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Choruma DJ, Choruma SD, Pasirayi RM. Catch them young: Knowledge and awareness levels of HIV and AIDS transmission among high school students in Harare, Zimbabwe. AJAR-AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AIDS RESEARCH 2021; 20:224-231. [PMID: 34635019 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2021.1979060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
HIV and AIDS has developed as one of the urgent problems affecting many youths in Africa. Yet many of the knowledge and awareness programmes aimed at young people do not target high schools where the majority of young people are found. As a result, many youths do not have accurate information on HIV and AIDS that they can use to protect themselves from the disease. The objectives of this study were to determine the knowledge and awareness of Sixth Form students regarding the spread of HIV and AIDS among young people. A study was carried out among Sixth Form students in three schools in Harare from October 2017 to November 2017. A total of 156 students participated in the survey. Results showed that most students (74%) obtained their information on HIV and AIDS from television and radio programmes. Most students (92%) were able to identify unprotected sexual intercourse as the major mode of HIV transmission, while 89% said that HIV could be transmitted through sharing injections. Some students had misconceptions about HIV and AIDS which might negatively influence their behaviour and attitude towards HIV and AIDS, for example, 11% of students said HIV and AIDS could be cured. The study concludes that programmes on awareness and knowledge application in schools are limited, and efforts should be increased to help students effectively apply the knowledge they have about HIV and AIDS in everyday life situations, and protect themselves from the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Junior Choruma
- African Studies Centre, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa.,Institute for Water Research, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | - Rutendo Moyra Pasirayi
- Education Department, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa.,Northcot Training Institute, Department of Social Services, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Myburgh H, Reynolds L, Hoddinott G, van Aswegen D, Grobbelaar N, Gunst C, Jennings K, Kruger J, Louis F, Mubekapi-Musadaidzwa C, Viljoen L, Wademan D, Bock P. Implementing 'universal' access to antiretroviral treatment in South Africa: a scoping review on research priorities. Health Policy Plan 2021; 36:923-938. [PMID: 33963393 PMCID: PMC8227479 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czaa094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
‘Universal’ access to antiretroviral treatment (ART) has become the global standard for treating people living with HIV and achieving epidemic control; yet, findings from numerous ‘test and treat’ trials and implementation studies in sub-Saharan Africa suggest that bringing ‘universal' access to ART to scale is more complex than anticipated. Using South Africa as a case example, we describe the research priorities and foci in the literature on expanded ART access. To do so, we adapted Arksey and O’Malley’s six-stage scoping review framework to describe the peer-reviewed literature and opinion pieces on expanding access to ART in South Africa between 2000 and 2017. Data collection included systematic searches of two databases and hand-searching of a sub-sample of reference lists. We used an adapted socio-ecological thematic framework to categorize data according to where it located the challenges and opportunities of expanded ART eligibility: individual/client, health worker–client relationship, clinic/community context, health systems infrastructure and/or policy context. We included 194 research articles and 23 opinion pieces, of 1512 identified, addressing expanded ART access in South Africa. The peer-reviewed literature focused on the individual and health systems infrastructure; opinion pieces focused on changing roles of individuals, communities and health services implementers. We contextualized our findings through a consultative process with a group of researchers, HIV clinicians and programme managers to consider critical knowledge gaps. Unlike the published literature, the consultative process offered particular insights into the importance of researching and intervening in the relational aspects of HIV service delivery as South Africa’s HIV programme expands. An overwhelming focus on individual and health systems infrastructure factors in the published literature on expanded ART access in South Africa may skew understanding of HIV programme shortfalls away from the relational aspects of HIV services delivery and delay progress with finding ways to leverage non-medical modalities for achieving HIV epidemic control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanlie Myburgh
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa.,Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research (AISSR), University of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 166, WV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lindsey Reynolds
- Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Stellenbosch University, c/o Merriman and Ryneveld Avenue, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Graeme Hoddinott
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Dianne van Aswegen
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Nelis Grobbelaar
- The Anova Health Institute, Willie Van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town, 7530, South Africa
| | - Colette Gunst
- Division of Family Medicine and Primary Health Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa.,Western Cape Department of Health, Cape Winelands District, 7 Haarlem Street, Worcester, 6850, South Africa
| | - Karen Jennings
- City of Cape Town Health Department, Cape Town Municipality, 12 Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
| | - James Kruger
- Western Cape Department of Health, HIV Treatment and PMTCT Programme, 4 Dorp Street, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa
| | - Francoise Louis
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Constance Mubekapi-Musadaidzwa
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Lario Viljoen
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Dillon Wademan
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
| | - Peter Bock
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
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Essack Z, Ngcobo N, Van der Pol N, Knight L, Rochat T, Mkhize M, van Rooyen H. Refining Interventions Through Formative Research: A Focus on Ethical Considerations in a Family-Based Home-Based Counseling and Testing (FBCT) Intervention in KwaZulu-Natal. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2020; 15:153-162. [PMID: 31691625 PMCID: PMC7200267 DOI: 10.1177/1556264619885214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Conducting formative research is a scientific, ethical, and community engagement imperative. This article describes how formative research refined ethical processes for a family-based home-based counseling and testing (FBCT) intervention in KwaZulu-Natal. In-depth interviews were conducted to explore community (n = 20) and key stakeholders' (n = 20) needs, concerns, and perspectives on the FBCT model, including ethical issues for working with children and families. Data were analyzed thematically using NVivo software. Four key ethical considerations emerged, namely, respect for community norms and cultural practices; confidentiality, privacy, and forced disclosure; identifying potential risks and benefits; and voluntariness and capacity to consent. Data were used to refine the intervention and address participants' concerns by engaging the community, providing ethics training for intervention staff, and incorporating independent consent mechanisms for adolescent HIV testing that supported opportunities for family-based testing and disclosure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Essack
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
- School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal,
Pietermaritzburg
| | - Nkonsinathi Ngcobo
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
| | - Natasha Van der Pol
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape,
South Africa
| | - Tamsen Rochat
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences,
University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Mirriam Mkhize
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
| | - Heidi van Rooyen
- Human and Social Development Programme, Human Sciences
Research Council, South Africa
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences,
University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
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Family Testing: An Index Case Finding Strategy to Close the Gaps in Pediatric HIV Diagnosis. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 78 Suppl 2:S88-S97. [PMID: 29994830 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant advances in pediatric HIV treatment, too many children remain undiagnosed and thus without access to lifesaving antiretroviral therapy. It is critical to identify these children and initiate antiretroviral therapy as early as possible. Although the children of HIV-infected adults are at higher risk of infection, few access HIV testing services because of missed opportunities in existing case finding programs. Family testing is an index case finding strategy through which HIV-infected patients are systematically screened to identify family members with unknown HIV status. By specifically targeting a high-risk population, family testing is a pragmatic, high-yield, and efficient approach to identify previously undiagnosed HIV-infected children and link them to care before they become symptomatic. Despite this, incorporation of family testing into national guidelines and implementation of this case finding approach is variable. In this article, we review the evidence base for family testing, describe its challenges, and provide guidance and sample tools for program managers aiming to integrate family testing into existing health systems.
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Barriers to, and emerging strategies for, HIV testing among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2019; 13:257-264. [PMID: 29401121 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW HIV/AIDS is one of the leading causes of death among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa and 40% of new HIV infections worldwide occur in this group. HIV testing and counselling (HTC) is the critical first step to accessing HIV treatment. The prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection is substantially higher in adolescents compared with adults. We review barriers to HTC for adolescents and emerging HTC strategies appropriate to adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. RECENT FINDINGS There are substantial individual, health system and legal barriers to HTC among adolescents, and stigma by providers and communities remains an important obstacle. There has been progress made in recent years in developing strategies that address some of these barriers, increase uptake of HTC and yield of HIV. These include targeted approaches focused on provision of HTC among those higher risk of being infected, for example, index-linked HTC and use of screening tools to identify those at risk of HIV. Community-based HIV-testing approaches including HIV self-testing and incentives have also been shown to increase uptake of HTC. SUMMARY In implementing HTC strategies, consideration must be given to scalability and cost-effectiveness. HTC approaches must be coupled with linkage to appropriate care and prevention services.
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Gray ME, Nieburg P, Dillingham R. Pediatric Human Immunodeficiency Virus Continuum of Care: A Concise Review of Evidence-Based Practice. Pediatr Clin North Am 2017; 64:879-891. [PMID: 28734516 PMCID: PMC5576578 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Children and adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) represent a population that requires a unique approach to HIV care. Prevention, testing, initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and retention and engagement in care are critical steps. Each step requires providers to address age-specific barriers, so that successful and prolonged viral suppression can occur. Adherence to ART, disclosure of HIV-positive status, and stigma are examples of struggles faced by youth, their families, and health care providers. A multifaceted approach and thoughtful transitions of care are needed, but with sustained ART, youth living with HIV can survive and thrive with the expectation of a normal lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E. Gray
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Phillip Nieburg
- Visiting Associate Professor of Pediatrics. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, PO Box 801340, Charlottesville, VA 22908-1340, USA.
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