adults recruited and enrolled at an All of Us health care provider organization or by directly visiting the enrollment website from May 31, 2017, to January 1, 2022, and were assessed for study eligibility. Exposures Self-identified gender identity and sexual orientation group. Main Outcomes and Measures Twelve health conditions were evaluated: 11 using EHR data and 1, body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), using participants' physical measurements. Logistic regression (adjusting for age, income, and employment, enrollment year, and US Census division) was used to obtain adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for the associations between each SGM group and health condition compared with a non-SGM reference group. Results The analytic sample included 346 868 participants (median [IQR] age, 55 [39-68] years; 30 763 [8.9%] self-identified as SGM). Among participants with available BMI (80.2%) and EHR data (69.4%), SGM groups had higher odds of anxiety, depression, HIV diagnosis, and tobacco use disorder but lower odds of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Estimated associations for asthma (AOR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.24-0.63] for gender diverse people assigned male at birth; AOR, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.38-0.69] for transgender women), a BMI of 25 or higher (AOR, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.38-1.96] for transgender men), cancer (AOR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.07-1.23] for cisgender sexual minority men; AOR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.81-0.95] for cisgender sexual minority women), and substance use disorder (AOR, 0.35 [95% CI, 0.24-0.52] for gender diverse people assigned female at birth; AOR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.49-0.87] for transgender men) varied substantially across SGM groups compared with non-SGM groups. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional analysis of data from the All of Us Research Program, SGM participants experienced health inequities that varied by group and condition. The All of Us Research Program can be a valuable resource for conducting health research focused on SGM people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen K Tran
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Mitchell R Lunn
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Claire E Schulkey
- All of Us Research Program, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | - Paula Lozano
- Center for Asian Health Equity, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Asian Health Coalition, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Fornessa T Randal
- Center for Asian Health Equity, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Asian Health Coalition, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yicklun Mo
- Center for Asian Health Equity, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Asian Health Coalition, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Siya Qi
- Center for Asian Health Equity, The University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
- Asian Health Coalition, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ell Hundertmark
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Division of Gynecology and Gynecologic Specialties, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Chloe Eastburn
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Anthony T Pho
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Zubin Dastur
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Division of Gynecology and Gynecologic Specialties, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Micah E Lubensky
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Annesa Flentje
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Juno Obedin-Maliver
- The PRIDE Study/PRIDEnet, Departments of Medicine and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Division of Gynecology and Gynecologic Specialties, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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14
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Wolfe HL, Hughto JMW, Quint M, Hashemi L, Hughes LD. Hepatitis C Virus Testing and Care Cascade Among Transgender and Gender Diverse Individuals. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:695-703. [PMID: 36759228 PMCID: PMC10121731 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence among transgender and gender-diverse individuals ranges from 1.8% to 15.7% versus 1% in the general population. Previous HCV studies inclusive of transgender and gender-diverse individuals primarily rely on convenience-based sampling methods or are geographically restricted. The purpose of this study is to compare the prevalence of HCV diagnoses, testing, and care engagement between transgender and gender-diverse and cisgender individuals. METHODS Using Optum's de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart Database, in 2022, the unadjusted prevalence of HCV testing among all adults and people who inject drugs from January 2001 to December 2019 was measured. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare the adjusted odds of HCV diagnoses and care engagement by gender subgroup. RESULTS The overall unadjusted frequency of HCV diagnoses among transgender and gender-diverse individuals was approximately 3 times that of cisgender individuals (1.06% vs 0.38%, p<0.001), including among people who inject drugs (6.36% vs 2.36%, p=0.007). Compared with cisgender women, transfeminine/nonbinary individuals had over 5 times the adjusted odds of a HCV diagnosis and approximately 3.5 times the odds of being tested for HCV. In addition, compared with cisgender women, transfeminine/nonbinary individuals had significantly increased odds of having a HCV‒related procedure (e.g., abdominal ultrasounds, liver biopsies, Fibroscans). Cisgender men had significantly increased odds of receiving HCV medication compared with cisgender women. CONCLUSIONS Although testing was higher among transgender and gender-diverse individuals, the higher overall frequency of HCV diagnoses among transgender and gender-diverse than among cisgender individuals signals persistent health disparities. Interventions are warranted to prevent HCV and increase ongoing testing and treatment uptake among transgender and gender-diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hill L Wolfe
- Department of Health Law, Policy & Management, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachussetts.
| | - Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, Massachussetts
| | - Meg Quint
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachussetts
| | - Leila Hashemi
- Division of Primary Care, Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Landon D Hughes
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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15
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Kardashian A, Serper M, Terrault N, Nephew LD. Health disparities in chronic liver disease. Hepatology 2023; 77:1382-1403. [PMID: 35993341 PMCID: PMC10026975 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The syndemic of hazardous alcohol consumption, opioid use, and obesity has led to important changes in liver disease epidemiology that have exacerbated health disparities. Health disparities occur when plausibly avoidable health differences are experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. Highlighting health disparities, their sources, and consequences in chronic liver disease is fundamental to improving liver health outcomes. There have been large increases in alcohol use disorder in women, racial and ethnic minorities, and those experiencing poverty in the context of poor access to alcohol treatment, leading to increasing rates of alcohol-associated liver diseases. Rising rates of NAFLD and associated fibrosis have been observed in Hispanic persons, women aged > 50, and individuals experiencing food insecurity. Access to viral hepatitis screening and linkage to treatment are suboptimal for racial and ethnic minorities and individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, resulting in greater liver-related mortality and later-stage diagnoses of HCC. Data from more diverse cohorts on autoimmune and cholestatic liver diseases are lacking, supporting the need to study the contemporary epidemiology of these disorders in greater detail. Herein, we review the existing literature on racial and ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic disparities in chronic liver diseases using a social determinants of health framework to better understand how social and structural factors cause health disparities and affect chronic liver disease outcomes. We also propose potential solutions to eliminate disparities, outlining health-policy, health-system, community, and individual solutions to promote equity and improve health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ani Kardashian
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Norah Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lauren D. Nephew
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Parekh T, Gimm G, Kitsantas P. Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women of Reproductive Age by Disability Type. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:393-404. [PMID: 36528453 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in women of reproductive age by disability type and examine the association between disability types, participant characteristics, and the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). METHODS Pooled data from 2015 to 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were analyzed in 2022. The analytic sample included 90,233 women of reproductive age (18-49 years). Disability was defined as having any sensory, cognitive, physical, or ≥2 disabilities.. A total of 15% of women reported having a disability. Descriptive analyses were used to estimate the prevalence of STI, and logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the association of disability type and other participant characteristics with the odds of having STIs. RESULTS The prevalence of STIs was more than twice as high for women of reproductive age with cognitive disabilities (6.8%) or ≥2 disabilities (6.7%) as for those without disabilities (2.7%). Women with sensory disabilities (AOR=1.47; 95% CI=1.17, 1.85), cognitive disabilities (AOR=1.89; 95% CI=1.65, 2.17), or ≥2 disabilities (AOR=1.78; 95% CI=1.49, 2.14) had greater odds of STIs than those without disabilities. Bisexual women had higher odds (AOR=1.31; 95% CI=1.14, 1.50) of STIs than straight women, whereas lesbian/gay women had lower odds (AOR=0.41; 95% CI=0.27, 0.63). The odds of STIs were higher among non-Hispanic Blacks (AOR=1.42; 95% CI=1.24, 1.63) and lower among Asian women (AOR=0.62; 95% CI=0.43, 0.90) than among non-Hispanic Whites. The odds of STIs were also greater among participants having any alcohol, cannabis, or illicit drug use. CONCLUSIONS Women of reproductive age with disabilities have a higher prevalence of sexually transmitted infections. In addition to disability type, the odds of sexually transmitted infections varied by race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, and substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarang Parekh
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.
| | - Gilbert Gimm
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
| | - Panagiota Kitsantas
- Department of Health Administration and Policy, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
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Results from an LGBTQ+ Community Health Needs Assessment in Nassau and Suffolk Counties of New York State. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:855-868. [PMID: 36780090 PMCID: PMC9923637 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-022-01069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
LGBTQ+ individuals experience health care disparities and difficulty accessing affirming care. Little is known regarding the health and experiences among subpopulations of specific sexual orientations and gender identities (SOGI). We implemented the first LGBTQ + health needs assessment survey in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, New York, to assess individuals' health care experiences, behaviors, access to care, and health care needs. The sample (N = 1150) consisted of many SOGI subgroups. Greater than 60% of respondents reported symptoms of chronic depression; over one third reported disrespectful health care experiences; and two thirds experienced verbal harassment. Bisexual/bicurious, pansexual, queer, gender nonconforming and transgender individuals experienced highest rates of mental health concerns and difficulty accessing care. Behavioral health concerns were also high among Black, multiracial, Hispanic, Asian, young adult, and lower-income respondents. Gaining an understanding of unique differences among LGBTQ+ subgroups can guide implementation of services targeting specific subpopulations to improve access to care and reduce disparities.
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Carvalho BJA, da Cruz-Ferreira AM. Knowledge and Risk Behaviors Regarding Human Immunodeficiency Virus Transmission among Portuguese Healthcare Students. Korean J Fam Med 2023; 44:35-43. [PMID: 36709959 PMCID: PMC9887453 DOI: 10.4082/kjfm.22.0012] [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: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the agent responsible for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, remains a worldwide public health problem. Therefore, this study aimed to assess Portuguese healthcare students' knowledge of HIV, identify risk behaviors for HIV transmission, and assess the frequency of HIV testing and its dissemination by general practitioners. METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an anonymous questionnaire published online. The questionnaire was administered to Portuguese healthcare students who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study after clarifying its objectives and procedures. RESULTS Most students were aware of the three main HIV transmission routes; however, 66.3% were unaware of the level A recommendation for HIV screening in adolescents and adults. In addition, 59.6% of the students were never informed by their general practitioner about HIV screening tests or risk behaviors for HIV transmission. Of the sample, 78.9% had never been tested for HIV infection. Of the 74.6% of sexually active students, 82.0% had or had already had unprotected sex (without a condom). Men showed riskier sexual behaviors than women. None of the inquiries reported intravenous drug use, and most students (69.9%) never shared personal objects. CONCLUSION General practitioners and awareness campaigns need to alert and disseminate HIV screening tests. Sexual health and risk behaviors should be addressed more frequently in schools to educate this population because prevention is the best strategy against HIV transmission/contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - António Miguel da Cruz-Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal,Family Health Unit, USF Norton de Matos, Coimbra, Portugal,Corresponding Author: António Miguel da Cruz-Ferreira https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9970-5259
Tel: +351-239-923-302, Fax: +351-239-923-403, E-mail:
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19
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Assaf RD, Cunningham NJ, Adamson PC, Jann JT, Bolan RK. High proportions of rectal and pharyngeal chlamydia and gonorrhoea cases among cisgender men are missed using current CDC screening recommendations. Sex Transm Infect 2022; 98:586-591. [PMID: 35217590 PMCID: PMC9402804 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2021-055361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pharyngeal and rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections are often undiagnosed due to their asymptomatic nature. This study aims to determine (1) the prevalence of CT/NG infections by anatomical site among cisgender men; (2) the proportion of missed CT/NG rectal/pharyngeal infections if urogenital testing alone was performed or screening depended on self-reported behaviour alone; and (3) the predictive probability of self-reported behaviours for rectal CT/NG. METHODS This cross-sectional study used electronic health records collected at a sexual health clinic in Los Angeles from 18 November 2018 until 28 February 2020. The included patients were ≥18 years of age cisgender men who received CT/NG testing at least once during the study period. We calculated the proportion of missed pharyngeal/rectal CT/NG infections if only urogenital testing had been done and if testing was based only on self-reported anal sex. Separately, we ran logistic regressions for predictive probability of self-reported anal sex on CT/NG rectal infections. RESULTS Overall, there were 13 476 unique patients with 26 579 visits. The prevalence of any extragenital CT/NG infection was 37.28%. Over 80% rectal/pharyngeal CT cases and over 65% rectal/pharyngeal NG cases would be missed if urogenital testing alone was performed. Likewise, over 35% rectal CT/NG cases would be missed had testing relied on self-reported sexual behaviours alone. CONCLUSIONS The proportion of missed rectal and pharyngeal CT/NG infections is high. Our data from a sexual health clinic lend support to three-site opt-out testing for cisgender men attending a sexual health/Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ+) specialty clinic regardless of their sexual orientation or reported sexual behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Assaf
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Epidemiology, University of California Los Angeles Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Paul C Adamson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Robert K Bolan
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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20
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Hamdan S, Smyth E, Murphy ME, Grussing ED, Wei M, Guardado R, Wurcel A. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in HIV Testing in People Who Use Drugs Admitted to a Tertiary Care Hospital. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:425-430. [PMID: 36301195 PMCID: PMC9700355 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ending the HIV epidemic requires increased testing, diagnosis, and linkage to care. In the past 10 years, rates of HIV have increased among people with substance use disorder (SUD). HIV testing is recommended during hospitalization. Despite rising rates of infections and recommendations, HIV testing remains suboptimal. This study sought to detect differences in HIV testing by race and ethnicity in people who use drugs (PWUD) admitted to Tufts Medical Center (TuftsMC). This study is a retrospective review of hospitalized PWUD admitted from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2020. PWUD were identified through toxicology results, medication prescribed for SUD, and nursing intake questions. The primary outcome of interest was whether an HIV test was ordered during hospitalization. The indicator of interest was race and ethnicity. Of 13,486 PWUD admitted to TuftsMC, only 10% had an HIV test ordered. Compared with White patients, Black patients [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.59-0.83)] and Hispanic patients [AOR: 0.68, 95% CI (0.55-0.84)] had decreased odds of receiving an HIV test. Our report is the first to show racial and ethnic differences in HIV testing ordering for hospitalized PWUD. Without access to harm reduction tools and expanded systems-based testing strategies, the HIV epidemic will continue and disproportionately impact minoritized communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Hamdan
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emma Smyth
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Mingrui Wei
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rubeen Guardado
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alysse Wurcel
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Trujillo D, Arayasirikul S, Xie H, Sicro S, Meza J, Bella M, Daza E, Torres F, McFarland W, Wilson EC. Disparities in Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing and the Need to Strengthen Comprehensive Sexual Health Services for Trans Women. Transgend Health 2022; 7:230-236. [PMID: 36643058 PMCID: PMC9829146 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2020.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Few studies have examined the importance of improving the sexual health delivery system beyond HIV among trans women. We assessed survey data from the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Transgender Woman (NHBS-Trans) Study in San Francisco to characterize the utilization of sexual health services among HIV-negative trans women and to explore opportunities to improve sexual health services for trans women. Methods Trans women were recruited through respondent-driven sampling from July 2019 to February 2020. The analytic sample was restricted to 116 HIV-negative trans women. We identified trends in data using chi-squared tests to assess significance between sexual risk behavior and the use of preventative sexual health services and built logistic regression models to assess the relationships between sexual risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Results The majority of sample was trans women of color with most identifying as Latinx (42.2%). Over half were low income (56%), and majority had been homeless in past 12 months (62.9%). The prevalence of condomless receptive anal sex was 52.6% with about two-thirds (62.1%) recently having an STI test. Participants who engaged in recent condomless receptive anal sex had more than fivefold greater odds of having a recent STI test compared to their counterparts who did not (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.83-17.11; p=0.003). We also found age- and education-related disparities in STI testing. Conclusion This study characterized the utilization of sexual health services among HIV-negative trans women and identified important disparities in STI testing. We discuss opportunities to strengthen sexual health care delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon Trujillo
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA.,Address correspondence to: Dillon Trujillo, MPH, Trans Research Unit for Equity (TRUE), San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA,
| | - Sean Arayasirikul
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Hui Xie
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sofia Sicro
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Joaquin Meza
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mackie Bella
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Emperatriz Daza
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Francisco Torres
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Willi McFarland
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Erin C. Wilson
- Trans Research Unit for Equity, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco, California, USA.,Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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22
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An Y, Chung C. Korean healthcare providers' attitude, knowledge, and behaviors regarding sexual orientation and gender identity: a cross-sectional survey. KOREAN JOURNAL OF WOMEN HEALTH NURSING 2022; 28:65-73. [PMID: 36312047 PMCID: PMC9334205 DOI: 10.4069/kjwhn.2022.03.11] [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: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated Korean healthcare providers' attitudes toward sexual and gender minority (SGM) persons and their knowledge and behavior concerning the collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity (SO/GI). Methods In this cross-sectional, descriptive study, 137 Korean healthcare providers were recruited through convenience sampling from internet communities for medical professionals. A structured questionnaire was created using Google Surveys. The Mann-Whitney U-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman correlation analysis were performed. Results The sample was mostly women (80.3%) and nurses (83.9%), who overall negative attitudes toward SGM persons and low levels of knowledge and behavior with regard to the collection of patients' SO/GI data. Participants in their 20s, who were religious, and had clinical experiences in treating or providing nursing care for SGM persons had higher levels of knowledge about the collection of SO/GI data. The level of engagement in collecting SO/GI data was higher among women and in their 20s and 30s, unreligious participants, nurses, and those with less than 10 years of clinical experience. Positive attitudes toward SGM persons were associated with higher levels of knowledge, but lower levels of behavior, regarding the collection of SO/GI data. Conclusion It is important to recognize the diversity of patients' SO/GI and to collect the corresponding information. To this end, it is necessary to develop and use a standardized SO/GI form. Healthcare providers should also receive education and training related to the health of SGM persons to resolve health problems that disproportionately affect SGM persons and related health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- YunHui An
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - ChaeWeon Chung
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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23
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Mora RM, Mehta P, Ziltzer R, Samplaski MK. Systematic Review: The Neovaginal Microbiome. Urology 2022; 167:3-12. [PMID: 35276200 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review neovaginal colonization and inflammatory patterns, and factors that may impact this. METHODS A systematic review of the neovaginal microbiome was conducted in concordance with PRISMA guidelines through October 2021. RESULTS Thirteen articles were included, totaling 458 patients. Neovaginal constructions were most commonly performed with penile and scrotal skin grafts, sigmoid segments, and peritoneal grafts. The neovaginal microflora identified were generally polymicrobial and shared similarities with the native tissue. Nine studies identified Lactobacillus: 5/6 for penile skin, 1/3 for sigmoid, 1/1 for peritoneum, and 2/3 for other graft types, suggesting that the neovagina may support Lactobacillus either innately, via rectal migration or oral probiotic supplementation. A polymicrobial, bacterial vaginosis-like environment was found in nine studies. Inflammatory markers were also described: 2/6 for penile skin, 2/3 for sigmoid, 0/1 for peritoneum, and 1/3 for other graft types. Scant data were available on the impact of postsurgical duration, oral hormones, dilating, sexual practices, or douching on the neovaginal microbiome. CONCLUSION Understanding and optimizing the polymicrobial neovaginal microenvironment may improve surgical outcomes, specifically inflammatory, pain, and infectious. Future research should focus on standardizing testing and classification systems, and treating neovaginal dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Mateo Mora
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Preeya Mehta
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Ryan Ziltzer
- University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Mary K Samplaski
- University of Southern California Institute of Urology, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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24
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Santiago-Rodríguez EJ, Rivadeneira NA, DeVost MA, Sarkar U, Hiatt RA. Cancer Risk Behaviors, Cancer Beliefs, and Health Information Seeking Among Under-Represented Populations in San Francisco: Differences by Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Health Equity 2022; 6:669-680. [PMID: 36225663 PMCID: PMC9536334 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2022.0013] [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] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals in the United States are at increased risk of cancer compared to the non-SGM population. Understanding how SGM persons perceive cancer risk and their practices and preferences for accessing health information is key for improving the preventive and health care services they receive. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed data from the San Francisco Health Information National Trends Survey. SGM individuals were identified by self-report. Differences in cancer risk factors, cancer beliefs, and health information seeking were evaluated by SGM status using multivariable logistic regression models. Results Out of 1027 participants, 130 (13%) reported being SGM individuals. Current smoking (odds ratio [OR]=1.93, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.24-3.01) and alcohol use (OR=1.69, 95% CI=1.10-2.59) were more common among SGM persons than among non-SGM persons. No differences by SGM status were observed in health information seeking behaviors, preferences, and cancer beliefs, but SGM participants reported significantly higher odds of feeling frustrated (OR=1.78, 95% CI=1.20-2.64) and having concerns about the quality of the information (OR=1.54, 95% CI=1.03-2.31) during their most recent health information search. Conclusions Intervention efforts aimed at SGM individuals with current use of tobacco and/or alcohol should be expanded. SGM communities also need improved access to consistent, reliable, and accurate sources of health information. Their increased frustration when seeking health information and concerns about the quality of the information they find have important implications for SGM health and care, and the drivers of these differences merit further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo J Santiago-Rodríguez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Natalie A Rivadeneira
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Michelle A DeVost
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Urmimala Sarkar
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA.,Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robert A Hiatt
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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25
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Mujugira A, Kasiita V, Bagaya M, Nakyanzi A, Bambia F, Nampewo O, Kamusiime B, Mugisha J, Nalumansi A, Twesigye CC, Muwonge TR, Baeten JM, Wyatt MA, Tsai AC, Ware NC, Haberer JE. "You are not a man": a multi-method study of trans stigma and risk of HIV and sexually transmitted infections among trans men in Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25860. [PMID: 34965322 PMCID: PMC8716065 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transgender (trans) men in sub-Saharan Africa are a hidden and vulnerable population who may engage in sex work due to socio-economic exclusion and lack of alternative employment opportunities. Little is known about HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk among trans men in this setting. We conducted a multi-method study to characterize HIV/STI risk among trans men in Uganda. METHODS Between January and October 2020, we enrolled 50 trans men into a cross-sectional study through snowball sampling. Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, sexual practices and depression. We conducted 20 qualitative interviews to explore: (1) descriptions of sexual practices that could increase HIV/STI exposure; (2) experiences of accessing public healthcare facilities; (3) perceptions of HIV or STI testing; (4) HIV and STI service delivery; and (5) drug and alcohol use. We used an inductive content analytic approach centring on descriptive category development to analyse the data. RESULTS The median age was 25 years (interquartile range 23-28). The prevalence of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B was 4%, 6% and 8%, respectively. We observed multiple levels of intersecting individual, interpersonal and structural stigmas. (1) Trans men reported transphobic rape motivated by interpersonal stigma that was psychologically traumatizing to the survivor. The resultant stigma and shame hindered healthcare access. (2) Structural stigma and economic vulnerability led to sex work, which increased the risk of HIV and other STIs. Sex work stigma further compounded vulnerability. (3) Individualized stigma led to fear of disclosure of gender identity and HIV status. Concealment was used as a form of stigma management. (4) Multiple levels of stigma hampered access to healthcare services. Preference for trans-friendly care was motivated by stigma avoidance in public facilities. Overall, the lived experiences of trans men highlight the intertwined relationship between stigma and sexual health. CONCLUSIONS In this sample from Uganda, trans men experienced stigma at multiple levels, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive healthcare delivery. Stigma reduction interventions, including provider training, non-discrimination policies, support groups and stigma counselling, could strengthen uptake and utilization of prevention services by this marginalized population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Mujugira
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Vicent Kasiita
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Monica Bagaya
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agnes Nakyanzi
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Felix Bambia
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Oliva Nampewo
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Kamusiime
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jackson Mugisha
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Monique A Wyatt
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Global, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander C Tsai
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Norma C Ware
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jessica E Haberer
- Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Jann JT, Cunningham NJ, Assaf RD, Krysiak RC, Herman D. Evolving Primary Care Utilization of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming People at a Community Sexual Health Clinic. Transgend Health 2021; 7:340-347. [PMID: 36033210 PMCID: PMC9398480 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2021.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Prior research has found that transgender people are less likely to have access to health care and health insurance than their cisgender peers and are more likely to delay seeking care due to systemic discrimination and stigma. To this end, this study seeks to measure transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) clients' primary care utilization and compare them to their cisgender peers. Methods Demographic data and self-reported primary care utilization from 14,372 clients attending a community health center in Los Angeles, CA, from 2018 to 2020 were examined. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression analyses were used to examine correlates of gender identity on primary care utilization metrics-Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations and recent primary care visits. Results Of TGNC clients, 38.0% reported being vaccinated for Hepatitis A compared to 49.2% of cisgender clients (p<0.01) and 42.6% reported being vaccinated for Hepatitis B compared to 51.6% of cisgender clients (p<0.01). TGNC clients had higher odds of engaging with the HPV vaccination series than their cisgender peers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.59). TGNC clients had higher odds of seeing their primary care provider within the preceding 2 years (aOR=1.72, 95% CI 1.01-2.93) compared to non-TGNC clients. Conclusions This study's results found that TGNC clients were more likely to access certain primary care services more often than their cisgender counterparts. Our results support the efficacy of such interventions, such as a health care setting designed to support the health of gender minority people, and see similar, if not greater, primary care engagement in transgender persons compared to their cisgender peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamieson T. Jann
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Ryan D. Assaf
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of California Los Angeles Jonathan and Karin Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robyn C. Krysiak
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David Herman
- Health Services, Los Angeles LGBT Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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27
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Heredia D, Pankey TL, Gonzalez CA. LGBTQ-Affirmative Behavioral Health Services in Primary Care. Prim Care 2021; 48:243-257. [PMID: 33985702 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral health concerns related to sexual and gender minority stress impair functioning and limit quality of life. With greater interest in implementing LGBTQ-affirmative health care practices, primary care providers likely will see larger numbers of LGBTQ individuals presenting with behavioral health concerns. Behavioral health and medical providers may not feel prepared to address the biological, psychological, social, and cultural minority stress factors that have an impact on LGBTQ patients. LGBTQ-affirmative behavioral health providers in primary care can offer a unique service by conducting tailored evaluations and individualized interventions targeting multifactorial influences that cause and perpetuate psychological distress in LGBTQ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagoberto Heredia
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
| | - Tyson L Pankey
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Cesar A Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; Department of Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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28
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Van Gerwen OT, Tamhane A, Westfall AO, Mugavero MJ, Crane HM, Moore RD, Karris M, Christopoulos K, Dombrowski JC, Mayer KH, Marrazzo J, Dionne-Odom J. Prevalence of and Factors Associated With Genital and Extragenital Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Among Transgender Women in HIV Care in the United States, 2005 to 2016. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:410-416. [PMID: 33229965 PMCID: PMC8711312 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on testing rates and prevalence of and factors associated with genital and extragenital chlamydia and gonorrhea among transgender women with HIV in the United States are limited. METHODS This retrospective cohort analysis included transgender women living with HIV enrolled in the US Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems cohort between January 2005 and December 2016 with chlamydia or gonorrhea testing performed in HIV clinic. The primary outcome was a positive test result for chlamydia or gonorrhea at urogenital or extragenital (rectal/pharyngeal) sites. Factors associated with infection were examined using logistic regression and generalized estimating equations to account for multiple tests per woman. RESULTS Among 312 transgender women in HIV care, 252 (81%) were tested for chlamydia or gonorrhea at least once. Annual testing rates were low: 23% to 53% at genital sites and 24% to 47% at extragenital sites. A total of 88 infections were detected, and 22% of women (55/252) had at least one positive test result. Most infections occurred at extragenital sites (80% of chlamydia and 82% of gonorrhea positive test results). Factors associated with infection in an adjusted model were as follows: age 18 to 29 years compared with ≥50 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 7.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8-31.2), CD4 count >350 compared with CD4 <200 (aOR, 5.5; 95% CI, 1.2-25.1), and higher engagement in HIV care (aOR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.0-4.5). CONCLUSIONS Among transgender women living with HIV, testing rates for chlamydia and gonorrhea are inadequate, particularly at extragenital sites where most infections occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T. Van Gerwen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Ashutosh Tamhane
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Andrew O. Westfall
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Michael J. Mugavero
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Heidi M. Crane
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Richard D. Moore
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Maile Karris
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California at San Diego, San Diego
| | - Katerina Christopoulos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Julia C. Dombrowski
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- Fenway Health and Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jeanne Marrazzo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Jodie Dionne-Odom
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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29
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Pittman DM, Rush CR, Litt S, Minges ML, Quayson AA. Psychological Distress as a Primer for Sexual Risk Taking Among Emerging Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:371-384. [PMID: 38595742 PMCID: PMC10903698 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1919950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Emerging adults experience increased morbidity as a result of psychological distress and risky sexual behavior. This study examines how sexual behaviors (e.g., condom use inconsistency and past year STI history) differ among emerging adults with low, moderate, and high psychological distress. Participants are 251,254 emerging adults attending colleges and universities in the United States who participated in the National College Health Assessment (NCHA). Findings suggest a dose-response relationship between psychological distress, condom use inconsistency, and past STI history, such that an association between greater psychological distress and condom use inconsistency and/or past year history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Delishia M. Pittman
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Cassandra Riedy Rush
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sarah Litt
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Melanie L. Minges
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alicia A. Quayson
- Graduate School of Education and Human Development, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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30
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Jackson SS, Han X, Mao Z, Nogueira L, Suneja G, Jemal A, Shiels MS. Cancer Stage, Treatment, and Survival Among Transgender Patients in the United States. J Natl Cancer Inst 2021; 113:1221-1227. [PMID: 33704460 PMCID: PMC8522352 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transgender persons face many barriers to health care that may delay cancer
diagnosis and treatment, possibly resulting in decreased survival. Yet, data
on cancer in this population are limited. We examined cancer stage at
diagnosis, treatment, and survival among transgender patients compared with
cisgender patients in the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Methods Gender (male, female, or transgender) was extracted from medical records from
patients diagnosed with cancer between 2003 and 2016. Logistic regression
estimated odds ratios (ORs) for the associations between gender and stage at
diagnosis and treatment receipt. Cox proportional hazards regression
estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for associations between gender and all-cause
survival. Results Among 11 776 699 persons with cancer in NCDB, 589 were
transgender. Compared with cisgender patients, transgender patients may be
more likely to be diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer (OR =
1.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.95 to 3.28); be less
likely to receive treatment for kidney (OR = 0.19, 95% CI
= 0.08 to 0.47) and pancreas (OR = 0.33, 95% CI
= 0.11 to 0.95) cancers; and have poorer survival after diagnosis
with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (HR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.51
to 3.63), prostate (HR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.06 to
3.45), and bladder cancers (HR = 2.86, 95% CI = 1.36
to 6.00). Similar associations were found for other cancer sites, although
not statistically significant. Conclusion Transgender patients may be diagnosed at later stages, be less likely to
receive treatment, and have worse survival for many cancer types. Small
sample size hampered our ability to detect statistically significant
differences for some cancer sites. There is a need for transgender-focused
cancer research as the population ages and grows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Jackson
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Xuesong Han
- Surveillance and Health Services Research, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ziling Mao
- Surveillance and Health Services Research, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Leticia Nogueira
- Surveillance and Health Services Research, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gita Suneja
- Radiation Oncology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ahmedin Jemal
- Surveillance and Health Services Research, American Cancer Society, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Meredith S Shiels
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
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31
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Yousuf T, Naz M, Roberson CB, Wise SM, Rowland DL. Depression as a Function of Social Support in Transgender and Cisgender Individuals with Sexually Transmitted Diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2462. [PMID: 33802257 PMCID: PMC7967598 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study focused on the relationships among social support, self-esteem, and depression in transgender and cisgender individuals suffering from an incurable or curable sexually transmitted disease. Data were collected from 210 participants with an STI using a semi-structured interview along with culturally adapted standardized instruments. Results indicated no differences between transgender and cisgender groups in depression, although there were large differences in social support and self-esteem. Preliminary regression analysis identified only STI type and duration of STI as significant predictors of depression. However, when moderating roles for both social support and self-esteem were tested, each added to the explained variance and, equally importantly, revealed the effects of both gender status and social support on depression. These findings not only demonstrate how the compound stressors of gender minority status and STI type affect depressive symptoms, but also reveal the critical role that social support can play in mitigating depressive symptoms in those with gender minority status. Findings are interpreted within the context of South/Central Asian cultures that have pre- and post-colonial traditions regarding the social role of non-binary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahira Yousuf
- Institute of Professional Psychology, Bahria University, Karachi 75260, Pakistan; (T.Y.); (M.N.)
| | - Mahwish Naz
- Institute of Professional Psychology, Bahria University, Karachi 75260, Pakistan; (T.Y.); (M.N.)
| | - Candace B. Roberson
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA; (C.B.R.); (S.M.W.)
| | - Suzanna M. Wise
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA; (C.B.R.); (S.M.W.)
| | - David L. Rowland
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA; (C.B.R.); (S.M.W.)
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32
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Torrone E, Grier L, Gadsden-Knowles K, Weinstock H, Stenger M. Collection of Gender Identity in National Case Notifications of Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Primary and Secondary Syphilis, 2018. Sex Transm Dis 2020; 47:645-648. [PMID: 32815904 PMCID: PMC10979126 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In 2018, 21 (41%) jurisdictions had begun reporting gender identity for sexually transmitted disease case notifications sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Among jurisdictions with ≥70% of cases with reported gender identity and sex, 1.0% of primary and secondary syphilis cases were identified as transgender and 71% of transgender women with syphilis were concurrently coded as being male sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Torrone
- CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of STD Prevention
| | - LaZetta Grier
- CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of STD Prevention
| | - Kim Gadsden-Knowles
- CDC Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology and Laboratory Services, Division of Health Informatics and Surveillance, Atlanta, GA
| | - Hillard Weinstock
- CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of STD Prevention
| | - Mark Stenger
- CDC National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Division of STD Prevention
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33
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The needs of LGBTI+ people within student nurse education programmes: A new conceptualisation. Nurse Educ Pract 2020; 47:102828. [PMID: 32697685 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2020.102828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing body of international research evidence highlighting concerns around social exclusion and discrimination, significant health inequalities and health needs, and barriers to accessing effective healthcare for LGBTI + people. However, ways in which the healthcare needs of LGBTI + people can be addressed in student nurse education programmes have yet to be fully explored. The aim of this discussion paper is to present the evidence to support the inclusion of LGBTI + health throughout the nursing curriculum. A new conceptualisation of the full and effective integration of LGBTI + health content across and within the nursing curriculum is proposed. This can be achieved by further developing theory, skills simulation and practice learning opportunities. There is a need to ensure that nursing students are positioned and adequately prepared to effectively address concerns of social justice, reducing health inequalities, and providing responsive person-centred care for LGBTI + health service users.
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34
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Van Gerwen OT, Jani A, Long DM, Austin EL, Musgrove K, Muzny CA. Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Transgender Persons: A Systematic Review. Transgend Health 2020; 5:90-103. [PMID: 32656353 PMCID: PMC7347015 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2019.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Despite reportedly high rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among transgender people, laboratory-proven prevalence of these infections in this population has not been systematically reviewed. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the medical literature involving laboratory-proven HIV and STI diagnoses among transgender people. Methods: A systematic review of the English literature regarding laboratory-proven HIV and/or STI testing in transgender populations within the last 50 years was performed. Preliminary meta-analyses assessing the prevalence of HIV and STIs among both transgender men and transgender women were performed. Given the heterogeneity of included studies, these analyses were difficult to interpret and not included in our results. Results: Our literature review identified 25 studies, representing 11 countries. All of these studies included transgender women, with 9 (36%) including data on transgender men. HIV was the most commonly studied STI, with prevalence ranging from 0% to 49.6% in transgender women and 0% to 8.3% in transgender men. For syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, respectively, prevalence ranged from 1.4% to 50.4%, 2.1% to 19.1%, and 2.7% to 24.7% in transgender women and from 0% to 4.2%, 0% to 10.5%, and 1.2% to 11.1% in transgender men. Site-specific testing practices for gonorrhea and chlamydia were variable. No studies reported prevalence data on trichomoniasis. Conclusion: The literature describing STIs and transgender people primarily focuses on transgender women and HIV. Data involving HIV and STIs among transgender men are lacking. These findings highlight opportunities for the future study of epidemiology of HIV/STIs in transgender men and the relevance of STIs in transgender people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T Van Gerwen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Aditi Jani
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Dustin M Long
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Erika L Austin
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Karen Musgrove
- Magic City Wellness Center, Birmingham AIDS Outreach, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Christina A Muzny
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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35
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High Rates of PrEP Eligibility but Low Rates of PrEP Access Among a National Sample of Transmasculine Individuals. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2020; 82:e1-e7. [PMID: 31232834 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmasculine individuals have been largely ignored in HIV prevention research, and there is a lack of data regarding this population's eligibility for and utilization of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). SETTING National online survey conducted in the United States. METHODS Between May and July 2017, we surveyed 1808 transmasculine individuals (aged 18-60 years; 30% people of color and/or Latinx), asking questions about sexual behavior and receipt of sexual health care, including PrEP. We examined the number of individuals who would meet eligibility criteria for PrEP and then used log-linked Poisson regression with robust variance estimation to examine predictors of PrEP eligibility. RESULTS Almost one-quarter of the sample (n = 439; 24.3%) met one or more criterion for PrEP eligibility. PrEP eligibility did not differ by age, race/ethnicity, education, or binary gender identity. PrEP eligibility was lower among heterosexual-identified and higher income participants, and was higher among participants who were in open relationships and reported substance use. Among PrEP-eligible individuals, 64.9% had received an HIV test in the past year, 33.9% had received PrEP information from a provider, and 10.9% (n = 48) had received a PrEP prescription. PrEP-eligible individuals who had received a PrEP prescription were more likely to have a binary gender identity, identify as gay, and be taking testosterone. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of transmasculine individuals meet PrEP eligibility criteria, but few are receiving adequate PrEP services. Enhanced efforts should be made by providers, programs, and systems to assess HIV-related risk in transmasculine patients and engage them in comprehensive sexual health care.
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36
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Macdonald DW, Grossoehme DH, Mazzola A, Pestian T, Schwartz SB. Oral Sex Knowledge and Experience of Transgender Youth: An Opportunity for Dental Education. J Dent Educ 2020; 84:473-477. [PMID: 32314385 DOI: 10.21815/jde.019.193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that, when compared to their cisgender counterparts, transgender youth exhibit more unsafe sexual behavior that may elevate their risk for sexually transmitted infections. The aim of this study was to better understand what transgender youth know about oral sex, related consequences, and mechanisms of protection and where they obtained this information. The findings can be helpful in preparing oral health providers to play a role in meeting this public health need. The study took place at a U.S. academic pediatric medical center in 2017. Participants were recruited at a Transgender Research Day and during Transgender Clinic sessions. English-speaking transgender adolescents ages 14 to 24 were invited to participate in a previously validated survey about their knowledge and behaviors related to oral sex. Of the 138 transgender youth invited to participate, 57 completed the surveys, for a 41% response rate. Most respondents reported feeling they understood the necessity of protection and consequences of oral sex but did not use protection. Over half of the participants (58%) said they had not had a physician, dentist, or parent speak to them about oral sex. Given the lack of standardized, evidence-based sex education, it is imperative that adolescents, particularly in highly vulnerable populations like transgender youth, receive accurate information about oral sexual contact. Dental schools should prepare future practitioners to address these issues with youth using a culturally competent, evidence-based approach.
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37
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Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals include, but are not limited to, those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ). LGBTQ individuals are considered a marginalized and at-risk population, facing significant health care inequities when compared with heterosexual and cisgendered (ie, "gender-conforming") populations. They are more likely than heterosexual and cisgendered individuals to experience discrimination, bias, and dissatisfaction with the medical system. This article provides a broad overview of systemic inequalities confronting SGM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Arnold
- Spring Street Dermatology, 73 Spring Street, Suite 303, New York, NY 10012, USA; University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nikhil Dhingra
- Spring Street Dermatology, 73 Spring Street, Suite 303, New York, NY 10012, USA; Department of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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38
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Mind the gaps: prescription coverage and HIV incidence among patients receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis from a large federally qualified health center in Los Angeles, California : Mind the Gaps: Cobertura de recetas e incidencia de VIH entre pacientes recibiendo profilaxis pre-exposición de un centro de salud grande y federalmente calificado en Los Ángeles, CA. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2730-2740. [PMID: 30953305 PMCID: PMC6863609 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02493-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a records-based cohort study of patients who initiated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) at a large federally qualified health center in Los Angeles, CA to characterize patterns of PrEP use, identify correlates of PrEP discontinuation, and calculate HIV incidence. Of 3121 individuals initiating PrEP between 2014 and 2017, 42% (n = 1314) were active (i.e., had a current PrEP prescription) in April 2018. HIV incidence was 0.1/100 person-years among active PrEP patients, compared to 2.1/100 person-years among patients who discontinued. Compared to patients accessing PrEP through government programs with no prescription copay, risk of discontinuation was higher among those with private insurance (ARR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.2, 1.7), or no insurance (ARR = 4.5, 95% CI 3.2, 6.4). Sixty-three percent of active PrEP patients had gaps between PrEP prescriptions, averaging one gap per year (median length = 65 days). Increasing access to free or low-cost PrEP can improve PrEP continuity.
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