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Medina-Jaudes N, Adoa D, Williams A, Amulen C, Carmone A, Dowling S, Joseph J, Katureebe C, Nabitaka V, Musoke A, Namusoke Magongo E, Nabwire Chimulwa T. Predicting Lost to Follow-Up Status Using an Adolescent HIV Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment Tool: Results From a Mixed Methods Prospective Cohort Study in Uganda. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:439-446. [PMID: 38180899 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low retention in care for adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) has been a key driver of suboptimal viral load suppression rates in Uganda. The objective of this study was to develop a psychosocial risk assessment tool and evaluate its ability to predict the risk of attrition of ALHIV between the ages 15 and 19 years. SETTING The study was conducted in 20 facilities in Central and Western Uganda from August 2021 through July 2022. METHODS A mixed methods prospective cohort study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool was developed and revised using feedback from focus group discussions and interviews. In the second phase, the ability of the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool to predict attrition among ALHIV was evaluated using diagnostic accuracy tests. RESULTS A total of 597 adolescents between the ages 15 and 19 years were enrolled, of which 6% were lost to follow-up at the end of the study period. A 20-question tool was developed, with 12 questions being responded to affirmatively by >50% of all participants. Using a cut-off score of 6 or more affirmative answers translated to an area under the curve of 0.58 (95% CI: 0.49 to 0.66), sensitivity of 55% (95% CI: 36% to 72%), and specificity of 61% (95% CI: 56% to 65%). CONCLUSION Although the Adolescent Psychosocial Attrition Risk Assessment tool was not effective at predicting lost to follow-up status among ALHIV, the tool was useful for identifying psychosocial issues experienced by ALHIV and may be appropriate to administer during routine care visits to guide action.
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Giovenco D, Pettifor A, Qayiya Y, Jones J, Bekker LG. The Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Effectiveness of a Courier HIV-Treatment Delivery and SMS Support Intervention for Young People Living With HIV in South Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2024; 95:161-169. [PMID: 37856424 PMCID: PMC10841708 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young people living with HIV (YPLWH) experience poorer rates of virological suppression compared with adults. Differentiated service delivery models for YPLWH are urgently needed to address this disparity. SETTING Participants were recruited from an HIV treatment clinic near Cape Town, South Africa. METHODS We conducted a longitudinal pilot study to examine the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of a courier ART delivery and SMS support intervention to retain YPLWH (13-24 years) in care during COVID-19. YPLWH had the option to enroll in the courier service and were randomized 1:1 to receive adherence support via a weekly SMS. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate the preliminary effectiveness of the courier intervention on viral suppression (HIV-1 RNA <200 copies/mL) at months 3 and 6. RESULTS Among 215 participants, 82% elected to enroll in the courier ART service at baseline, 41% reported receiving a delivery in the past 3 months at month 3, and 49% reported receiving a delivery in the past 3 months at month 6. Among those who received a delivery, most (91%-100%) rated the intervention as acceptable. Participants who reported receiving a delivery in the past 3 months at month 3 were 1.26 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.54) times as likely to have a suppressed viral load at month 3 and 1.21 (0.99, 1.48) times as likely at month 6, controlling for potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS Findings reveal high uptake and acceptability of a courier ART delivery intervention among YPLWH and promising evidence for its effectiveness in increasing the probability of viral suppression. A fully powered trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Giovenco
- Emory University, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, GA, USA
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Epidemiology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Audrey Pettifor
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Department of Epidemiology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Jeb Jones
- Emory University, Department of Epidemiology, Atlanta, GA, USA
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3
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Biskupiak Z, Ha VV, Rohaj A, Bulaj G. Digital Therapeutics for Improving Effectiveness of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Biological Products: Preclinical and Clinical Studies Supporting Development of Drug + Digital Combination Therapies for Chronic Diseases. J Clin Med 2024; 13:403. [PMID: 38256537 PMCID: PMC10816409 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Limitations of pharmaceutical drugs and biologics for chronic diseases (e.g., medication non-adherence, adverse effects, toxicity, or inadequate efficacy) can be mitigated by mobile medical apps, known as digital therapeutics (DTx). Authorization of adjunct DTx by the US Food and Drug Administration and draft guidelines on "prescription drug use-related software" illustrate opportunities to create drug + digital combination therapies, ultimately leading towards drug-device combination products (DTx has a status of medical devices). Digital interventions (mobile, web-based, virtual reality, and video game applications) demonstrate clinically meaningful benefits for people living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, depression, and anxiety. In the respective animal disease models, preclinical studies on environmental enrichment and other non-pharmacological modalities (physical activity, social interactions, learning, and music) as surrogates for DTx "active ingredients" also show improved outcomes. In this narrative review, we discuss how drug + digital combination therapies can impact translational research, drug discovery and development, generic drug repurposing, and gene therapies. Market-driven incentives to create drug-device combination products are illustrated by Humira® (adalimumab) facing a "patent-cliff" competition with cheaper and more effective biosimilars seamlessly integrated with DTx. In conclusion, pharma and biotech companies, patients, and healthcare professionals will benefit from accelerating integration of digital interventions with pharmacotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zack Biskupiak
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Victor Vinh Ha
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Aarushi Rohaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- The Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA
| | - Grzegorz Bulaj
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
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Cluver LD, Shenderovich Y, Seslija M, Zhou S, Toska E, Armstrong A, Gulaid LA, Ameyan W, Cassolato M, Kuo CC, Laurenzi C, Sherr L. Identifying Adolescents at Highest Risk of ART Non-adherence, Using the World Health Organization-Endorsed HEADSS and HEADSS+ Checklists. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:141-153. [PMID: 37589806 PMCID: PMC10803572 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04137-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Brief tools are necessary to identify adolescents at greatest risk for ART non-adherence. From the WHO's HEADSS/HEADSS+ adolescent wellbeing checklists, we identify constructs strongly associated with non-adherence (validated with viral load). We conducted interviews and collected clinical records from a 3-year cohort of 1046 adolescents living with HIV from 52 South African government facilities. We used least absolute shrinkage and selection operator variable selection approach with a generalized linear mixed model. HEADSS constructs most predictive were: violence exposure (aOR 1.97, CI 1.61; 2.42, p < 0.001), depression (aOR 1.71, CI 1.42; 2.07, p < 0.001) and being sexually active (aOR 1.80, CI 1.41; 2.28, p < 0.001). Risk of non-adherence rose from 20.4% with none, to 55.6% with all three. HEADSS+ constructs were: medication side effects (aOR 2.27, CI 1.82; 2.81, p < 0.001), low social support (aOR 1.97, CI 1.60; 2.43, p < 0.001) and non-disclosure to parents (aOR 2.53, CI 1.91; 3.53, p < 0.001). Risk of non-adherence rose from 21.6% with none, to 71.8% with all three. Screening within established checklists can improve identification of adolescents needing increased support. Adolescent HIV services need to include side-effect management, violence prevention, mental health and sexual and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie D Cluver
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK.
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Marko Seslija
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Social and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy & Intervention, University of Oxford, Barnett House, 32 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2ER, UK
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alice Armstrong
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laurie A Gulaid
- UNICEF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Caroline C Kuo
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Christina Laurenzi
- Department of Global Health, Institute for Life Course Health Research, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Health Psychology Unit, Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Ahmed CV, Doyle R, Gallagher D, Imoohi O, Ofoegbu U, Wright R, Yore MA, Brooks MJ, Flores DD, Lowenthal ED, Rice BM, Buttenheim AM. A Systematic Review of Peer Support Interventions for Adolescents Living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2023; 37:535-559. [PMID: 37956242 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2023.0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite widespread availability of life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in sub-Saharan Africa, AIDS remains one of the leading causes of death among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa. The purpose of this article was to review the state of the science regarding interventions to improve ART adherence and/or HIV care retention among ALHIV throughout sub-Saharan Africa. The primary aim of this review was to describe the impact of peer support interventions in improving treatment outcomes (i.e., ART adherence and retention in HIV care) among ALHIV in sub-Saharan Africa. The secondary aim of this review was to determine whether these interventions may be efficacious at improving mental health outcomes. We identified 27 articles that met the eligibility criteria for our review, and categorized each article based on the type of peer support provided to ALHIV-individualized peer support, group-based support, and individualized plus group-based support. Results regarding the efficacy of these interventions are mixed and most of the studies included were deemed moderate in methodological quality. Although studies evaluating group-based peer support interventions were the most common, most of these studies were not associated with retention, adherence, or mental health outcomes. More robust, fully powered studies are needed to strengthen our knowledge base regarding peer support for ALHIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charisse V Ahmed
- National Clinician Scholars Program, Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rebecca Doyle
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Darby Gallagher
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Olore Imoohi
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ugochi Ofoegbu
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robyn Wright
- Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mackensie A Yore
- VA Los Angeles and UCLA National Clinician Scholars Program, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System HSR&D Center of Innovation, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Merrian J Brooks
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Botswana UPENN Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | | | - Elizabeth D Lowenthal
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bridgette M Rice
- M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alison M Buttenheim
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Badejo O, Nöstlinger C, Wouters E, Laga M, Okonkwo P, Jwanle P, Van Belle S. Understanding why and how youth-friendly health services improve viral load suppression among adolescents and young people living with HIV in Nigeria: realist evaluation with qualitative comparative analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e012600. [PMID: 37748794 PMCID: PMC10533666 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-012600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Youth-friendly health service (YFHS) approaches are essential to better outcomes for young people. We evaluated attainment of viral load suppression among young people living with HIV (YPLHIV) enrolled in an HIV treatment programme implementing YFHS models in Nigeria. METHODS A realist evaluation using qualitative and quantitative programme data from 10 implementing health facilities. We used qualitative information to explore how and why viral load suppression was attained across different settings and quantitative data to describe patterns and associations between youth-friendly structures and processes of care, care retention and viral load suppression. To consolidate the theories, we used qualitative comparative analysis to identify the necessary and sufficient conditions for attaining viral load suppression, using 30 YPLHIV as cases. RESULTS Between baseline (2018) and study-end (May 2022), viral load suppression coverage increased in 8 of the 10 study facilities. The number of facilities with viral load suppression coverage ≥90% rose from two to seven, while one facility remained unchanged, and another had a decline in coverage. Among the 30 selected YPLHIV cases, 18 had viral load suppression during the first test and 24 at the second test. However, viral load suppression attainment varied in different contexts. We identified the different YFHS interventions and key mechanisms that influenced viral load suppression in different contexts. CONCLUSION YFHS interventions can improve young people's engagement with HIV services, but their effectiveness depends on specific mechanisms and contextual factors influencing their response to interventions. By exploring how and why viral load suppression was attained in different contexts, the findings will improve the design and implementation of strategies to improve outcomes in young people, which will be relevant for achievement of global goals to eliminate HIV by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okikiolu Badejo
- APIN Public Health Institute, Abuja, Nigeria
- Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
- Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - Edwin Wouters
- Department of Sociology, University of Antwerp, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Marie Laga
- Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | | | - Sara Van Belle
- Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerpen, Belgium
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7
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Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Improving Outcomes for Adolescents and Young Adults Living With HIV. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:605-9. [PMID: 37422741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV), ages 10-24, experience inferior outcomes across the HIV care continuum compared to adults. Inferior outcomes are caused by clinical systems that are not tailored to AYLHIV, structural barriers that prevent equitable care, and lack of engagement of AYLHIV by care teams. This position paper outlines three recommendations to bridge these gaps in care outcomes. The first advocates for offering differentiated and integrated health services. The second addresses structural changes that can improve outcomes for AYLHIV. The third calls for actively including input from AYLHIV about the care designed for them.
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8
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Lopez CM, Moreland A, Goodrum NM, Davies F, Meissner EG, Danielson CK. Association of mental health symptoms on HIV care outcomes and retention in treatment. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 82:41-6. [PMID: 36934530 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose was to examine associations between HIV care engagement and mental health symptoms among persons living with HIV (PLWH) receiving ART. This study builds upon previous findings indicating a significant association between mental health and retention in HIV care,1 while also advancing the literature by examining the impact of substance use on this link, as well as potential bidirectional associations. METHOD Participants of the current study were 493 patients who engaged in care and received antiviral therapy (ART) from Infectious Disease physicians between 2017 and 2019 in a large academic medical center. RESULTS Results from hierarchical regression analyses revealed that patients who missed more days of ART medication had higher depressive symptoms, even when accounting for the effect of demographic variables and alcohol use. Further, depressive symptoms predicted significant variance in number of "no show" visits, but was not individually predictive of ""no show"" visits beyond the effect of other HIV care outcomes (e.g., number of days of medication missed). CONCLUSION Findings reflect linkages among HIV treatment adherence, mental health, and substance use, and highlight the need to target mental health symptoms to improve outcomes among PLWH and prevent HIV transmission.
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9
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Haas AD, Lienhard R, Didden C, Cornell M, Folb N, Boshomane TMG, Salazar-Vizcaya L, Ruffieux Y, Nyakato P, Wettstein AE, Tlali M, Davies MA, von Groote P, Wainberg M, Egger M, Maartens G, Joska JA. Mental Health, ART Adherence, and Viral Suppression Among Adolescents and Adults Living with HIV in South Africa: A Cohort Study. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:1849-1861. [PMID: 36592251 PMCID: PMC10149479 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03916-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We followed adolescents and adults living with HIV aged older than 15 years who enrolled in a South African private-sector HIV programme to examine adherence and viral non-suppression (viral load > 400 copies/mL) of participants with (20,743, 38%) and without (33,635, 62%) mental health diagnoses. Mental health diagnoses were associated with unfavourable adherence patterns. The risk of viral non-suppression was higher among patients with organic mental disorders [adjusted risk ratio (aRR) 1.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22-1.96], substance use disorders (aRR 1.53, 95% CI 1.19-1.97), serious mental disorders (aRR 1.30, 95% CI 1.09-1.54), and depression (aRR 1.19, 95% CI 1.10-1.28) when compared with patients without mental health diagnoses. The risk of viral non-suppression was also higher among males, adolescents (15-19 years), and young adults (20-24 years). Our study highlights the need for psychosocial interventions to improve HIV treatment outcomes-particularly of adolescents and young adults-and supports strengthening mental health services in HIV treatment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Haas
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Raphael Lienhard
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Didden
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Sociology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Morna Cornell
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Tebatso M G Boshomane
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Luisa Salazar-Vizcaya
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yann Ruffieux
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Patience Nyakato
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anja E Wettstein
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Graduate School of Health Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mpho Tlali
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mary-Ann Davies
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Per von Groote
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Milton Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry and New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Mittelstrasse 43, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.,Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology & Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Gary Maartens
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John A Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Laurenzi C, Ronan A, Phillips L, Nalugo S, Mupakile E, Operario D, Toska E. Enhancing a peer supporter intervention for young mothers living with HIV in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia: Adaptation and co-development of a psychosocial component. Glob Public Health 2023; 18:2081711. [PMID: 35634944 PMCID: PMC9705607 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2081711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTYoung mothers living with HIV (YMHIV) experience heightened risks to their mental health, as their transition to adulthood is marked by social stigma, health and socioeconomic challenges. Targeted psychosocial interventions may improve the mental health of YMHIV; however, no evidence-based interventions have been developed for this group. Peer support models, more common for youth living with HIV, show promise as a design to reach YMHIV in a non-stigmatising way. This manuscript describes the process of adapting and co-developing an evidence-based psychosocial component (Boost) of a larger intervention called Ask-Boost-Connect-Discuss. Peer supporters in Malawi, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia used ABCD to guide group sessions with YMHIV. The research team partnered with an implementing partner, Paediatric-Adolescent Treatment Africa, to undertake this work in three phases: 1) formative research, 2) content adaptation and development, and 3) consultation, refinement, and modification. YMHIV (n = 4), peer supporters (n = 21), and technical advisors (n = 4) were engaged as co-developers, shaping the resulting Boost intervention component at each phase. Peer support models may effectively reach young mothers, and consultation, co-creation, and integration with existing programming can offer rich insights to inform these models. We discuss the implications and promise of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Agnes Ronan
- Paediatric Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lynn Phillips
- Paediatric Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharifah Nalugo
- Paediatric Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eugene Mupakile
- Paediatric Adolescent Treatment Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Don Operario
- Department of Behavior and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sociology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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11
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Kopo M, Lejone TI, Tschumi N, Glass TR, Kao M, Brown JA, Seiler O, Muhairwe J, Moletsane N, Labhardt ND, Amstutz A. Effectiveness of a peer educator-coordinated preference-based differentiated service delivery model on viral suppression among young people living with HIV in Lesotho: The PEBRA cluster-randomized trial. PLoS Med 2023; 20:e1004150. [PMID: 36595523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Southern and Eastern Africa is home to more than 2.1 million young people aged 15 to 24 years living with HIV. As compared with other age groups, this population group has poorer outcomes along the HIV care cascade. Young people living with HIV and the research team co-created the PEBRA (Peer Educator-Based Refill of ART) care model. In PEBRA, a peer educator (PE) delivered services as per regularly assessed patient preferences for medication pick-up, short message service (SMS) notifications, and psychosocial support. The cluster-randomized trial compared PEBRA model versus standard clinic care (no PE and ART refill done by nurses) in 3 districts in Lesotho. METHODS AND FINDINGS Individuals taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) aged 15 to 24 years at 20 clinics (clusters) were eligible. In the 10 clinics randomized to the intervention arm, participants were offered the PEBRA model, coordinated by a trained PE and supported by an eHealth application (PEBRApp). In the 10 control clusters, participants received standard nurse-coordinated care without any service coordination by a PE. The primary endpoint was 12-month viral suppression below 20 copies/mL. Analyses were intention-to-treat and adjusted for sex. From November 6, 2019 to February 4, 2020, we enrolled 307 individuals (150 intervention, 157 control; 218 [71%] female, median age 19 years [interquartile range, IQR, 17 to 22]). At 12 months, 99 of 150 (66%) participants in the intervention versus 95 of 157 (61%) participants in the control arm had viral suppression (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.79 to 2.03]; p = 0.327); 4 of 150 (2.7%) versus 1 of 157 (0.6%) had died (adjusted OR 4.12; 95% CI [0.45 to 37.62]; p = 0.210); and 12 of 150 (8%) versus 23 of 157 (14.7%) had transferred out (adjusted OR 0.53; 95% CI [0.25 to 1.13]; p = 0.099). There were no significant differences between arms in other secondary outcomes. Twenty participants (11 in intervention and 9 in control) were lost to follow-up over the entire study period. The main limitation was that the data collectors in the control clusters were also young peers; however, they used a restricted version of the PEBRApp to collect data and thus were not able to provide the PEBRA model. The trial was prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03969030). CONCLUSIONS Preference-based peer-coordinated care for young people living with HIV, compared to nurse-based care only, did not lead to conclusive evidence for an effect on viral suppression. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03969030, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03969030.
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Armoon B, Higgs P, Bayat AH, Bayani A, Mohammadi R, Ahounbar E. HIV risk perception and risk taking among people who inject drugs in Saveh, in Central Iran: findings from a national study. Journal of Substance Use 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2144503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Peter Higgs
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Amir-Hossien Bayat
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Azadeh Bayani
- Student Research Committee, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasool Mohammadi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ahounbar
- Orygen, The National Center of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Center for Youth Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Galea JT, Wong M, Ninesling B, Ramos A, Senador L, Sanchez H, Kolevic L, Matos E, Sanchez E, Errea RA, Lindeborg A, Benites C, Lecca L, Shin S, Franke MF. Patient and provider perceptions of a community-based accompaniment intervention for adolescents transitioning to adult HIV care in urban Peru: a qualitative analysis. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26019. [PMID: 36251163 PMCID: PMC9575940 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents living with HIV (ALWH) experience higher mortality rates compared to other age groups, exacerbated by the suboptimal transition from paediatric to adult HIV care, during which decreased adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and unsuppressed viremia are frequent. Care transition-a process lasting months or years-ideally prepares ALWH for adult care and can be improved by interventions that are youth-friendly and address psychosocial issues affecting ART adherence; however, such interventions are infrequently operationalized. Community-based accompaniment (CBA), in which laypeople provide individualized support and health system navigation, can improve health outcomes among adults with HIV. Here, we describe patient and provider perceptions of a novel HIV CBA intervention called "PASEO" for ALWH in Lima, Peru. METHODS PASEO consisted of six core elements designed to support ALWH during and after the transition to adult HIV care. During 2019-2021, community-based health workers provided tailored accompaniment for ALWH aged 15-21 years over 9 months, after which adolescent participants were invited to provide feedback in a focus group or in-depth interview. HIV care personnel were also interviewed to understand their perspectives on PASEO. A semi-structured interview guide probing known acceptability constructs was used. Qualitative data were analysed using a framework analysis approach and emergent themes were summarized with illustrative quotes. RESULTS We conducted five focus groups and 11 in-depth interviews among N = 26 ALWH and nine key-informant interviews with HIV care personnel. ALWH participants included males, females and one transgender female, and those with both early childhood and recent HIV infection. ALWH praised PASEO, attributing increased ART adherence to the project. Improved mental health, independence, self-acceptance and knowledge on how to manage their HIV were frequently cited. HIV professionals similarly voiced strong support for PASEO. Both ALWH and HIV professionals expressed hope that PASEO would be scaled. HIV professionals voiced concerns regarding financing PASEO in the future. CONCLUSIONS A multicomponent CBA intervention to increase ART adherence among ALWH in Peru was highly acceptable by ALWH and HIV programme personnel. Future research should determine the efficacy and economic impact of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome T Galea
- School of Social Work, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA.,College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Brennan Ninesling
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | | | | | | | - Lenka Kolevic
- Servicio de Infectologia, Instituto Nacional del Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru.,Programa de ITS, VIH/SIDA y hepatitis, Ministerio de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Eduardo Matos
- Programa de ITS, VIH/SIDA y hepatitis, Ministerio de Salud, Lima, Peru.,Servicio de Infectología, Hospital Nacional Arzobispo Loayza, Lima, Peru
| | - Eduardo Sanchez
- Servicio de Infectologia, Instituto Nacional del Salud del Niño, Lima, Peru.,Programa de ITS, VIH/SIDA y hepatitis, Ministerio de Salud, Lima, Peru.,Servicio de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Tropicales, Hospital Nacional Hipólito Unanue, Lima, Peru
| | - Renato A Errea
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Socios En Salud Sucursal Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Andrew Lindeborg
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos Benites
- Programa de ITS, VIH/SIDA y hepatitis, Ministerio de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Leonid Lecca
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Socios En Salud Sucursal Peru, Lima, Peru
| | - Sonya Shin
- Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Molly F Franke
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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14
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Step MM, McMillen Smith J, Lewis SA, Avery AK. Using the Positive Peers Mobile App to Improve Clinical Outcomes for Young People With HIV: Prospective Observational Cohort Comparison. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e37868. [PMID: 36170001 PMCID: PMC9557764 DOI: 10.2196/37868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disparities in HIV outcomes persist among racial, gender, and sexual minorities in the United States. Younger people face a greater risk of contracting HIV, often living without knowledge of their HIV status for long periods. The Positive Peers App (PPA) is a multifunctional HIV support tool designed to improve HIV-related clinical outcomes for young people with HIV. The app was designed according to the specifications of an in-care young adult HIV community in Northeast Ohio. Data provided in this study provide preliminary evidence of the usefulness of PPA as a relevant tool for engaging this clinical patient population in care and facilitating viral suppression. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to describe variations in PPA use and examine the associations between use and HIV clinical outcomes between self-selected user and nonuser cohorts in the same clinical population. METHODS The PPA was offered free of charge to persons with HIV, aged 13 to 34 years of age, diagnosed with HIV within the last 12 months, out of care for 6 months during the last 24 months, or not virally suppressed (HIV viral load >200 copies/mL) in the prior 24 months. Baseline and 6- and 12-month surveys were administered via an audio computer-assisted self-interviewing system to all participants. The app's user activity was tracked natively by the app and stored in a secure server. Participant demographic and HIV care data were extracted from clinical records within 12 months before the start of the study and across the duration of the study period. HIV care outcomes of PPA users (n=114) were compared with those of nonusers (n=145) at the end of the study period (n=259). RESULTS The analysis showed that younger PPA users (aged 13-24 years) were more likely to obtain HIV laboratories (adjusted odds ratio 2.85, 95% CI 1.03-7.90) and achieve sustained viral suppression than nonusers (adjusted odds ratio 4.2, 95% CI 1.2-13.9). CONCLUSIONS The PPA appears to help younger users sustain HIV suppression. The app offers an important tool for addressing this critical population. The PPA remains in the field and is currently being adopted by other localities to facilitate their efforts to end the HIV epidemic. Although our reported observational results require additional validation and stringent ongoing surveillance, the results represent our best efforts in a pilot study to provide a measure of efficacy for the PPA. Next steps include a large-scale evaluation of the PPA acceptability and effectiveness. Given the building evidence of user reports and outcomes, the freely available PPA could be a helpful tool for achieving Ending the HIV Epidemic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Step
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | | | - Steven A Lewis
- College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
- Center for Health Care Research and Policy, Population Health Research Institute, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine at The MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ann K Avery
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine at The MetroHealth System, Cleveland, OH, United States
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Lewis MA, Harshbarger C, Bann C, Marconi VC, Somboonwit C, Piazza MD, Swaminathan S, Burrus O, Galindo C, Borkowf CB, Marks G, Karns S, Zulkiewicz B, Ortiz A, Abdallah I, Garner BR, Courtenay-Quirk C. Effectiveness of an Interactive, Highly Tailored "Video Doctor" Intervention to Suppress Viral Load and Retain Patients With HIV in Clinical Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2022; 91:58-67. [PMID: 35972854 PMCID: PMC9377499 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine whether Positive Health Check, a highly tailored video doctor intervention, can improve viral suppression and retention in care. SETTING Four clinics that deliver HIV primary care. METHODS A hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation randomized trial design was used to test study hypotheses. Participants (N = 799) who were not virally suppressed, were new to care, or had fallen out of care were randomly assigned to receive Positive Health Check or the standard of care alone. The primary endpoint was viral load suppression, and the secondary endpoint was retention in care, both assessed at 12 months, using an intention-to-treat approach. A priori subgroup analyses based on sex assigned at birth and race were examined as well. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between Positive Health Check (N = 397) and standard of care (N = 402) for either endpoint. However, statistically significant group differences were identified from a priori subgroup analyses. Male participants receiving Positive Health Check were more likely to achieve suppression at 12 months than male participants receiving standard of care adjusted risk ratio [aRR] [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 1.14 (1.00 to 1.29), P = 0.046}. For retention in care, there was a statistically significant lower risk for a 6-month visit gap in the Positive Health Check arm for the youngest participants, 18-29 years old [aRR (95% CI) = 0.55 (0.33 to 0.92), P = 0.024] and the oldest participants, 60-81 years old [aRR (95% CI) = 0.49 (0.30 to 0.81), P = 0.006]. CONCLUSIONS Positive Health Check may help male participants with HIV achieve viral suppression, and younger and older patients consistently attend HIV care. REGISTRY NAME Positive Health Check Evaluation Trial. Trial ID: 1U18PS004967-01. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03292913.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Camilla Harshbarger
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Vincent C. Marconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Vaccine Center, and Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia; VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA
| | | | | | | | | | - Carla Galindo
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Craig B. Borkowf
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Gary Marks
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Cari Courtenay-Quirk
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Cluver LD, Sherr L, Toska E, Zhou S, Mellins CA, Omigbodun O, Li X, Bojo S, Thurman T, Ameyan W, Desmond C, Willis N, Laurenzi C, Nombewu A, Tomlinson M, Myeketsi N. From surviving to thriving: integrating mental health care into HIV, community, and family services for adolescents living with HIV. Lancet Child Adolesc Health 2022; 6:582-592. [PMID: 35750063 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(22)00101-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents are a crucial generation, with the potential to bring future social and economic success for themselves and their countries. More than 90% of adolescents living with HIV reside in sub-Saharan Africa, where their mental health is set against a background of poverty, familial stress, service gaps, and an HIV epidemic that is now intertwined with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this Series paper, we review systematic reviews, randomised trials, and cohort studies of adolescents living with and affected by HIV. We provide a detailed overview of mental health provision and collate evidence for future approaches. We find that the mental health burden for adolescents living with HIV is high, contributing to low quality of life and challenges with adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Mental health provision is scarce, infrastructure and skilled providers are missing, and leadership is needed. Evidence of effective interventions is emerging, including specific provisions for mental health (eg, cognitive behavioural therapy, problem-solving, mindfulness, and parenting programmes) and broader provisions to prevent drivers of poor mental health (eg, social protection and violence prevention). We provide evidence of longitudinal associations between unconditional government grants and improved mental health. Combinations of economic and social interventions (known as cash plus care) could increase mental health benefits. Scalable delivery models include task sharing, primary care integration, strengthening families, and a pyramid of provision that differentiates between levels of need, from prevention to the care of severe disorders. A turning point has now been reached, from which complacency cannot persist. We conclude that there is substantial need, available frameworks, and a growing evidence base for action while infrastructure and skill acquisition is built.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie D Cluver
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Lorraine Sherr
- Institute of Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Siyanai Zhou
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claude-Ann Mellins
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA; Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Olayinka Omigbodun
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Xiaoming Li
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Samuel Bojo
- Agency for Research and Development Initiative, Juba, South Sudan
| | - Tonya Thurman
- Highly Vulnerable Children Research Center, Cape Town, South Africa; Tulane University School of Public Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Chris Desmond
- Centre for Rural Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Christina Laurenzi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Amahle Nombewu
- Teen Advisory Group, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark Tomlinson
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queens University, Belfast, UK
| | - Noxolo Myeketsi
- Department of Information Systems, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Johnson‐Peretz J, Lebu S, Akatukwasa C, Getahun M, Ruel T, Lee J, Ayieko J, Mwangwa F, Owino L, Onyango A, Maeri I, Atwine F, Charlebois ED, Bukusi EA, Kamya MR, Havlir DV, Camlin CS. "I was still very young": agency, stigma and HIV care strategies at school, baseline results of a qualitative study among youth in rural Kenya and Uganda. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25 Suppl 1:e25919. [PMID: 35818888 PMCID: PMC9274360 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYAH) have the lowest rates of retention in HIV care and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence, partly due to the demands of school associated with this life stage, to HIV-related stigma and to fears of serostatus disclosure. We explore the implications of school-based stigma and disclosure on the development of agency during a critical life stage in rural Kenya and Uganda. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study in the baseline year of the SEARCH Youth study, a combination intervention using a life-stage approach among youth (15-24 years old) living with HIV in western Kenya and southwestern Uganda to improve viral load suppression and health outcomes. We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews in 2019 with three cohorts of purposively selected study participants (youth [n = 83], balanced for sex, life stage and HIV care status; recommended family members of youth [n = 33]; and providers [n = 20]). Inductive analysis exploring contextual factors affecting HIV care engagement revealed the high salience of schooling environments. RESULTS Stigma within school settings, elicited by non-consensual serostatus disclosure, medication schedules and clinic appointments, exerts a constraining factor around which AYAH must navigate to identify and pursue opportunities available to them as young people. HIV status can affect cross-generational support and cohort formation, as AYAH differ from non-AYAH peers because of care-related demands affecting schooling, exams and graduation. However, adolescents demonstrate a capacity to overcome anticipated stigma and protect themselves by selectively disclosing HIV status to trusted peers and caregivers, as they develop a sense of agency concomitant with this life stage. Older adolescents showed greater ability to seek out supportive relationships than younger ones who relied on adult caregivers to facilitate this support. CONCLUSIONS School is a potential site of HIV stigma and also a setting for learning how to resist such stigma. School-going adolescents should be supported to identify helpful peers and selectively disclose serostatus as they master decision making about when and where to take medications, and who should know. Stigma is avoided by fewer visits to the clinic; providers should consider longer refills, discreet packaging and long-acting, injectable ART for students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Johnson‐Peretz
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sarah Lebu
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Monica Getahun
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Theodore Ruel
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Joi Lee
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - James Ayieko
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | | | | | - Irene Maeri
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)NairobiKenya
| | | | - Edwin D. Charlebois
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)Center for AIDS Prevention StudiesSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Moses R. Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration (IDRC)KampalaUganda
- Department of MedicineMakerere University College of Health SciencesKampalaUganda
| | - Diane V. Havlir
- Division of HIVInfectious Diseases & Global MedicineDepartment of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Carol S. Camlin
- Department of ObstetricsGynecology, & Reproductive SciencesUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)San FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Department of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaSan Francisco (UCSF)Center for AIDS Prevention StudiesSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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Pembroke S, Rogerson S, Coyne I. Conducting a randomised controlled trial of a psychosocial intervention for adolescents with type 1 diabetes during COVID-19: recommendations to overcome the challenges complicated by inconsistent public health guidelines on research. Trials 2022; 23:362. [PMID: 35477434 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06314-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been very little guidance in Ireland and abroad, around the conduct of research, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in particular. This has led to inconsistent interpretations of public health guidelines for the conduct of research in hospitals. Consequently, challenges have arisen for researchers conducting RCTs, in relation to recruitment and retention. These challenges are amplified for RCTs of psychosocial interventions, where communication and physical contact play a major role in administering the RCT. Therefore, learning from other research studies is important. This study addresses the challenges in administering an RCT of a psychosocial intervention in two paediatric outpatient diabetes clinics in Dublin Ireland, including recommendations to overcome these. Recommendations include the following: (1) recognise research as an essential service; (2) hospital management should implement guidelines to ensure a consistent approach to the conduct of research during pandemics; (3) ensure that there is a mechanism for the provision of clear and effective communication before the clinic visit with patients, to reassure them and gain their trust; and (4) trial managers should make time to check in with their team every day, as they would do if they were in the office.
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Kelly J, Gittings L, Laurenzi C, Glinski CD, Mangqalaza H, Ralayo N, Langwenya N, Sidloyi L, Mbiko A, Taleni B, Saliwe B, Toska E. HIV and SRH healthcare delivery experiences of South African healthcare workers and adolescents and young people during COVID-19. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2022; 27:155-166. [PMID: 36004413 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2108080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
While substantial research has emerged from the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as from studies with adolescent populations, there has been a dearth of research focused in South Africa on the context-specific experiences of healthcare workers (HCWs) and the adolescents and young people (AYP) to whom they provide services. This article documents the experiences of provision and receipt of HIV and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services during the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of South African HCWs (n = 13) and AYP (n = 41, ages 17-29). Findings highlight several barriers to accessing comprehensive HIV and SRH services during the pandemic including lockdown-related mobility restrictions (reported by HCWs), prioritisation of COVID-19 above other healthcare needs, longer health facility waiting times, poor treatment by HCWs (reported by AYP), discomfort and perceived stigma from having to queue outside health facilities, and fear of contracting COVID-19 (reported by both groups). While HCWs reported that HIV and SRH services continued to be available during the pandemic, AYP described seeking these services - such as long-acting reversible contraception, check-ups for their babies and medical refills - and being told that because they were not considered emergency cases, they should return on a different date. By capturing diverse experiences and perspectives from both groups, our findings reiterate the growing call for health system investments to strengthen the delivery of adolescent services, including investing in appropriate channels of communication between young people and their healthcare providers (for example, through adolescent peer supporters or community healthcare workers) and differentiated models of service delivery (for example, multi-month ART refills and community pick-ups). Closing the gap between the experiences and needs of adolescents and the healthcare workers who serve them may support young people and HCWs in buffering against changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kelly
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Lesley Gittings
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Laurenzi
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,Institute for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Charné Dee Glinski
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,Oxford Research South Africa, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Hlokoma Mangqalaza
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Nokubonga Ralayo
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | | | - Lulama Sidloyi
- Oxford Research South Africa, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amanda Mbiko
- Oxford Research South Africa, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Babalwa Taleni
- Oxford Research South Africa, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Bongiwe Saliwe
- Oxford Research South Africa, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elona Toska
- Centre for Social Science Research, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
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21
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Costa-Cordella S, Rossi A, Grasso-Cladera A, Duarte J, Cortes CP. Characteristics of psychosocial interventions to improve ART adherence in people living with HIV: A systematic review. PLOS Glob Public Health 2022; 2:e0000956. [PMID: 36962602 PMCID: PMC10021974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The HIV/AIDS pandemic continues to be a significant global public health crisis. The main HIV/AIDS treatment is the antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is highly effective but depends on the patient's adherence to be successful. However, the adherence to antiretroviral therapy remains unsatisfactory across different populations, which raises considerable difficulties at both individual and collective levels. Suboptimal adherence to ART can be overcome through multidisciplinary management that includes evidence-based psychosocial interventions. Existing reviews on these interventions have focused mainly on studies with experimental designs, overlooking valuable interventions whose evidence comes from different study designs. Here, we aimed to carry out a comprehensive review of the current research on psychosocial interventions for ART adherence and their characteristics including studies with different designs. We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines. We searched five databases (Pubmed, EBSCO, LILACS, WoS and SCIELO) for articles reporting a psychosocial intervention to improve treatment adherence for people living with HIV (adults). The quality of each study was analyzed with standardized tools, and data were summarized using a narrative synthesis method. Twenty-three articles were identified for inclusion, and they demonstrated good to fair quality. Individual counseling was the most frequent intervention, followed by SMS reminders, education, and group support. Most interventions combined different strategies and self-efficacy was the most common underlying theoretical framework. This review provides insight into the main characteristics of current psychosocial interventions designed to improve ART treatment adherence. PROSPERO number: CRD42021252449.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanella Costa-Cordella
- Centro de Estudios en Psicología Clínica y Psicoterapia (CEPPS), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
- Instituto Milenio Depresión y Personalidad (MIDAP), Santiago, Chile
| | - Alejandra Rossi
- Centro de Estudios en Neurociencia Humana y Neuropsicología (CENHN), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Aitana Grasso-Cladera
- Centro de Estudios en Psicología Clínica y Psicoterapia (CEPPS), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Estudios en Neurociencia Humana y Neuropsicología (CENHN), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Javiera Duarte
- Centro de Estudios en Psicología Clínica y Psicoterapia (CEPPS), Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
- Instituto Milenio Depresión y Personalidad (MIDAP), Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia P Cortes
- Hospital Clínico San Borja Arriarán & Fundación Arriarán, Santiago, Chile
- Medicine Departament, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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22
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Saberi P, Eskaf S, Campbell CK, Neilands TB, Sauceda JA, Dubé K. Exploration of a Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale's association with antiretroviral adherence among young adults living with HIV in the United States. Mhealth 2022; 8:23. [PMID: 35928514 PMCID: PMC9343971 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-21-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adults living with HIV (YLWH) have suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV care outcomes. Mobile health technologies are increasingly used to deliver interventions to address HIV health outcomes. However, not all YLWH have equal and consistent access to mobile technologies. METHODS Using our novel Mobile Technology Vulnerability Scale (MTVS) to evaluate how vulnerable an individual feels with regard to their personal access to mobile technology in the past 6 months, we conducted a cross-sectional online survey with 271 YLWH (18-29 years) in the US to evaluate the relationships between MTVS and self-reported ART adherence. RESULTS Participants reported changes in phone numbers (25%), stolen (14%) or lost (22%) phones, and disconnections of phone service due to non-payment (39%) in the past 6 months. On a scale of 0 to 1 (0 having no mobile technology vulnerability and 1 having complete mobile technology vulnerability), participants had a mean MTVS of 0.33 (SD =0.26). Black and financially constrained participants had the highest MTVS, which was significantly higher that other racial/ethnic and financially non-constrained groups, respectively. Higher MTVS was significantly associated with ART non-adherence and non-persistence. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest the need to measure MTVS to recognize pitfalls when using mobile health interventions and identify populations whose inconsistent mobile technology access may be related to worse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parya Saberi
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shadi Eskaf
- School of Government, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chadwick K. Campbell
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Torsten B. Neilands
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John A. Sauceda
- Division of Prevention Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Karine Dubé
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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23
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Ford N, Eshun-Wilson I, Ameyan W, Newman M, Vojnov L, Doherty M, Geng E. Future directions for HIV service delivery research: Research gaps identified through WHO guideline development. PLoS Med 2021; 18:e1003812. [PMID: 34555010 PMCID: PMC8496797 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nathan Ford and co-authors discuss the systematic identification of research gaps in improving HIV service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Ford
- Department of HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ingrid Eshun-Wilson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Wole Ameyan
- Department of HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Morkor Newman
- Department of HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lara Vojnov
- Department of HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Meg Doherty
- Department of HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elvin Geng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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