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Gilada IS, Cassell MM, Laxmeshwar CS, Tharmalingam D, Ouk V, Herath S, Samreth S, Oo N, Wisaksana R, Aryati A, Fung RM, Nieto ML. Leveraging HIV self-testing to achieve the UNAIDS 2025 targets in the South and Southeast Asia region. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27:e26357. [PMID: 39397317 PMCID: PMC11471574 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26357] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The South and Southeast Asia region has the second-highest number of people living with HIV globally. Despite progress in reducing HIV incidence and AIDS-related deaths, the region still has a long way to go in achieving the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 HIV testing, treatment and viral suppression targets. HIV self-testing (HIVST) is recommended by the World Health Organization as an additional approach to HIV testing. This paper provides a commentary on the implementation status, benefits, barriers and recommendations for HIVST implementation in South and Southeast Asia. Additionally, it presents perspectives from HIV testing service experts from 11 countries in the region to put forth recommendations to accelerate the implementation of HIVST in South and Southeast Asia. DISCUSSION There is uneven progress in national HIVST policy development and implementation across the region. HIVST, as an additional testing approach, can help to enhance testing coverage, frequency and demand for follow-up HIV services among key populations. Key factors influencing the implementation and scale-up of HIVST include the degree of awareness of HIVST among general and key populations, the development and implementation of supportive national HIVST policies and the availability of public funding for HIVST. To address barriers and leverage enablers to HIVST implementation, generating evidence on cost-effectiveness and budget impact, developing multisectoral partnerships for market shaping, promoting differentiated and decentralized delivery models, and optimizing linkage to further testing and care are recommended. CONCLUSIONS It is crucial to accelerate the implementation and scale-up of HIVST to differentiate and decentralize the delivery of HIV testing services in South and Southeast Asian countries. Sharing experiences among country experts is vital to foster the adoption of best practices and facilitate the trial-and-error process of HIVST implementation. Such collaborative approaches can help South and Southeast Asian countries attain the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, especially the first 95 on HIV diagnosis, and play a significant role in ending the global AIDS epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Vichea Ouk
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD (NCHADS)Ministry of HealthPhnom PenhCambodia
| | - Sathya Herath
- Unit of Key Population Programs & Program ImplementationNational STD/AIDS Control ProgramColomboSri Lanka
| | - Sovannarith Samreth
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD (NCHADS)Ministry of HealthPhnom PenhCambodia
| | - Nyan Oo
- Medical DepartmentSave the Children InternationalYangonMyanmar
| | - Rudi Wisaksana
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious DiseasesUniversity of PadjadjaranBandungIndonesia
| | - Aryati Aryati
- Department of Clinical PathologyFaculty of Medicine, Universitas AirlanggaSurabayaIndonesia
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Wirtz AL, Page KR, Stevenson M, Guillén JR, Ortíz J, López JJ, Ramírez JF, Quijano C, Vela A, Moreno Y, Rigual F, Case J, Hakim AJ, Hladik W, Spiegel PB. HIV Surveillance and Research for Migrant Populations: Protocol Integrating Respondent-Driven Sampling, Case Finding, and Medicolegal Services for Venezuelans Living in Colombia. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e36026. [PMID: 35258458 PMCID: PMC8941430 DOI: 10.2196/36026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiologic research among migrant populations is limited by logistical, methodological, and ethical challenges, but it is necessary for informing public health and humanitarian programming. OBJECTIVE We describe a methodology to estimate HIV prevalence among Venezuelan migrants in Colombia. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling, a nonprobability sampling method, was selected for attributes of reaching highly networked populations without sampling frames and analytic methods that permit estimation of population parameters. Respondent-driven sampling was modified to permit electronic referral of peers via SMS text messaging and WhatsApp. Participants complete sociobehavioral surveys and rapid HIV and syphilis screening tests with confirmatory testing. HIV treatment is not available for migrants who have entered Colombia through irregular pathways; thus, medicolegal services integrated into posttest counseling provide staff lawyers and legal assistance to participants diagnosed with HIV or syphilis for sustained access to treatment through the national health system. Case finding is integrated into respondent-driven sampling to allow partner referral. This study is implemented by a local community-based organization providing HIV support services and related legal services for Venezuelans in Colombia. RESULTS Data collection was launched in 4 cities in July and August 2021. As of November 2021, 3105 of the target 6100 participants were enrolled, with enrollment expected to end by February/March 2022. CONCLUSIONS Tailored methods that combine community-led efforts with innovations in sampling and linkage to care can aid in advancing health research for migrant and displaced populations. Worldwide trends in displacement and migration underscore the value of improved methods for translation to humanitarian and public health programming. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/36026.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Center for Humanitarian Health, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kathleen R Page
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Center for Humanitarian Health, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Megan Stevenson
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - James Case
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Avi J Hakim
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Wolfgang Hladik
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Paul B Spiegel
- Center for Humanitarian Health, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Wirtz AL, Naing S, Mon SHH, Paing AZ, Mon EK, Thu KH, M Truong J, Jivapong B, Clouse E, Baral SD, Beyrer C. High acceptability of HIV self-testing in a randomized trial among transgender women and men who have sex with men, Myanmar. AIDS Care 2021; 34:421-429. [PMID: 34802339 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.2005763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
HIV self-testing (HIVST) shows promise to improve HIV diagnosis among those seeking privacy and anonymity in HIV testing. This may include sexual and gender diverse populations, who experience disproportionately high burdens of stigma and HIV globally. To inform potential scale-up of HIVST in Myanmar, we implemented a community-led, mixed-methods randomized trial in Yangon. Adult trans-feminine individuals and cisgender men who have sex with men were recruited via respondent-driven sampling. Participants (N = 577) completed a baseline survey and were randomized to community-based HIV testing services (HTS) or HIVST. One-third of participants reported lifetime HIV testing. Over half (59.4%) returned for a second study visit to report their test result and test acceptability, which was lower among HTS-assigned participants compared to those assigned to HIVST (55.6% vs. 63.1%; p = 0.096). Participants reported that both HIVST and HTS were easy to access, test, and interpret/understand the results of their HIV test. Ninety percent of HTS-assigned participants indicated they would test regularly if they could access HIVST. Qualitative participants (N = 20) described that the convenience and privacy afforded by HIVST may increase the availability and coverage of testing. Taken together, these results suggest HIVST is an acceptable, low-barrier complement to community-based HTS for key populations in Myanmar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Soe Naing
- MAHAMATE (Alliance Myanmar), Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Sandra Hsu Hnin Mon
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jasmine M Truong
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Belinda Jivapong
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Emily Clouse
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MA, USA
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Rivera AS, Hernandez R, Mag-usara R, Sy KN, Ulitin AR, O’Dwyer LC, McHugh MC, Jordan N, Hirschhorn LR. Implementation outcomes of HIV self-testing in low- and middle- income countries: A scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250434. [PMID: 33939722 PMCID: PMC8092786 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION HIV self-testing (HIV-ST) is an effective means of improving HIV testing rates. Low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are taking steps to include HIV-ST into their national HIV/AIDS programs but very few reviews have focused on implementation in LMIC. We performed a scoping review to describe and synthesize existing literature on implementation outcomes of HIV-ST in LMIC. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Global Health, Web of Science, and Scopus, supplemented by searches in HIVST.org and other grey literature databases (done 23 September 2020) and included articles if they reported at least one of the following eight implementation outcomes: acceptability, appropriateness, adoption, feasibility, fidelity, cost, penetration, or sustainability. Both quantitative and qualitative results were extracted and synthesized in a narrative manner. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Most (75%) of the 206 included articles focused on implementation in Africa. HIV-ST was found to be acceptable and appropriate, perceived to be convenient and better at maintaining confidentiality than standard testing. The lack of counselling and linkage to care, however, was concerning to stakeholders. Peer and online distribution were found to be effective in improving adoption. The high occurrence of user errors was a common feasibility issue reported by studies, although, diagnostic accuracy remained high. HIV-ST was associated with higher program costs but can still be cost-effective if kit prices remain low and HIV detection improves. Implementation fidelity was not always reported and there were very few studies on, penetration, and sustainability. CONCLUSIONS Evidence supports the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of HIV-ST in the LMIC context. Costs and user error rates are threats to successful implementation. Future research should address equity through measuring penetration and potential barriers to sustainability including distribution, cost, scale-up, and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adovich S. Rivera
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ralph Hernandez
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Regiel Mag-usara
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Karen Nicole Sy
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Allan R. Ulitin
- Institute of Health Policy and Development Studies, National Institutes for Health, Manila, Philippines
| | - Linda C. O’Dwyer
- Galter Health Sciences Library & Learning Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Megan C. McHugh
- Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Neil Jordan
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Hines VA Hospital, Hines, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Lisa R. Hirschhorn
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Institute of Global Health, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
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Wirtz AL, Iyer JR, Brooks D, Hailey‐Fair K, Galai N, Beyrer C, Celentano D, Arrington‐Sanders R, PUSH Study Group. An evaluation of assumptions underlying respondent-driven sampling and the social contexts of sexual and gender minority youth participating in HIV clinical trials in the United States. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25694. [PMID: 33978326 PMCID: PMC8114466 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) has been an effective sampling strategy for HIV research in many settings, but has had limited success among some youth in the United States. We evaluated a modified RDS approach for sampling Black and Latinx sexual and gender minority youth (BLSGMY) and explored how lived experiences and social contexts of BLSGMY youth may impact traditional RDS assumptions. METHODS RDS was implemented in three US cities, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington DC, to engage BLSGMY aged 15 to 24 years in HIV prevention or care intervention trials. RDS was modified to include targeted seed recruitment from venues, Internet and health clinics, and provided options for electronic or paper coupons. Qualitative interviews were conducted among a sub-sample of RDS participants to explore their experiences with RDS. Interviews were coded using RDS assumptions as an analytic framework. RESULTS Between August 2017 and October 2019, 405 participants were enrolled, 1670 coupons were distributed, with 133 returned, yielding a 0.079 return rate. The maximum recruitment depth was four waves among seeds that propagated. Self-reported median network size was 5 (IQR 2 to 10) and reduced to 3 (IQR 1 to 5) when asked how many peers were seen in the past 30 days. Qualitative interviews (n = 27) revealed that small social networks, peer trust and targeted referral of peers with certain characteristics challenged network, random recruitment, and reciprocity assumptions of RDS. HIV stigma and research hesitancy were barriers to participation and peer referral. Other situational factors, such as phone ownership and access to reliable transportation, reportedly created challenges for referred peers to participate in research. CONCLUSIONS Small social networks and varying relationships with peers among BLSGMY challenge assumptions that underlie traditional RDS. Modified RDS approaches, including those that incorporate social media, may support recruitment for community-based research but may challenge assumptions of reciprocal relationships. Research hesitancy and situational barriers are relevant and must be addressed across any sampling method and study design that includes BLSGMY in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L. Wirtz
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Jessica R. Iyer
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Durryle Brooks
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Kimberly Hailey‐Fair
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult MedicineJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - David Celentano
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
| | - Renata Arrington‐Sanders
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMDUSA
- Division of Adolescent and Young Adult MedicineJohns Hopkins School of MedicineBaltimoreMDUSA
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Wirtz AL, Iyer J, Brooks D, Hailey-Fair K, Galai N, Beyrer C, Celentano D. An evaluation of assumptions underlying respondent-driven sampling and the social contexts of sexual and gender minority youth participating in HIV clinical trials in the United States. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2020. [PMID: 33173927 PMCID: PMC7654923 DOI: 10.1101/2020.11.02.20222489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Respondent-driven sampling has been an effective sampling strategy for HIV research in many settings, but has had limited success among some youth in the United States. We evaluated a modified RDS approach for sampling Black and Latinx sexual and gender minority youth (BLSGMY) and evaluates how lived experiences and social contexts of BLSGMY youth may impact traditional RDS assumptions. Methods: RDS was implemented in three cities to engage BLSGMY in HIV prevention or care intervention trials. RDS was modified to include targeted seed recruitment from venues, internet, and health clinics, and provided options for electronic or paper coupons. Qualitative interviews were conducted among a sub-sample of RDS participants to explore their experiences with RDS. Interviews were coded using RDS assumptions as an analytic framework. Results: Between August 2017 and October 2019, 405 participants were enrolled, 1,670 coupons were distributed, with 133 returned, yielding a 0.079 return rate. The maximum recruitment depth was 4 waves among seeds that propagated. Self-reported median network size was 5 (IQR 2–10) and reduced to 3 (IQR 1–5) when asked how many peers were seen in the past 30 days. Qualitative interviews (n=27) revealed that small social networks, peer trust, and targeted referral of peers with certain characteristics challenged network, random recruitment, and reciprocity assumptions of RDS. HIV stigma and research hesitancy were barriers to participation and peer referral. Conclusions: Small social networks and varying relationships with peers among BLSGMY challenge assumptions that underlie traditional RDS. Modified RDS approaches, including those that incorporate social media, may support recruitment for community-based research but may challenge assumptions of reciprocal relationships. Research hesitancy and situational barriers must be addressed in recruitment and study designs.
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Frola CE, Zalazar V, Cardozo N, Vázquez ML, Arístegui I, Lucas M, Gun A, Cahn P, Sued O. Home-based HIV testing: Using different strategies among transgender women in Argentina. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230429. [PMID: 32191761 PMCID: PMC7081978 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Argentina, HIV prevalence among transgender women (TGW) has been reported at 34%. The stigma is one of the most important factors limiting their access to healthcare services. The aims of this study were to compare different HIV testing methodologies, to determine the factors associated with HIV diagnosis and to determine the feasibility of a home-based HIV testing service for TGW. METHODS A multidisciplinary team performed home-based HIV testing interventions in four cities of Argentina. Participants self-identified as TGW, older than 14 years and with a negative or unknown HIV status. Blood samples were screened by two rapid tests (RT), one based on antibodies (Determine™ HIV-1/2) and the other on antigen and antibodies (Determine™ HIV-1/2 Combo), and the subsequent blood processing via 4th generation ELISA (VIDAS HIV DUO). All reactive samples were confirmed with a viral load (VL). We compared the results of both RT with the ELISA. Samples were pooled in groups of 6 and a VL (Abbott Real Time) performed to identify acute HIV infections. Factors associated with HIV infection were evaluated with multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 260 TGW were tested, 51 tested positive (HIV prevalence 19.6%). There were no discordant results between both RTs nor between RTs and 4th generation ELISA, therefore the correlation was 100%. The VL identified 2 additional positive samples. The final analytic sample for positive cases consisted of 53 TGW. In the multivariate analysis, factors associated with a positive HIV result were history of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and not being previously tested for HIV. TGW tested for the first time were at 4 times greater risk of being HIV positive compared to those that were tested previously. CONCLUSIONS A multidisciplinary home-based HIV testing service among TGW is feasible and effective to detect cases of HIV infection. The testing algorithm should start with an RT followed by molecular diagnosis. The history of STIs and never having been tested for HIV were the factors associated with HIV-positive results and should determine efforts to reach this population. Home-based testing reaches individuals that were not tested before and who have more risk of acquiring HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia E. Frola
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Juan A. Fernández Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Virginia Zalazar
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nadir Cardozo
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Association of Transvestites, Transsexuals, and Transgenders of Argentina (A.T.T.T.A.), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L. Vázquez
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Inés Arístegui
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mar Lucas
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Gun
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pedro Cahn
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Omar Sued
- Clinical Research Department, Fundación Huésped, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Wirtz AL, Poteat T, Radix A, Althoff KN, Cannon CM, Wawrzyniak AJ, Cooney E, Mayer KH, Beyrer C, Rodriguez AE, Reisner SL. American Cohort to Study HIV Acquisition Among Transgender Women in High-Risk Areas (The LITE Study): Protocol for a Multisite Prospective Cohort Study in the Eastern and Southern United States. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e14704. [PMID: 31584005 PMCID: PMC6802485 DOI: 10.2196/14704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, transgender women (TW) are disproportionately burdened by HIV infection. Cohort studies are needed to evaluate factors driving HIV acquisition among TW over time. These will require implementation strategies that are acceptable to the TW community and feasible to implement. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the rate and correlates of HIV acquisition and other health outcomes among TW in eastern and southern United States. METHODS LITE is a multisite prospective cohort in 6 eastern and southern US cities, which will be followed across 24 months of technology-enhanced biobehavioral follow-up. Adult TW, regardless of HIV status, are recruited via convenience sampling (eg, peer referrals, social media, and dating apps). Participants are enrolled in a baseline study visit, complete a sociobehavioral survey, and test for HIV and sexually transmitted infections. Participants who are not living with HIV at baseline are offered enrollment into the cohort (N=1100); follow-up assessments occur quarterly. RESULTS Cohort assembly was informed by synchronous Web-based focus group discussions with TW (n=41) and by continuing engagement with community advisory board members from each site. Enrollment launched in March 2018. The study is underway in the Atlanta; Baltimore; Boston; Miami; New York City; and Washington, DC, metro areas. As of March 2019, 795 TW completed a baseline visit (mean age 35 years). The majority of the participants are racial/ethnic minorities, with 45% of the TW identifying as black and 28% of the TW identifying as Hispanic/Latinx. More than one-quarter (28%) of the TW are living with HIV infection (laboratory-confirmed). Online recruitment methods support engagement with TW, although peer referral and referral through trusted health facilities and organizations remain most effective. CONCLUSIONS This study is responsive to increasing research interest in technology-enhanced methods for cohort research, particularly for hard-to-reach populations. Importantly, the diversity of literacy, technology use, and overall socioeconomic situations in this sample of TW highlights the need to leverage technology to permit a flexible, adaptive methodology that enhances engagement of potential participants living in marginalized contexts while still ensuring rigorous and sound study design. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/14704.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tonia Poteat
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Keri N Althoff
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Andrew J Wawrzyniak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Erin Cooney
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Allan E Rodriguez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sari L Reisner
- The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, United States
- Division of General Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Loya-Montiel MI, Davis DA, Aguilar-Martínez JM, Paz Bailey OA, Morales-Miranda S, Alvis-Estrada JP, Northbrook S, Barrington C. Making the Link: A Pilot Health Navigation Intervention to Improve Timely Linkage to Care for Men Who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women Recently Diagnosed with HIV in Guatemala City. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:900-907. [PMID: 30377979 PMCID: PMC6691504 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-018-2328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We piloted a health navigation strategy to promote timely linkage to care among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) recently diagnosed with HIV in Guatemala City. We used a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data collected during clinic visits and qualitative data from in-depth interviews, to characterize acceptability of navigation and time to linkage, defined as having the first clinical care visit. Out of 54 participants who enrolled in the pilot (n = 52 MSM; n = 2 TW), 50 (92.6%) accepted navigation and all were linked to care. Median time to linkage was 3 days (Interquartile Range 2-5 days). In qualitative interviews, participants expressed feeling scared and alone following their diagnosis and appreciated the support of a navigator, especially when they did not feel they could access their existing support networks. Future research and evaluation should continue to assess how to best use health navigation to support key populations recently diagnosed with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Itzel Loya-Montiel
- HIV Central America Regional Program, Center for Health Studies, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Dirk A Davis
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jose Manuel Aguilar-Martínez
- HIV Central America Regional Program, Center for Health Studies, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | | | - Juan Pablo Alvis-Estrada
- HIV Central America Regional Program, Center for Health Studies, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Sanny Northbrook
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Central America Region, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Clare Barrington
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Veronese V, Clouse E, Wirtz AL, Thu KH, Naing S, Baral SD, Stoové M, Beyrer C. "We are not gays… don't tell me those things": engaging 'hidden' men who have sex with men and transgender women in HIV prevention in Myanmar. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:63. [PMID: 30642303 PMCID: PMC6332568 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Myanmar, HIV is concentrated among key populations, yet less than half of the estimated 250,000 men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) report recent HIV testing. As many as 50% of MSM and TW may conceal their same-sex preferences and behaviors, yet little is known about the barriers faced by those who are locally regarded as ‘hidden’ – that is, MSM who do not disclose same-sex preferences and/or identify as gay. This study explored specific barriers to accessing HIV testing and other prevention services among ‘hidden’ MSM to inform appropriate models of service delivery. Methods In-depth interviews with MSM (n = 12) and TW (n = 13) and focus group discussions (FGD) with MSM and TW community members, leaders and key informants (n = 35) were undertaken in Yangon during June – September 2015. Participants were recruited by word-of-mouth by trained peer data collectors. Responses to questions from semi-structured guides were transcribed and coded using Atlas Ti. Codes were based on key domains in the guides and applied to transcripts to identify and analyze emerging themes. Results Fear of stigma and discrimination and the need to meet gender expectations were key reasons for non-disclosure of same-sex preferences and behaviors; this typically manifested as avoidance of other MSM and settings in which sexual identity might be implicated. These concerns influenced preference and interaction with HIV services, with many avoiding MSM-specific services or eschewing HIV testing services entirely. The difficulties of engaging hidden MSM in HIV prevention was strongly corroborated by service providers. Conclusion Hidden MSM face multiple barriers to HIV testing and prevention. Strategies cognizant of concerns for anonymity and privacy, such as One-Stop Shop services and online-based health promotion, can discretely provide services appropriate for hidden MSM. Enhanced capacity of peer-service providers and mainstream health staff to identify and respond to the psychosocial challenges reported by hidden MSM in this study may further encourage service engagement. Overarching strategies to strengthen the enabling environment, such as legal reform and LGBTI community mobilisation, can lessen stigma and discrimination and increase hidden MSM’s comfort and willingness to discuss same-sex behavior and access appropriate services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Veronese
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia. .,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Emily Clouse
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Andrea L Wirtz
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | | | | | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Mark Stoové
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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11
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Harichund C, Karim QA, Kunene P, Simelane S, Moshabela M. HIV self-testing as part of a differentiated HIV testing approach: exploring urban and rural adult experiences from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa using a cross-over study design. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:53. [PMID: 30634943 PMCID: PMC6329077 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-6366-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal HIV testing rates through available testing approaches such as HIV counselling and testing have directed research efforts toward recognizing the potential of HIV self-testing as an additional testing method. However, HIV self-testing is not readily available within HIV testing facilities and data on how HIV self-testing and HIV counselling and testing will co-exist within HIV testing facilities is limited. Therefore, this study sought to fill this knowledge gap. METHODS Forty consenting adults were exposed to HIV counselling and testing and HIV self-testing using a cross-over study design between February 2016 and February 2017 resulting in 80 (20,20) interviews. Participants were randomly exposed to HIV counselling and testing first, followed by self-testing, or HIV self-testing first, followed by counselling and testing. In-depth interviews were conducted at baseline, and after each testing exposure, using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were transcribed and translated prior to doing the framework analysis. RESULTS Support through counselling played a central role in the HIV testing process for some participants who desired support or were not confident to perform unsupervised HIV self-testing. The complementary relationship between HIV self-testing and HIV counselling and testing requires a combination of benefits such as availability of counselling, confidence, convenience and confidentiality (4 Cs) derived from HIV self-testing and HIV counselling and testing. Implementation of the 4 Cs will depend on the availability of unsupervised HIV self-testing and/or supervised self-testing with support from HIV counselling and testing. CONCLUSIONS As treatment and prevention efforts expand, the reasons for and frequency of testing is changing and there is a need to develop differentiated models for providing HIV testing services to meet client's needs. HIV self-testing is an important addition to enhance HIV testing efforts and should be offered in combination with HCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlene Harichund
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, USA
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Pinky Kunene
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Mosa Moshabela
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
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12
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Khanna AS, Goodreau SM, Michaels S, Schneider JA. Using Partially-Observed Facebook Networks to Develop a Peer-Based HIV Prevention Intervention: Case Study. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e11652. [PMID: 30217793 PMCID: PMC6231846 DOI: 10.2196/11652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This is a case study from an HIV prevention project among young black men who have sex with men. Individual-level prevention interventions have had limited success among young black men who have sex with men, a population that is disproportionately affected by HIV; peer network–based interventions are a promising alternative. Facebook is an attractive digital platform because it enables broad characterization of social networks. There are, however, several challenges in using Facebook data for peer interventions, including the large size of Facebook networks, difficulty in assessing appropriate methods to identify candidate peer change agents, boundary specification issues, and partial observation of social network data. Objective This study aimed to explore methodological challenges in using social Facebook networks to design peer network–based interventions for HIV prevention and present techniques to overcome these challenges. Methods Our sample included 298 uConnect study respondents who answered a bio-behavioral survey in person and whose Facebook friend lists were downloaded (2013-2014). The study participants had over 180,000 total Facebook friends who were not involved in the study (nonrespondents). We did not observe friendships between these nonrespondents. Given the large number of nonrespondents whose networks were partially observed, a relational boundary was specified to select nonrespondents who were well connected to the study respondents and who may be more likely to influence the health behaviors of young black men who have sex with men. A stochastic model-based imputation technique, derived from the exponential random graph models, was applied to simulate 100 networks where unobserved friendships between nonrespondents were imputed. To identify peer change agents, the eigenvector centrality and keyplayer positive algorithms were used; both algorithms are suitable for identifying individuals in key network positions for information diffusion. For both algorithms, we assessed the sensitivity of identified peer change agents to the imputation model, the stability of identified peer change agents across the imputed networks, and the effect of the boundary specification on the identification of peer change agents. Results All respondents and 78.9% (183/232) of nonrespondents selected as peer change agents by eigenvector on the imputed networks were also selected as peer change agents on the observed networks. For keyplayer, the agreement was much lower; 42.7% (47/110) and 35.3% (110/312) of respondent and nonrespondent peer change agents, respectively, selected on the imputed networks were also selected on the observed network. Eigenvector also produced a stable set of peer change agents across the 100 imputed networks and was much less sensitive to the specified relational boundary. Conclusions Although we do not have a gold standard indicating which algorithm produces the most optimal set of peer change agents, the lower sensitivity of eigenvector centrality to key assumptions leads us to conclude that it may be preferable. The methods we employed to address the challenges in using Facebook networks may prove timely, given the rapidly increasing interest in using online social networks to improve population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Subhash Khanna
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Steven Michael Goodreau
- Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.,Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | - John Alexis Schneider
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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13
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New HIV testing technologies in the context of a concentrated epidemic and evolving HIV prevention: qualitative research on HIV self-testing among men who have sex with men and transgender women in Yangon, Myanmar. J Int AIDS Soc 2017; 20:21796. [PMID: 28453242 PMCID: PMC5515059 DOI: 10.7448/ias.20.01.21796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Global effort to increase early diagnosis and engagement in HIV care emphasize the importance of developing novel approaches to reaching those missed by traditional methods. Such needs are particularly great for men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender women (TW), and other populations who face stigma. Myanmar’s HIV epidemic is concentrated among key populations and the revised National Strategy aims to reduce late diagnosis and barriers to care to curb HIV incidence among these groups. HIV self-testing (HIVST) may be one method to improve testing and diagnosis among key populations, by placing HIV testing and disclosure within the individual’s control. Methods: Formative, qualitative research including in-depth interviews with adult MSM (N = 12) and TW (N = 13) and focus group discussions with MSM, TW, and community key informants (N = 35) were conducted in June-September 2015 in Yangon, Myanmar. To inform a subsequent HIV care continuum intervention, including HIVST, participants’ opinions and perceptions about HIVST were elicited. Results: The confidentiality and privacy of HIVST, particularly as it related to disclosure of HIV status and sexual behaviour, was widely recognized among participants. These major advantages were further supported by the opportunity to avoid stigma, convenience of self-testing (reduced need for transportation and time to go to clinics), and the availability of a pain-free testing option. Participants weighed these benefits against perceived disadvantages of HIVST, the majority of which centred on the perception that HIVST does not include counselling. Participants were concerned that potential lack of counselling would result in poor mental health outcomes, inadequate linkage to HIV care and surveillance, and reductions in disclosure of HIV status. Participants did not view these disadvantages as an impediment, but provided suggestions for future implementation of HIVST in Myanmar. Conclusions: MSM and TW are optimistic about the confidentiality and privacy afforded by HIVST but wanted HIV counselling and linkage to appropriate services. The domestic reprioritization of HIV and opening of the country to international support has substantially increased the availability of HIV treatment and provides new opportunities, like HIVST, to potentially improve the HIV response for key populations who are at risk for HIV acquisition.
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