1
|
Kibel M, Nyambura M, Embleton L, Kiptui R, Galárraga O, Apondi E, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. Enabling Adherence to Treatment (EAT): a pilot study of a combination intervention to improve HIV treatment outcomes among street-connected individuals in western Kenya. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1331. [PMID: 38037045 PMCID: PMC10691070 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10215-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Street-connected individuals (SCI) in Kenya experience barriers to accessing HIV care. This pilot study provides proof-of-concept for Enabling Adherence to Treatment (EAT), a combination intervention providing modified directly observed therapy (mDOT), daily meals, and peer navigation services to SCI living with HIV or requiring therapy for other conditions (e.g. tuberculosis). The goal of the EAT intervention was to improve engagement in HIV care and viral suppression among SCI living with HIV in an urban setting in Kenya. METHODS This pilot study used a single group, pre/post-test design, and enrolled a convenience sample of self-identified SCI of any age. Participants were able to access free hot meals, peer navigation services, and mDOT 6 days per week. We carried out descriptive statistics to characterize participants' engagement in EAT and HIV treatment outcomes. We used McNemar's chi-square test to calculate unadjusted differences in HIV outcomes pre- and post-intervention among participants enrolled in HIV care prior to EAT. We compared unadjusted time to initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and first episode of viral load (VL) suppression among participants enrolled in HIV care prior to EAT vs. concurrently with EAT using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. We calculated total, fixed, and variable costs of the intervention. RESULTS Between July 2018 and February 2020, EAT enrolled 87 participants: 46 (53%) female and 75 (86%) living with HIV. At baseline, 60 out of 75 participants living with HIV (80%) had previously enrolled in HIV care. Out of 60, 56 (93%) had initiated ART, 44 (73%) were active in care, and 25 (42%) were virally suppressed (VL < 1000 copies/mL) at their last VL measure in the 19 months before EAT. After 19 months of follow-up, all 75 participants living with HIV had enrolled in HIV care and initiated ART, 65 (87%) were active in care, and 44 (59%) were virally suppressed at their last VL measure. Among the participants who were enrolled in HIV care before EAT, there was a significant increase in the proportion who were active in HIV care and virally suppressed at their last VL measure during EAT enrollment compared to before EAT enrollment. Participants who enrolled in HIV care concurrently with EAT had a significantly shorter time to initiation of ART and first episode of viral suppression compared to participants who enrolled in HIV care prior to EAT. The total cost of the intervention over 19 months was USD $57,448.64. Fixed costs were USD $3623.04 and variable costs were USD $63.75/month/participant. CONCLUSIONS This pilot study provided proof of concept that EAT, a combination intervention providing mDOT, food, and peer navigation services, was feasible to implement and may support engagement in HIV care and achievement of viral suppression among SCI living with HIV in an urban setting in Kenya. Future work should focus on controlled trials of EAT, assessments of feasibility in other contexts, and cost-effectiveness studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mia Kibel
- MD Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Monicah Nyambura
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Lonnie Embleton
- MD Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Global Health and Health System Design, Icahn School of Medicine Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Reuben Kiptui
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services Policy and Practice, and International Health Institute, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- MD Program, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Embleton L, Shah P, Apondi E, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. "If they had a place to live, they would be taking medication": a qualitative study identifying strategies for engaging street-connected young people in the HIV prevention-care continuum in Kenya. J Int AIDS Soc 2023; 26:e26023. [PMID: 37267115 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26023] [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: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Street-connected young people (SCY) experience structural and social barriers to engaging in the HIV prevention-care continuum. We sought to elicit recommendations for interventions that may improve SCY's engagement along the HIV prevention-care continuum from healthcare providers, policymakers, community members and SCY in Kenya. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted in Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Nakuru and Kitale counties in Kenya between May 2017 and September 2018 to explore and describe the public perceptions of, and proposed and existing responses to, the phenomenon of SCY. This secondary analysis focuses on a subset of data interviews that investigated SCY's healthcare needs in relation to HIV prevention and care. We conducted 41 in-depth interviews and seven focus group discussions with 100 participants, of which 43 were SCY. In total, 48 participants were women and 52 men. RESULTS Our analysis resulted in four major themes corresponding to stages in the HIV prevention-care continuum for key populations. We identified the need for an array of strategies to engage SCY in HIV prevention and testing services that are patient-centred and responsive to the diversity of their circumstances. The use of pre-exposure prophylaxis was a biomedical prevention strategy that SCY and healthcare providers alike stressed the need to raise awareness around and access to for SCY. Several healthcare providers suggested peer-based approaches for engaging SCY throughout the continuum. However, SCY heavily debated the appropriateness of using peer-based methods. Structural interventions, such as the provision of food and housing, were suggested as strategies to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence. CONCLUSIONS This study identified contextually relevant interventions that should be adapted and piloted for use with SCY. Education and sensitization of SCY and healthcare providers alike were identified as possible strategies, along with affordable housing and anti-poverty strategies as cash transfers and provision of food. Peer-based interventions are a clear option but require SCY-specific adaptation to be implemented effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Embleton
- Centre for Global Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pooja Shah
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Edith Apondi
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioural Science, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nelson LE, Ogunbajo A, Abu-Ba'are GR, Conserve DF, Wilton L, Ndenkeh JJ, Braitstein P, Dow D, Arrington-Sanders R, Appiah P, Tucker J, Nam S, Garofalo R. Using the Implementation Research Logic Model as a Lens to View Experiences of Implementing HIV Prevention and Care Interventions with Adolescent Sexual Minority Men-A Global Perspective. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:128-143. [PMID: 35947235 PMCID: PMC10191897 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03776-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents and sexual minority men (SMM) are high priority groups in the United Nations' 2021 - 2016 goals for HIV prevention and viral load suppression. Interventions aimed at optimizing HIV prevention, testing and viral load suppression for adolescents must also attend to the intersectional realities influencing key sub-populations of SMM. Consequently, there is not a robust evidence-base to guide researchers and program partners on optimal approaches to implementing interventions with adolescent SMM. Using a multiple case study design, we integrated the Implementation Research Logic Model with components of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and applied it as a framework for a comparative description of ten HIV related interventions implemented across five countries (Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania and United States). Using self-reported qualitative survey data of project principal investigators, we identified 17 of the most influential implementation determinants as well as a range of 17 strategies that were used in 90 instances to support intervention implementation. We highlight lessons learned in the implementation research process and provide recommendations for researchers considering future HIV implementation science studies with adolescent SMM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- LaRon E Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Yale Institute of Global Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Adedotun Ogunbajo
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gamji Rabiu Abu-Ba'are
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, NY, Rochester, USA
| | - Donaldson F Conserve
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Leo Wilton
- Department of Human Development, State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Jackson Junior Ndenkeh
- Center for International Health, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Epidemiology Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dorothy Dow
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Renata Arrington-Sanders
- Division of Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Patrick Appiah
- Youth Alliance for Health & Human Rights, Ashanti, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joe Tucker
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Soohyun Nam
- School of Nursing, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Robert Garofalo
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Embleton L, Logie CH, Ngure K, Nelson L, Kimbo L, Ayuku D, Turan JM, Braitstein P. Intersectional Stigma and Implementation of HIV Prevention and Treatment Services for Adolescents Living with and at Risk for HIV: Opportunities for Improvement in the HIV Continuum in Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:162-184. [PMID: 35907143 PMCID: PMC10192191 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03793-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically adolescent girls and young women, young men who have sex with men, transgender persons, persons who use substances, and adolescents experiencing homelessness experience intersectional stigma, have a high incidence of HIV and are less likely to be engaged in HIV prevention and care. We conducted a thematic analysis informed by the Health and Discrimination Framework using a multiple case study design with five case studies in 3 sub-Saharan African countries. Our analysis found commonalities in adolescents' intersectional stigma experiences across cases, despite different contexts. We characterize how intersectional stigma impacts the uptake and implementation of HIV prevention and treatment services along the continuum for adolescents. Findings reveal how intersectional stigma operates across social-ecological levels and worsens HIV-related outcomes for adolescents. We identify opportunities for implementation science research to address stigma-related barriers to the uptake and delivery of HIV services for adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Embleton
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - LaRon Nelson
- School of Nursing, Yale University, Orange, CT, USA
| | - Liza Kimbo
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Janet M Turan
- School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
- College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya.
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Khan M, MacEntee K, Kiptui R, Van Berkum A, Oudshoorn A, Ayuku DO, Apondi E, Lee EOJ, Abramovich A, MacDonald SA, Braitstein P. Barriers to and facilitators of accessing HIV services for street-involved youth in Canada and Kenya. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1901. [PMID: 36224566 PMCID: PMC9555255 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14290-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction UNICEF estimates that there are as many as 100 million street-involved youth (SIY) globally. Marginalized conditions put SIY at higher risk of HIV and adverse outcomes once HIV-positive. The objective of this analysis was to describe barriers and facilitators of accessing HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services as Phase I of an implementation study evaluating the use of peer navigators to increase access to HIV services. Methods Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), and theatre testing were conducted with individuals who identify as SIY, health care providers, and community stakeholders living in Canada (Toronto, Montreal, London) and Kenya (Eldoret, Huruma, Kitale). Data were analyzed using a directed content approach, guided by the socio-ecological model (SEM). Results Across the six sites were 195 participants: 64 SIY, 42 healthcare providers, and 97 community-based stakeholders. Barriers were identified at the societal (e.g. intersectional stigma and discrimination), public policy (e.g., inadequate access to basic needs, legal documentation, lack of health insurance, and limited community-based funding), institutional (e.g. lack of inclusive education and training, inadequate HIV educational outreach, and restrictive service provision), interpersonal (e.g., ineffective communication from healthcare providers), and intrapersonal levels (e.g. lack of trust and associated fear, low perception for healthcare, and lack of self-esteem). These contributed to limited HIV services utilization among SIY. Conversely, numerous facilitators were also identified at the public policy (e.g. affordable HIV services and treatment), institutional (e.g. available and accessible HIV prevention tools, HIV education and awareness programs, and holistic models of care), interpersonal level (e.g., systems navigation support, peer support, and personal relationships), and intrapersonal levels (e.g. self-efficacy) as positively supporting SIY access to HIV services. Conclusion Intersectional stigma was a critical barrier in all sites, and policies and programs that foster welcoming environments for youth from diverse backgrounds and living circumstances may be better able to respond to the HIV service needs of this high risk population. Social support and navigation services were reported to facilitate access to HIV services in all sites. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-14290-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Momina Khan
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Katie MacEntee
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, M5T 3M7, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Reuben Kiptui
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Amy Van Berkum
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Abe Oudshoorn
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Canada
| | - David O Ayuku
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Edith Apondi
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Alex Abramovich
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Child and Youth Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Paula Braitstein
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, M5T 3M7, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya. .,Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Leistikow PT, Patel V, Nouryan C, Cervia JS. Acceptability of HIV testing for adolescents and young adults by delivery model: a systematic review. J Investig Med 2021; 70:829-836. [PMID: 34880049 DOI: 10.1136/jim-2021-002056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
HIV infections are prevalent among adolescents and young adults, of whom 44% remain unaware of their diagnosis. HIV screening presents numerous challenges including stigma, fear, and concerns about confidentiality, which may influence young people's acceptance of HIV screening and linkage to care differently from individuals in other age groups. It is imperative to understand which care delivery models are most effective in facilitating these services for youth. This systematic review analyzes the rates of HIV test acceptance and linkage to care by care delivery model for adolescents and young adults. Studies were classified into emergency department (ED), primary care/inpatient setting, community-based program, or sexually transmitted infection clinic models of care. From 6395 studies initially identified, 59 met criteria for inclusion in the final analyses. Rate of test acceptance and linkage to care were stratified by model of care delivery, gender, race, age ranges (13-17, 18-24 years) as well as site (North America vs rest of the world). A significant difference in acceptance of HIV testing was found between care models, with high rates of test acceptance in the ED setting in North America and primary care/hospital setting in the rest of the world. Similarly, linkage to care differed by model of care, with EDs having high rates of linkages to HIV care in North America. Future studies are needed to test mechanisms for optimizing outcomes for each care delivery model in addressing the unique challenges faced by adolescents and young adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Thomas Leistikow
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Vidhi Patel
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA.,Institute of Health Innovations and Outcomes Research, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
| | - Christian Nouryan
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA.,Institute of Health Innovations and Outcomes Research, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
| | - Joseph Steven Cervia
- Medicine and Pediatrics, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Manhasset, New York, USA.,Senior Medical Director, HealthCare Partners IPA & MSO, Garden City, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Noor MN, Holt M, Qureshi A, de Wit J, Bryant J. Sexual risk-taking among homeless young people in Pakistan. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:1550-1558. [PMID: 33170554 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13220] [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: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Homeless young people who engage in sex work are at increased risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and herpes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 homeless young people between the ages of 16 and 25 years from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, to explore how sexual practices were mediated through social and contextual conditions. Participants engaged in sex for a range of reported reasons, most commonly to generate income, but also to build intimacy and to establish intimate partnerships which could bring physical protection and social and emotional support. Although participants were aware of the sexual health risks attached to condomless sex, they engaged in it due to the social obligations of intimate partnerships, financial considerations and to better manage potentially violent situations. Instead of condoms, participants used alternate methods like withdrawal, oral sex, post-sex douching and specific sexual positions. These were not always useful, and some methods might have inadvertently increased their risk of HIV. The study findings suggest that an integrated health promotion approach that goes beyond the health sector and a singular emphasis on risk awareness may help reduce young people's risk of homelessness and sexual health risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad N Noor
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Martin Holt
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ayaz Qureshi
- Department of Social Anthropology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - John de Wit
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joanne Bryant
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Braitstein P, DeLong A, Ayuku D, Ott M, Atwoli L, Galárraga O, Sang E, Hogan J. Association of Care Environment With HIV Incidence and Death Among Orphaned, Separated, and Street-Connected Children and Adolescents in Western Kenya. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2125365. [PMID: 34529063 PMCID: PMC8446813 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.25365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In 2015, there were nearly 140 million orphaned children globally, particularly in low- and middle-income regions, and millions more for whom the street is central to their everyday lives. A total of 16.6 million children were orphaned because of deaths associated with HIV/AIDS, of whom 90% live in sub-Saharan Africa. Although most orphaned and separated children and adolescents in this region are cared for by extended family, the large number of children requiring care has produced a proliferation of institutional care. Few studies have investigated the association between care environment and physical health among orphaned and separated youths in sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVE To examine the association of care environment with incident HIV and death among orphaned and separated children and adolescents who were living in charitable children's institutions, family-based settings, and street settings in western Kenya over almost 10 years. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS The Orphaned and Separated Children's Assessments Related to Their Health and Well-Being (OSCAR) project was an observational prospective cohort study conducted in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The cohort comprised 2551 orphaned, separated, and street-connected children from communities within 8 administrative locations, which included 300 randomly selected households (family-based settings) caring for children who were orphaned from all causes, 19 charitable children's institutions (institutional settings), and a convenience sample of 100 children who were practicing self-care on the streets (street settings). Participants were enrolled from May 31, 2010, to April 24, 2013, and were followed up until November 30, 2019. EXPOSURES Care environment (family-based, institutional, or street setting). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Survival regression models were used to investigate the association between care environment and incident HIV, death, and time to incident HIV or death. RESULTS Among 2551 participants, 1230 youths were living in family-based settings, 1230 were living in institutional settings, and 91 were living in street settings. Overall, 1321 participants (51.8%) were male, with a mean (SD) age at baseline of 10.4 (4.8) years. Most participants who were living in institutional (1047 of 1230 youths [85.1%]) or street (71 of 91 youths [78.0%]) settings were double orphaned (ie, both parents had died). A total of 59 participants acquired HIV infection or died during the study period. After adjusting for sex, age, and baseline HIV status, living in a charitable children's institution was not associated with death (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 0.26; 95% CI, 0.07-1.02) or incident HIV (AHR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.46-4.83). Compared with living in a family-based setting, living in a street setting was associated with death (AHR, 5.46; 95% CI, 2.30-12.94), incident HIV (AHR, 17.31; 95% CI, 5.85-51.25), and time to incident HIV or death (AHR, 7.82; 95% CI, 3.48-17.55). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, after adjusting for potential confounders, no association was found between care environment and HIV incidence or death among youths living in institutional vs family-based settings. However, living in a street setting vs a family-based setting was associated with both HIV incidence and death. This study's findings suggest that strengthening of child protection systems and greater investment in evidence-based family support systems that improve child and adolescent health and prevent youth migration to the street are needed for safe and beneficial deinstitutionalization to be implemented at scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Braitstein
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Program, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Allison DeLong
- Department of Biostatistics, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Mary Ott
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis
| | - Lukoye Atwoli
- Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Dean’s Office, Aga Khan University Medical College, East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Omar Galárraga
- Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Edwin Sang
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Program, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Joseph Hogan
- Department of Biostatistics, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, Rhode Island
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Murphy K, Embleton L, Lachman JM, Owino E, Kirwa S, Makori D, Braitstein P. "From Analog to Digital": The Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Outcomes of a Positive Parenting Program for Street-Connected Mothers in Kenya. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2021; 127:106077. [PMID: 34421160 PMCID: PMC8372834 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2021.106077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children of street-connected women in Kenya are at risk of child maltreatment. There have been increasing calls for positive parenting programs for parents experiencing homelessness, however never has one been implemented with this population. We therefore adapted the evidence-based Parenting for Lifelong Health for Young Children program using participatory methods, and piloted the adapted program with street-connected mothers in Kenya. OBJECTIVES To (a) determine if the adapted program was feasible and acceptable with street-connected mothers, and (b) assess indicative effects on child maltreatment, positive parenting, and parental stress. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Two groups of 15 mothers (ages 19+, and 20- ) participated between June-July 2018 in Eldoret, Kenya. Participants were eligible if they (a) were the mother of at least one child and (b) self-identified as street-connected. METHODS Feasibility was measured via enrollment, attendance, drop-out rates, and engagement in take-away activities. Focus groups explored program acceptability and program outcomes. Self-report surveys assessed pre-post changes in child maltreatment, parental stress, parental sense of inefficacy, and positive parenting practices. RESULTS 70% of participants attended ≥3/4 of sessions, 10% dropped out, and >50% of take-away activities were completed. Participants reported high acceptability and requested its continuation for themselves and other parents. There was an increase in supporting good behaviour (t(21)=8.15, p < .000) and setting limits (t(18) = 10.03, p < .000); a reduction in physical abuse (t(23) = -2.15, p = .042) and parental stress (t(22) = -7.08, p < .000); results for parental inefficacy were not statistically significant (t(22) = 0.15, p = .882). CONCLUSIONS The adapted program is feasible and acceptable to street-connected mothers, and may reduce child maltreatment and parental stress, and increase positive parenting. Further research should test program effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Murphy
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada, 6420 Coburg Rd., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Lonnie Embleton
- University of Toronto, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, Canada, 155 College St, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Jamie M. Lachman
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, UK; MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, UK, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, United Kingdom, OX1 2ER
| | - Eucabeth Owino
- Beruham, Eldoret, Kenya, P.O. Box 3950 Eldoret, 30100 Kenya
| | - Sheila Kirwa
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya, P.O. Box 4606, Eldoret, Kenya, 30100
| | - Dominic Makori
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), Eldoret, Kenya, P.O. Box 4606, Eldoret, Kenya, 30100
| | - Paula Braitstein
- University of Toronto, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, Toronto, Canada, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Eldoret, Kenya, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON Canada M5T 3M7
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lonnie E, Pooja S, Allison G, Reuben K, David A, Juddy W, Edith A, Paula B. Exploring patient-provider interactions and the health system's responsiveness to street-connected children and youth in Kenya: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:363. [PMID: 33874934 PMCID: PMC8056657 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06376-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Kenya, street-connected children and youth (SCY) have poor health outcomes and die prematurely due to preventable causes. This suggests they are not accessing or receiving adequately responsive healthcare to prevent morbidity and mortality. We sought to gain insight into the health systems responsiveness to SCY in Kenya through an in-depth exploration of SCY’s and healthcare provider’s reflections on their interactions with each other. Methods This qualitative study was conducted across 5 counties in western Kenya between May 2017 and September 2018 using multiple methods to explore and describe the public perceptions of, and proposed and existing responses to, the phenomenon of SCY in Kenya. The present analysis focuses on a subset of data from focus group discussions and in-depth interviews concerning the delivery of healthcare to SCY, interactions between SCY and providers, and SCY’s experiences in the health system. We conducted a thematic analysis situated in a conceptual framework for health systems responsiveness. Results Through three themes, context, negative patient-provider interactions, and positive patient-provider interactions, we identified factors that shape health systems responsiveness to SCY in Kenya. Economic factors influenced and limited SCY’s interactions with the health system and shaped their experiences of dignity, quality of basic amenities, choice of provider, and prompt attention. The stigmatization and discrimination of SCY, a sociological process shaped by the social-cultural context in Kenya, resulted in experiences of indignity and a lack of prompt attention when interacting with the health system. Patient-provider interactions were highly influenced by healthcare providers’ adverse personal emotions and attitudes towards SCY, resulting in negative interactions and a lack of health systems responsiveness. Conclusions This study suggests that the health system in Kenya is inadequately responsive to SCY. Increasing public health expenditures and expanding universal health coverage may begin to address economic factors, such as the inability to pay for care, which influence SCY’s experiences of choice of provider, prompt attention, and dignity. The deeply embedded adverse emotional responses expressed by providers about SCY, associated with the socially constructed stigmatization of this population, need to be addressed to improve patient-provider interactions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-021-06376-6.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Embleton Lonnie
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 6th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 Kings College Circle Room 2374, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Shah Pooja
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.,Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Gayapersad Allison
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 6th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - Kiptui Reuben
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Ayuku David
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya.,Department of Behavioural Science, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Wachira Juddy
- Department of Behavioural Science, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Apondi Edith
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Braitstein Paula
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 6th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada. .,Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 Kings College Circle Room 2374, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada. .,Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya. .,Moi University, College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kibel M, Pierzchalski J, Gorfinkel L, Embleton L, Ayuku D, Hogg R, Braitstein P. Standardized mortality ratios between street-connected young people and the general age-equivalent population in an urban setting in Kenya from 2010 to 2015. Glob Health Action 2021; 13:1802097. [PMID: 32819217 PMCID: PMC7480584 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2020.1802097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There are currently no published estimates of mortality rates among street-connected young people in Kenya. In this short report, we estimate mortality rates among street-connected young people in an urban setting in Kenya and calculate standardized mortality ratios to assess excess mortality among street-connected young people compared to the general population of Kenyan adolescents. We collected data on deaths among street-connected young people aged 0–29 between 2010 and 2015. We calculated sex-stratified standardized mortality ratios for street-connected young people aged 0–19 and 20–29 from 2010 to 2015, using publicly available Kenya population data as reference. We found that between 2010 and 2015, there were 69 deaths among street-connected young people aged 0 to 29 years in 2013 was 1,248: 341 females (27%) and 907 males (73%). The standardized mortality ratios among street-connected females aged 0–19 and 20–29 years were 2.79 (95% CI 1.44–4.88) and 7.55 (95% CI 3.77–13.51), respectively; standardized mortality ratios among street-connected males aged 0–19 and 20–29 years were 0.71 (95% CI 0.32–1.35) and 5.48 (95% CI 3.86–7.55), respectively. In conclusion, we found that mortality among street-connected young people in an urban setting in Kenya is elevated compared to the general population of Kenyan young people. States should act urgently and take responsibility for protecting street-connected young people’s human rights by scaling up programs to prevent morbidity and death associated with youth street involvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mia Kibel
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of Toronto , Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - James Pierzchalski
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University , Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Lauren Gorfinkel
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University , New York, NY, USA
| | - Lonnie Embleton
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of Toronto , Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
| | - David Ayuku
- College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Department of Behavioral Sciences, Moi University , Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Robert Hogg
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS , Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University , Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology, University of Toronto , Toronto, ON, Canada.,College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Moi University , Eldoret, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Embleton L, Di Ruggiero E, Logie CH, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. Improving livelihoods and gender equitable attitudes of street-connected young people in Eldoret, Kenya: Results from a pilot evidence-based intervention. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:227-240. [PMID: 32633059 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Street-connected young people (SCY) in Eldoret, Kenya, experience substantial gender inequities, economic marginalization and are highly vulnerable to acquiring HIV. This study sought to explain and explore how participation in a pilot-adapted evidence-based intervention, Stepping Stones and Creating Futures, integrated with matched savings, changed SCY's economic resources, livelihoods and gender equitable attitudes. We piloted our adapted intervention using a convergent mixed-methods design measuring outcomes pre- and post-intervention with 80 SCY in four age- and gender-stratified groups of 20 participants per group (young women aged 16-19 years and 20-24 years, young men aged 16-19 years and 20-24 years). The pilot occurred at MTRH-Rafiki Centre for Excellence in Adolescent Health in Eldoret, Kenya, from September 2017 to January 2018. Through street outreach, Peer Facilitators created four age- and gender-stratified sampling lists of SCY whom met the eligibility criteria and whom indicated their interest in participating in the intervention during outreach sessions. Simple random sampling was used to select eligible participants who indicated their interest in participating in the intervention. The adapted intervention, Stepping Stones ya Mshefa na Kujijenga Kimaisha, included 24 sessions that occurred over 14 weeks, focused on sexual and reproductive health, gender norms in society, livelihoods and included a matched-savings programme conditional on attendance. The primary outcome of interest was gender equitable attitudes measured using the Gender Equitable Men scale and secondary outcomes included economic resources and livelihoods. Participants had a significant change in gender equitable attitudes from pre- to post-intervention from 43 (IQR 38-48) to 47 (IQR 42-51) (p < .001). Quantitatively and qualitatively participants reported increases in daily earnings, changes in street involvement, housing and livelihood activities. Overall, this study demonstrated that the adapted programme might be effective at changing gender equitable attitudes and improving livelihood circumstances for SCY in Kenya.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Embleton
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Erica Di Ruggiero
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Behavioural Science, College of Health Science, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare, Eldoret, Kenya
- School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Embleton L, Shah P, Gayapersad A, Kiptui R, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. Characterizing street-connected children and youths' social and health inequities in Kenya: a qualitative study. Int J Equity Health 2020; 19:147. [PMID: 32859193 PMCID: PMC7455900 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-020-01255-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Street-connected children and youth (SCY) in Kenya disproportionately experience preventable morbidities and premature mortality. We theorize these health inequities are socially produced and result from systemic discrimination and a lack of human rights attainment. Therefore, we sought to identify and understand how SCY's social and health inequities in Kenya are produced, maintained, and shaped by structural and social determinants of health using the WHO conceptual framework on social determinants of health (SDH) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) General Comment no. 17. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted from May 2017 to September 2018 using multiple methods including focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, archival review of newspaper articles, and analysis of a government policy document. We purposively sampled 100 participants including community leaders, government officials, vendors, police officers, general community residents, parents of SCY, and stakeholders in 5 counties across Kenya to participate in focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. We conducted a thematic analysis situated in the conceptual framework on SDH and the CRC. RESULTS Our findings indicate that SCY's social and health disparities arise as a result of structural and social determinants stemming from a socioeconomic and political environment that produces systemic discrimination, breaches human rights, and influences their unequal socioeconomic position in society. These social determinants influence SCY's intermediary determinants of health resulting in a lack of basic material needs, being precariously housed or homeless, engaging in substance use and misuse, and experiencing several psychosocial stressors, all of which shape health outcomes and equity for this population. CONCLUSIONS SCY in Kenya experience social and health inequities that are avoidable and unjust. These social and health disparities arise as a result of structural and social determinants of health inequities stemming from the socioeconomic and political context in Kenya that produces systemic discrimination and influences SCYs' unequal socioeconomic position in society. Remedial action to reverse human rights contraventions and to advance health equity through action on SDH for SCY in Kenya is urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Embleton
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 Kings College Circle Room 2374, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - P Shah
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - A Gayapersad
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada
| | - R Kiptui
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - D Ayuku
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
- Department of Behavioural Science, School of Medicine, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - P Braitstein
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Health Sciences Building, 155 College Street, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5T 3M7, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 1 Kings College Circle Room 2374, Toronto, ON, M5S 1A8, Canada.
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH), P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya.
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Moi University, College of Health Sciences, P.O. Box 4606-30100, Eldoret, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Piloting an evidence-based intervention for HIV prevention among street youth in Eldoret, Kenya. Int J Public Health 2020; 65:433-443. [PMID: 32270232 PMCID: PMC7275002 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01349-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study presents findings from piloting an adapted evidence-based intervention, Stepping Stones and Creating Futures, to change street-connected young people's HIV knowledge, condom-use self-efficacy, and sexual practices. METHODS Eighty street-connected young people participated in a pre- and post-test mixed methods design in Eldoret, Kenya. The primary outcome of interest was HIV knowledge. Secondary outcomes included condom-use self-efficacy and sexual practices. Multiple linear regression models for change scores with adjustment for socio-demographic variables were fitted. Qualitative and quantitative findings are presented together, where integration confirms, expands on, or uncovers discordant findings. RESULTS Participants had a significant increase in HIV knowledge from pre- to post-intervention. The median HIV knowledge score pre-intervention was 11 (IQR 8-13) and post-intervention 14 (IQR 12-16). Attendance was significantly associated with HIV knowledge change scores. Qualitatively participants reported increased HIV and condom-use knowledge and improved condom-use self-efficacy and health-seeking practices. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the potential for further testing with a rigorous study design to investigate how best to tailor the intervention, particularly by gender, and increase the overall effectiveness of the program.
Collapse
|
15
|
Embleton L, Di Ruggiero E, Odep Okal E, Chan AK, Logie CH, Ayuku D, Braitstein P. Adapting an evidence-based gender, livelihoods, and HIV prevention intervention with street-connected young people in Eldoret, Kenya. Glob Public Health 2019; 14:1703-1717. [PMID: 31162989 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2019.1625940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Despite being highly vulnerable to acquiring HIV, no effective evidence-based interventions (EBI) exist for street-connected young people (SCY) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Therefore, this paper describes the research process of adapting an existing EBI in Eldoret, Kenya using a modified ADAPT-ITT model with a young key population. From May to August 2018 we adapted the combined Stepping Stones and Creating Futures interventions. We used community-based participatory methods, focus group discussions, and working groups with four Peer Facilitators and 24 SCY aged 16-24 years. At the inception of this project, a matched-savings programme was integrated into the intervention to further address structural drivers of HIV. Numerous adaptations came forth through the participatory process. Engaging SCY in the adaptation process ensured the programme was responsive to their needs, relevant to the street context, and respected their right to participate in the research process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Embleton
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada
| | - Erica Di Ruggiero
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada
| | - Evans Odep Okal
- Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare , Eldoret , Kenya
| | - Adrienne K Chan
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada.,Dignitas International , Zomba , Malawi
| | - Carmen H Logie
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada
| | - David Ayuku
- Department of Behavioural Science, College of Health Science, Moi University , Eldoret , Kenya
| | - Paula Braitstein
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto , Toronto , Canada.,Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare , Eldoret , Kenya.,College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Moi University , Eldoret , Kenya
| |
Collapse
|