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Boardman E, Boffito M, Chadwick DR, Cheserem E, Kabagambe S, Kasadha B, Elliott C. Tackling late HIV diagnosis: Lessons from the UK in the COVID-19 era. Int J STD AIDS 2024; 35:244-253. [PMID: 38016099 PMCID: PMC10908195 DOI: 10.1177/09564624231202287] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Late diagnosis of HIV is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and an increased risk of non-infectious comorbidities. On a societal level, late diagnosis leads to higher treatment and healthcare costs and is a major driver of HIV transmission. Despite improvements in other areas of the HIV care pathway, late diagnosis remains an individual and public health concern globally. OBJECTIVE To examine the barriers to HIV testing and highlight successful strategies to improve prompt diagnosis. This review describes the prevalence of late diagnosis in the UK and discusses key factors that contribute to late diagnosis, including the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. Late HIV diagnosis is lower in the UK than in most other European countries. In this review, pilot projects and ongoing initiatives that have reduced late diagnosis in the UK are highlighted; moreover, further strategies for improving prompt diagnosis are suggested. CONCLUSIONS Insufficient testing is the fundamental reason for late HIV diagnosis, with societal, systemic, and individual factors all contributing to inadequate testing. Improving access to testing, removing barriers to health-seeking behaviour, and ensuring all people with HIV indicator conditions are promptly tested are key to reducing the rates of late diagnosis globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Boardman
- The Northern Contraception, Sexual Health and HIV Service, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK
| | - Marta Boffito
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
- Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Bakita Kasadha
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Abrantes R, Pimentel V, Miranda MNS, Silva AR, Diniz A, Ascenção B, Piñeiro C, Koch C, Rodrigues C, Caldas C, Morais C, Faria D, Gomes da Silva E, Teófilo E, Monteiro F, Roxo F, Maltez F, Rodrigues F, Gaião G, Ramos H, Costa I, Germano I, Simões J, Oliveira J, Ferreira J, Poças J, Saraiva da Cunha J, Soares J, Fernandes S, Mansinho K, Pedro L, Aleixo MJ, Gonçalves MJ, Manata MJ, Mouro M, Serrado M, Caixeiro M, Marques N, Costa O, Pacheco P, Proença P, Rodrigues P, Pinho R, Tavares R, Correia de Abreu R, Côrte-Real R, Serrão R, Sarmento e Castro R, Nunes S, Faria T, Baptista T, Simões D, Mendão L, Martins MRO, Gomes P, Pingarilho M, Abecasis AB. Determinants of HIV late presentation among men who have sex with men in Portugal (2014-2019): who's being left behind? Front Public Health 2024; 12:1336845. [PMID: 38500732 PMCID: PMC10947991 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1336845] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction HIV late presentation (LP) remains excessive in Europe. We aimed to analyze the factors associated with late presentation in the MSM population newly diagnosed with HIV in Portugal between 2014 and 2019. Methods We included 391 newly HIV-1 diagnosed Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), from the BESTHOPE project, in 17 countrywide Portuguese hospitals. The data included clinical and socio-behavioral questionnaires and the viral genomic sequence obtained in the drug resistance test before starting antiretrovirals (ARVs). HIV-1 subtypes and epidemiological surveillance mutations were determined using different bioinformatics tools. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between predictor variables and late presentation (LP). Results The median age was 31 years, 51% had a current income between 501-1,000 euros, 28% were migrants. 21% had never been tested for HIV before diagnosis, with 42.3% of MSM presenting LP. 60% were infected with subtype B strains. In the multivariate regression, increased age at diagnosis, higher income, lower frequency of screening, STI ever diagnosed and higher viral load were associated with LP. Conclusion Our study suggests that specific subgroups of the MSM population, such older MSM, with higher income and lower HIV testing frequency, are not being targeted by community and clinical screening services. Overall, targeted public health measures should be strengthened toward these subgroups, through strengthened primary care testing, expanded access to PrEP, information and promotion of HIV self-testing and more inclusive and accessible health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Abrantes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Victor Pimentel
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mafalda N. S. Miranda
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Silva
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - António Diniz
- U. Imunodeficiência, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bianca Ascenção
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Carmela Piñeiro
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmo Koch
- Centro de Biologia Molecular, Serviço de Imunohemoterapia do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Rodrigues
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cátia Caldas
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Morais
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Domitília Faria
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | | | - Eugénio Teófilo
- Serviço de Medicina 2.3, Hospital de Santo António dos Capuchos, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fátima Monteiro
- Centro de Biologia Molecular, Serviço de Imunohemoterapia do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fausto Roxo
- Hospital de Dia de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Distrital de Santarém, Santarém, Portugal
| | - Fernando Maltez
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Curry Cabral, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Rodrigues
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Guilhermina Gaião
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Hospital de Sta Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helena Ramos
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Costa
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Germano
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Simões
- Serviço de Medicina 1.4, Hospital de São José, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joaquim Oliveira
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Ferreira
- Serviço de Medicina 2, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - José Poças
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal, Portugal
| | - José Saraiva da Cunha
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jorge Soares
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Fernandes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kamal Mansinho
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Liliana Pedro
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | | | | | - Maria José Manata
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital Curry Cabral, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Margarida Mouro
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Aveiro, Centro Hospitalar Baixo Vouga, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Serrado
- U. Imunodeficiência, Hospital Pulido Valente, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Micaela Caixeiro
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Dr. Fernando da Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Nuno Marques
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Garcia da Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - Olga Costa
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Biologia Molecular, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Pacheco
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Dr. Fernando da Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Paula Proença
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Faro, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Paulo Rodrigues
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Raquel Pinho
- Serviço de Medicina 3, Hospital de Portimão, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Portimão, Portugal
| | - Raquel Tavares
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Correia de Abreu
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Unidade de Local de Saúde de Matosinhos, Hospital Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Rita Côrte-Real
- Serviço de Patologia Clínica, Biologia Molecular, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rosário Serrão
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Sofia Nunes
- Serviço de Infeciologia, Hospital de Aveiro, Centro Hospitalar Baixo Vouga, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Telo Faria
- Unidade Local de Saúde do Baixo Alentejo, Hospital José Joaquim Fernandes, Beja, Portugal
| | - Teresa Baptista
- Serviço de Doenças Infeciosas, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniel Simões
- Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos (GAT), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luis Mendão
- Grupo de Ativistas em Tratamentos (GAT), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M. Rosário O. Martins
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Perpétua Gomes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular (LMCBM, SPC, CHLO-HEM), Lisbon, Portugal
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| | - Marta Pingarilho
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana B. Abecasis
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, NOVA University of Lisbon (IHMT/UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
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Simon KA, Driver R, Rathus T, Cole A, Kalinowski J, Watson RJ, Eaton LA. HIV Information Avoidance, HIV Stigma, and Medical Mistrust among Black Sexual Minority Men in the Southern United States: Associations with HIV Testing. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:12-18. [PMID: 37955807 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04218-6] [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: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Uptake of HIV testing is a critical step in the HIV prevention and treatment care cascade. Barriers to HIV testing, however, remain and innovative research in this area is warranted to improve uptake of testing. As such, we investigated the role of HIV information avoidance - a novel construct potentially related to HIV testing. We analyzed this construct in relation to other factors known to impact HIV testing, namely HIV stigma and medical mistrust. Multiple linear regression analyses indicated that HIV information avoidance was negatively associated with HIV testing, while medical mistrust was positively associated with HIV testing. HIV testing stigma was not associated with HIV testing. This work contributes to the developing literature on HIV information avoidance and its relationships with HIV stigma and HIV testing uptake. Further, these findings can inform HIV testing interventions which often do not focus on HIV information avoidance. Future research on the mechanisms of information avoidance that are amenable to intervention, and the temporal ordering of the relationship between information avoidance and HIV testing is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay A Simon
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, 1985 Buford Ave St. Paul, Minneapolis, MN, 55108, USA.
| | - Redd Driver
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York State, NY, USA
| | - Taylor Rathus
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences Storrs, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ayeisha Cole
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences Storrs, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Jolaade Kalinowski
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences Storrs, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Ryan J Watson
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences Storrs, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Lisa A Eaton
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences Storrs, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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4
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Beer L, Williams D, Tie Y, McManus T, Yuan A(X, Crim SM, Demeke HB, Creel D, Blackwell AD, Craw JA, Weiser J. The Capacity of HIV Care Facilities to Implement Strategies Recommended by the Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative: The Medical Monitoring Project Facility Survey. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2023; 94:290-300. [PMID: 37643411 PMCID: PMC10615730 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000003290] [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: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data are needed to assess the capacity of HIV care facilities to implement recommended Ending the HIV Epidemic activities. SETTING US HIV care facilities. METHODS We analyzed 2021 survey data from 514 facilities that were recruited from a census of facilities providing care to a national probability sample of US adults with HIV. We present weighted estimates of facility characteristics, services, and policies and estimates of the proportion of all US HIV patients attending these facilities. RESULTS Among HIV care facilities, 37% were private practices, 72% were in areas with population >1 million, and 21% had more than 1000 HIV patients. Most provided preexposure prophylaxis (83%) and postexposure prophylaxis (84%). More than 67% of facilities provided HIV-specific stigma or discrimination training for all staff (covering 70% of patients) and 66% provided training on cultural competency (covering 74% of patients). A majority of patients attended facilities that provided on-site access to HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) transmission risk reduction counseling (89%); fewer had on-site access to treatment for substance use disorders (35%). We found low provision of on-site assistance with food banks or meal delivery (14%) and housing (33%). Approximately 71% of facilities reported using data to systematically monitor patient retention in care. On-site access to adherence tools was available at 58% of facilities; 29% reported notifying patients of missed prescription pickups. CONCLUSION Results indicate some strengths that support Ending the HIV Epidemic-recommended strategies among HIV care facilities, such as high availability of preexposure prophylaxis/postexposure prophylaxis, as well as areas for improvement, such as provision of staff antistigma trainings and adherence supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Beer
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Yunfeng Tie
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Timothy McManus
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Stacy M. Crim
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hanna B. Demeke
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Angela D. Blackwell
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jason A. Craw
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John Weiser
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Zamudio-Haas S, Koester K, Venegas L, Salinas A, Herrera C, Gutierrez-Mock L, Welborn L, Deutsch MB, Sevelius J. "Entre Nosotras:" a qualitative study of a peer-led PrEP project for transgender latinas. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1013. [PMID: 37730598 PMCID: PMC10510224 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09707-x] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) remains low among transgender people as compared to other subgroups, despite high rates of HIV acquisition. In California, Latinx people comprise 40% of the population and Latina transgender women experience some of the highest burden of HIV of any subgroup, indicating a critical need for appropriate services. With funding from the California HIV/AIDS Research Programs, this academic-community partnership developed, implemented, and evaluated a PrEP project that co-located HIV services with gender affirming care in a Federally Qualified Heath Center (FQHC). Trans and Latinx staff led intervention adaptation and activities. METHODS This paper engages qualitative methods to describe how a PrEP demonstration project- Triunfo- successfully engaged Spanish-speaking transgender Latinas in services. We conducted 13 in-depth interviews with project participants and five interviews with providers and clinic staff. Interviews were conducted in Spanish or English. We conducted six months of ethnographic observation of intervention activities and recorded field notes. We conducted thematic analysis. RESULTS Beneficial elements of the intervention centered around three intertwined themes: creating trusted space, providing comprehensive patient navigation, and offering social support "entre nosotras" ("between us women/girls"). The combination of these factors contributed to the intervention's success supporting participants to initiate and persist on PrEP, many of whom had previously never received healthcare. Participants shared past experiences with transphobia and concerns around discrimination in a healthcare setting. Developing trust proved foundational to making participants feel welcome and "en casa/ at home" in the healthcare setting, which began from the moment participants entered the clinic and continued throughout their interactions with staff and providers. A gender affirming, bilingual clinician and peer health educators (PHE) played a critical part in intervention development, participant recruitment, and patient navigation. CONCLUSIONS Our research adds nuance to the existing literature on peer support services and navigation by profiling the multifaced roles that PHE served for participants. PHE proved instrumental to empowering participants to overcome structural and other barriers to healthcare, successfully engaging a group who previously avoided healthcare in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Zamudio-Haas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Kim Koester
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Luz Venegas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ariana Salinas
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Cinthya Herrera
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Luis Gutierrez-Mock
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Layla Welborn
- La Clinica de La Raza, 3451 East 12th Street, CA, 94601, Oakland, USA
| | - Madeline B Deutsch
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jae Sevelius
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, CA, 94158, San Francisco, USA
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Forney DJ, Sheehan DM, Dale SK, Li T, De La Rosa M, Spencer EC, Sanchez M. The Impact of HIV-Related Stigma on Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Retention in HIV Care Among Adults Living with HIV in Florida. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01715-1. [PMID: 37495905 PMCID: PMC10811278 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01715-1] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our study examines the effects of distinct HIV stigma subtypes on retention in care and racial-ethnic differences among persons with HIV (PWH). METHODS Using Florida Medical Monitoring Project 2015-2017 data, we analyzed patients' clinical and behavioral characteristics. We analyzed 89,889 PWH in Florida (50.0% non-Hispanic Blacks, 20.8% Hispanics, 29.2% non-Hispanic whites). HIV stigma subtypes, negative self-image, anticipated stigma, personalized stigma, and retention in care were examined with logistic regressions. RESULTS People with high negative self-image and anticipated stigma were less likely to be retained (CI: 0.84-0.92; 0.47-0.53). The association between HIV-related stigma subtypes and retention in care differed between Black, White, and Hispanic participants. Negative self-image was associated with higher retention rates among Hispanics (CI: 5.64-9.26) and Whites (CI: 1.04-1.27), while low retention rates among Blacks (0.617-0.686). The likelihood of staying in care was lower across all racial-ethnic groups when the anticipated stigma was high or moderate. In contrast, personalized stigma increased retention across all racial-ethnic groups. CONCLUSION Results showed that distinct types of HIV stigma differentially impact retention, and these associations differ by race and ethnicity. Future interventions should address the effect HIV stigma subtypes have on racially minoritized PWH retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick J Forney
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA.
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA.
- Center for HIV Research and Mental Health (CHARM), University of Miami, Coral Gables, USA.
| | - Diana M Sheehan
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Miami, USA
| | - Sannisha K Dale
- Center for HIV Research and Mental Health (CHARM), University of Miami, Coral Gables, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Miami, USA
| | - Tan Li
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Mario De La Rosa
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | | | - Mariana Sanchez
- Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, USA
- Center for Research on U.S. Latino HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse (CRUSADA), Florida International University, Miami, USA
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Abstract
Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) is the scientific fact that HIV cannot be transmitted when an individual is virally suppressed. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to greatly reduce HIV stigma and its negative effects. However, U = U is not widely known. Given that Twitter has the potential to raise awareness of health issues, the purpose of this study was to analyze the content of the #UequalsU on Twitter. The results showed that mentioning sex and mentioning love were strong predictors that a tweet would be liked and retweeted. This information could help to spread the message of U = U more widely and potentially lessen HIV stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Schwartz
- Department of Communication Studies, Northeastern University
| | - Josh Grimm
- Manship School of Mass Communication, Louisiana State University
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8
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Wiginton JM, Maksut JL, Scheim AI, Zlotorzynska M, Sanchez TH, Baral SD. Intersecting Sexual Behavior and Gender Identity Stigmas Among Transgender Women in the United States: Burden and Associations with Sexual Health. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-04028-w. [PMID: 36952112 PMCID: PMC10034890 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04028-w] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, a context of multiple marginalization shapes sexual health disparities experienced by transgender women. Using data from 396 transgender women with negative or unknown HIV status, we performed exploratory factor analysis on responses to gender identity and sexual behavior stigma items and regressed sexual health outcomes on extracted factors via modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation. Overall, 97.2% of participants endorsed ≥ 1 gender identity stigma; 67.2% endorsed ≥ 1 sexual behavior stigma; and 66.9% endorsed ≥ 1 of each. Extracted factors included gender-identity social stigma, reflecting experiences related to family, fearfulness in public, and verbal harassment (α = 0.68); gender-identity institutional stigma/violence, reflecting experiences related to healthcare, police interactions, and interpersonal violence (α = 0.73); and global sexual behavior stigma, reflecting experiences related to family, friends, and healthcare, as well as police interactions, fearfulness in public, verbal harassment, and interpersonal violence (α = 0.83). Gender-identity social stigma was significantly, positively associated with testing for HIV and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Gender-identity institutional stigma/violence and global sexual behavior stigma were both significantly, positively associated with condomless anal sex, sex work, testing for HIV, testing for sexually transmitted infections, and use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Stigma-mitigation remains critical to improve quality of life and sexual health for transgender women in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Mark Wiginton
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Jessica L Maksut
- Center for Public Health & Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Ayden I Scheim
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Nesbitt Hall, 3215 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Maria Zlotorzynska
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1581 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Travis H Sanchez
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1581 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Center for Public Health & Human Rights, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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9
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Garcia DR, Fletcher J, Goldsamt L, Dunn Navarra AM. Integrative Review of Methods From Youth Risk Behavior Survey Secondary Data Analyses Examining HIV Syndemic Factors Among Adolescent Gay and Bisexual Men. Nurs Res 2023; 72:141-9. [PMID: 36729784 DOI: 10.1097/NNR.0000000000000632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent gay/bisexual men exhibit the highest prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infections. Ascertaining antecedents of behaviorally acquired HIV infections among adolescent gay/bisexual men can be challenging; however, these challenges can be overcome through the utilization of secondary data, such as the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. OBJECTIVE Syndemics theory suggests that HIV infections are not a singular phenomenon; instead, many infections occur at the intersection of syndemic factors, such as substance use, violence, and mental health. Our objective is to describe and synthesize research methods of secondary data analyses that examine syndemic factors in relation to HIV risk behavior outcomes among subsamples of adolescent gay/bisexual men. METHODS Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycInfo were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria were (a) peer-reviewed Youth Risk Behavior Survey secondary data analyses conducted in the United States after 1991, (b) subsamples with adolescent gay/bisexual men, (c) one or more syndemic factor(s), and (d) one or more HIV risk behavior outcome(s). We used the National Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tools for quality appraisal. RESULTS Of 1,036 citations retrieved, nine studies met inclusion criteria. Results included using logistic regression analysis and data from 2015 to 2017 in six studies and underpinnings with minority stress theory in four studies. Eight studies omitted race/ethnicity in subsamples and six grouped lesbians with adolescent gay/bisexual men. Seven studies examined substance use, six examined violence, and five examined mental health. Condom use and number of partners were the most studied HIV risk behavior outcomes in four studies, whereas intercourse in the last 3 months was an outcome in only one study. Protective factors were not present. CONCLUSION Limitations found the need to highlight better inclusion of race/ethnicity and sexual orientation. Adding contemporary survey items is also necessary, such as nonbinary sex and gender identity, access to HIV prevention (condoms, HIV testing, and preexposure prophylaxis), and experiences with stigma, to elucidate risk behaviors among populations disproportionately affected by HIV infections, including Blacks/African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos.
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10
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Magno L, Pereira M, de Castro CT, Rossi TA, Azevedo LMG, Guimarães NS, Dourado I. HIV Testing Strategies, Types of Tests, and Uptake by Men Who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:678-707. [PMID: 35984608 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effectiveness of strategies and types of tests on HIV testing uptake by men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW), and in reaching PLWH. Articles published up to July 2020 were identified from major electronic databases and grey literature. Data were extracted and assessed for risk of bias. Estimates were pooled using random-effect meta-analysis while heterogeneity was evaluated by Cochran's Q test and I2. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020192740). Of 6820 titles, 263 studies (n = 67,288 participants) were included. The testing strategies reported in most studies were community- (71.2%) and facility-based (28.8%). Highest uptake, with facility-based testing, occurred and reached more PLWH while with standard laboratory tests, it occurred with the highest HIV prevalence among MSM. However, urine test showed a highest rate of new HIV infection. Multiple test combinations had the highest uptake and reached more PLWH among TGW. Various testing strategies, considering barriers and regional differences, and different test types, need be considered, to increase uptake among MSM and TGW.
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11
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Chautrakarn S, Ong-Artborirak P, Naksen W, Thongprachum A, Wungrath J, Chariyalertsak S, Stonington S, Taneepanichskul S, Assanangkornchai S, Kessomboon P, Neelapaichit N, Aekplakorn W. Stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) among general adult population: the results from the 6 th Thai National Health Examination Survey (NHES VI). J Glob Health 2023; 13:04006. [PMID: 36637802 PMCID: PMC9838688 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Thailand has an ongoing action plan to reduce human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) discrimination and stigma. We aimed to monitor the level of stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) among the general adult population and to investigate its related factors. Methods This study was based on data from the 6th Thai National Health Examination Survey, a large-scale country-wide survey in 2019-2020. We used a multistage sampling technique and included 11 843 adults aged 20 to 59. We collected data through face-to-face interviews which included six items related to HIV stigma domains. We weighted all analyses to account for the probability of sampling the Thai population aged 20 to 59 years. Results We found that anticipated stigma had the highest percentage of negative stigmatizing attitude responses (78.5%), followed by perceived stigma (66.6%), fear of HIV infection (54.4%), and social judgment (28.2%). Regarding the UNAIDS global indicator for discriminatory attitude, 48.6% of respondents had negative perceptions to questions about experienced stigma or discrimination. Multiple logistic regression showed that factors associated with discriminatory attitudes toward PLWHA were being aged 20-39 (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18-1.47) or 50-59 (aOR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.09-1.40) compared to being aged 40-49, being Muslim compared to Buddhist (aOR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.46-2.06), being married compared to being single (aOR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.04-1.28), holding certificate degree or higher compared to not studying or studying at a primary level (aOR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.68-0.97), living in the Northeast (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.12-1.45) and Bangkok (aOR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.12-1.51) compared to living in the North, having no HIV/AIDS infected relative or acquaintance compared to having an HIV/AIDS infected relative or acquaintance (aOR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.41-1.73), and not obtaining an HIV test compared to obtaining it (aOR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.02-1.19). Conclusions We found that HIV stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes toward PLWHA decreased, but remained concerning among Thai adult people. A public education and awareness campaign, as well as an intervention to reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination in the country's health care facilities, must still be maintained.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Warangkana Naksen
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Jukkrit Wungrath
- Faculty of Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Scott Stonington
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Anthropology, University of Michigan, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Wichai Aekplakorn
- Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand,National Health Examination Survey Office, Bangkok, Thailand
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12
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Sison OT, Baja ES, Bermudez ANC, Quilantang MIN, Dalmacion GV, Guevara EG, Garces-Bacsal RM, Hemingway C, Taegtmeyer M, Operario D, Biello KB. Association of anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust on preference for HIV self-testing among cisgender men who have sex with men in the Philippines. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2362. [PMID: 36527003 PMCID: PMC9756449 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14834-x] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New HIV infections in the Philippines are increasing at an alarming rate. However, over three quarters of men who have sex with men (MSM) have never been tested for HIV. HIV self-testing (HIVST) may increase overall testing rates by removing barriers, particularly fear of stigmatization and mistrust of providers. This study aimed to determine if these factors are associated with preference for HIVST among Filipino cisgender MSM (cis-MSM), and whether there is an interaction between anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust on preference for HIVST. METHODS We conducted secondary analysis of a one-time survey of 803 cis-MSM who were recruited using purposive sampling from online MSM dating sites and MSM-themed bar locations in Metro Manila, Philippines. Summary statistics were computed to describe participant characteristics. Multivariable modified Poisson regression analyses were conducted to determine if anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust were associated with preference for HIVST among cis-MSM. Other variables such as age, education, monthly income, relationship status, HIV serostatus, and knowing where to get HIV testing were the minimal sufficient adjustment set in the analyses. RESULTS Average age of participants was 28.6 years (SD = 8.0); most had received college degrees (73%) and were employed (80%). Most respondents (81%) preferred facility-based testing, while 19% preferred HIVST. A high percentage of participants reported anticipated HIV testing stigma (66%) and provider mistrust (44%). Anticipated HIV testing stigma (aPR = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.01-2.25, p = 0.046) and provider mistrust (aPR = 1.49; 95% CI = 1.07-2.09, p = 0.020) were independently associated with a preference for HIVST. There was a positive, additive interaction between provider mistrust and anticipated HIV testing stigma on preference for HIVST (RERI = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.20-2.06; p = 0.017), indicating that the association between anticipated HIV testing stigma and preference for HIVST is greater among those with provider mistrust compared to those without provider mistrust. CONCLUSIONS HIVST should be offered as a supplement to traditional facility-based HIV testing services in the Philippines to expand testing and reach individuals who may not undergo testing due to anticipated HIV testing stigma and provider mistrust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia T. Sison
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA ,grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines ,grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Emmanuel S. Baja
- grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines ,grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Amiel Nazer C. Bermudez
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA ,grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Ma. Irene N. Quilantang
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA ,grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Department of Behavioral Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Godofreda V. Dalmacion
- grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Ernest Genesis Guevara
- grid.11159.3d0000 0000 9650 2179Institute of Clinical Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | - Rhoda Myra Garces-Bacsal
- grid.43519.3a0000 0001 2193 6666Department of Special Education, College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Charlotte Hemingway
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Palace Liverpool, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK
| | - Miriam Taegtmeyer
- grid.48004.380000 0004 1936 9764Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Palace Liverpool, Liverpool, L3 5QA UK ,grid.415970.e0000 0004 0417 2395Tropical Infectious Disease Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, L7 8XP UK
| | - Don Operario
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094The Philippine Health Initiative for Research, Service, and Training, Brown University Global Health Initiative, Providence, RI USA ,grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Katie B. Biello
- grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA ,grid.40263.330000 0004 1936 9094Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI USA
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13
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Kobrak P, Remien RH, Myers JE, Salcuni P, Edelstein Z, Tsoi B, Sandfort T. Motivations and Barriers to Routine HIV Testing Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:3563-3575. [PMID: 35536518 PMCID: PMC9550690 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03679-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In-depth qualitative interviews explored the experiences and understandings of men 18-39 years old who have sex with men that could facilitate or prevent HIV testing and routine HIV testing. For many men who tested frequently, testing and routine testing were motivated by awareness of the benefit of prompt treatment; public health and provider encouragement to test periodically; responsibility towards sexual partners; and wanting to share a recent HIV-negative test result when seeking sex online. For some men, any testing was impeded by anxiety around possible HIV diagnosis that made testing a stressful occasion that required time and energy to prepare for. This anxiety was often compounded by stigma related to sex between men, having condomless sex, or having HIV. Routine testing could be further stigmatized as some men felt judged by testing providers or partners if they asked for a test or said they tested frequently. We describe efforts to promote testing and routine testing by countering fear and stigma associated with HIV and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kobrak
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA.
| | - Robert H Remien
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Paul Salcuni
- Relevant Healthcare Technologies, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zoe Edelstein
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA
| | - Benjamin Tsoi
- New York City Health Department, HIV Prevention Program, 42-09 28 Street, Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA
| | - Theodorus Sandfort
- HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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14
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Dibble KE, Murray SM, Wiginton JM, Maksut JL, Lyons CE, Aggarwal R, Augustinavicius JL, Al-Tayyib A, Sey EK, Ma Y, Flynn C, German D, Higgins E, Anderson BJ, Menza TW, Orellana ER, Flynn AB, Wermuth PP, Kienzle J, Shields G, Baral SD. Associations between HIV testing and multilevel stigmas among gay men and other men who have sex with men in nine urban centers across the United States. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1179. [PMID: 36127682 PMCID: PMC9490978 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08572-4] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complex manifestation of stigma across personal, community, and structural levels and their effect on HIV outcomes are less understood than effects in isolation. Yet, multilevel approaches that jointly assesses HIV criminalization and personal sexual behavior stigma in relation to HIV testing have not been widely employed or have only focused on specific subpopulations. The current study assesses the association of three types of MSM-related sexual behavior-related stigma (family, healthcare, general social stigma) measured at both individual and site levels and the presence/absence of laws criminalizing HIV transmission with HIV testing behaviors to inform HIV surveillance and prevention efforts among HIV-negative MSM in a holistic and integrated way. Methods We included nine National HIV Behavioral Surveillance (NHBS) 2017 sites: Baltimore, MD; Denver, CO; Detroit, MI; Houston, TX; Long Island/Nassau-Suffolk, NY; Los Angeles, CA; Portland, OR; San Diego, CA; and Virginia Beach and Norfolk, VA. Multivariable generalized hierarchical linear modeling was used to examine how sexual behavior stigmas (stigma from family, anticipated healthcare stigma, general social stigma) measured at the individual and site levels and state HIV criminalization legislation (no, HIV-specific, or sentence-enhancement laws) were associated with past-year HIV testing behaviors across sites (n = 3,278). Results The majority of MSM across sites were tested for HIV in the past two years (n = 2,909, 95.4%) with the average number of times tested ranging from 1.79 (SD = 3.11) in Portland, OR to 4.95 (SD = 4.35) in Los Angeles, CA. In unadjusted models, there was a significant positive relationship between stigma from family and being tested for HIV in the past two years. Site-level HIV-specific criminalization laws were associated with an approximate 5% reduction in the prevalence of receiving any HIV test in the past two years after individual level stigma and sociodemographic covariate adjustments (PR = 0.94, 95% CI, 0.90–0.99). Conclusions Structural barriers faced by MSM persist and ending the HIV epidemic in the US requires a supportive legal environment to ensure effective engagement in HIV services among MSM. Home-based solutions, such as self-testing, used to deliver HIV testing may be particularly important in punitive settings while legal change is advocated for on the community and state levels. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-08572-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Dibble
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Sarah M Murray
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - John Mark Wiginton
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jessica L Maksut
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Carrie E Lyons
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Rohin Aggarwal
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jura L Augustinavicius
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Alia Al-Tayyib
- Denver Public Health & Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, 80204, USA
| | - Ekow Kwa Sey
- Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, 90012, USA
| | - Yingbo Ma
- Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, 90012, USA
| | - Colin Flynn
- Center for HIV Surveillance, Epidemiology, & Evaluation, Maryland Department of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
| | - Danielle German
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Emily Higgins
- Division of HIV and STI Programs, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Lansing, MI, 48909, USA
| | - Bridget J Anderson
- Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, 12237, USA
| | - Timothy W Menza
- HIV Data and Analysis Program, Oregon Health Authority, Portland, OR, 97232, USA
| | - E Roberto Orellana
- Regional Research Institute, Portland State University, Portland, OR, 97201, USA.,School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Anna B Flynn
- Surveillance & Federal Reporting Section, Maternal, Child, & Adolescent Health Division, California Department of Health,, San Francisco, CA, 94102, USA
| | - Paige Padgett Wermuth
- Division of Management Policy & Community Health (MPACH), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer Kienzle
- Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, HIV Surveillance, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | - Garrett Shields
- Division of Disease Prevention, Virginia Department of Health, HIV Surveillance, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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15
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Crowell TA, Nitayaphan S, Sirisopana N, Wansom T, Kitsiripornchai S, Francisco L, Li Q, Dear N, O'Connell RJ, Pitisuttithum P, Vasan S. Factors associated with testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in men who have sex with men and transgender women in Bangkok, Thailand. AIDS Res Ther 2022; 19:25. [PMID: 35729561 PMCID: PMC9210729 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-022-00449-0] [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: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Routine screening for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) facilitates early diagnosis and treatment, thereby preventing morbidity and onward transmission. We estimated the prevalence of prior HIV/STI testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Bangkok, Thailand, and identified factors associated with prior testing. Methods Cross-sectional analyses were performed using data collected at enrollment into an HIV incidence cohort. From April to October 2017, MSM and TGW were enrolled if they were aged 18–35 years, reported anal intercourse with a male or TGW partner, and reported behavioral vulnerability to HIV. Participants answered questions about demographics, sexual behaviors, and lifetime HIV/STI testing history. Multivariable robust Poisson regression was used to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for factors potentially associated with prior testing. Results Among 1,014 participants, 348 (34.3%) were TGW and the median age was 21.6 (interquartile range 20.0-24.8) years. Prior testing for HIV was reported by 421 (41.5%) and for other STIs by 268 (26.4%). HIV testing was more common among participants aged ≥ 22 years (RR 1.37 [95% CI 1.13–1.67]), with college education as compared to secondary or less (RR 1.37 [95% CI 1.08–1.72]), and who met male sexual partners online (RR 1.52 [95% CI 1.24–1.85]), but lower among participants attracted to both men and women as compared to men only (RR 0.64 [95% CI 0.51–0.81]) and who met male sexual partners in bars (RR 0.83 [95% CI 0.72–0.97]). Similar associations were observed with prior testing for other STIs, including increased testing among participants with college education (RR 1.52 [95% CI 1.11–2.09]) and who met male sexual partners online (RR 1.73 [95% CI 1.30–2.31]), but lower among participants attracted to both men and women (RR 0.70 [95% CI 0.51–0.96]) and who met male sexual partners in bars (RR 0.67 [95% CI 0.54–0.83]). Conclusions Despite behavioral vulnerability, prior testing for HIV and other STIs was uncommon. Online engagement strategies may be effectively reaching Thai MSM and TGW who meet sexual partners online, but new interventions are needed to encourage testing among younger, less educated, and bisexual MSM and TGW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor A Crowell
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA. .,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | | | | | - Tanyaporn Wansom
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand.,Dreamlopments Social Enterprise and Foundation, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Leilani Francisco
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Qun Li
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nicole Dear
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robert J O'Connell
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | - Sandhya Vasan
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA
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16
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Lutete P, Matthews DW, Sabounchi NS, Paige MQ, Lounsbury DW, Rodriguez N, Echevarria N, Usher D, Walker JJ, Dickerson A, Hillesheim J, Frye V. Intersectional Stigma and Prevention Among Gay, Bisexual, and Same Gender-Loving Men in New York City, 2020: System Dynamics Models. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:S444-S451. [PMID: 35763732 PMCID: PMC9241454 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306725] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To create causal loop diagrams that characterize intersectional stigma experiences among Black, gay, bisexual, same gender-loving, and other men who have sex with men and to identify intervention targets to reduce stigma and increase testing and prevention access. Methods. Between January and July 2020, we conducted focus groups and in-depth interviews with 80 expert informants in New York City, which were transcribed, coded, and analyzed. These qualitative insights were developed iteratively, visualized, and validated in a causal loop diagram (CLD) using Vensim software. Results. The CLD revealed 3 key feedback loops-medical mistrust and HIV transmission, serosorting and marginalization of Black and gay individuals, and family support and internalized homophobia-that contribute to intersectional HIV and related stigmas, homophobia, and systemic racism. On the basis of these results, we designed 2 novel intervention components to integrate into an existing community-level anti-HIV stigma and homophobia intervention. Conclusions. HIV stigma, systemic racism, and homophobia work via feedback loops to reduce access to and uptake of HIV testing, prevention, and treatment. Public Health Implications. The CLD method yielded unique insights into reciprocal feedback structures that, if broken, could interrupt stigmatization and discrimination cycles that impede testing and prevention uptake. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S4):S444-S451. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306725).
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Lutete
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - David W Matthews
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Nasim S Sabounchi
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Mark Q Paige
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - David W Lounsbury
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Noah Rodriguez
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Natalie Echevarria
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - DaShawn Usher
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Julian J Walker
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Alexis Dickerson
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Joseph Hillesheim
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
| | - Victoria Frye
- Priscila Lutete is with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Matthews, Mark Q. Paige, Noah Rodriguez, Alexis Dickerson, and Victoria Frye are with the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY. Nasim S. Sabounchi is with the Department of Health Policy and Management, Center for Systems and Community Design, City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, NY. David W. Lounsbury is with the Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Division of Health Behavior Research and Implementation Science, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY. Natalie Echevarria and Joseph Hillesheim are with the City College of New York, City University of New York, New York, NY. DaShawn Usher and Julian J. Walker are with the Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative, New York, NY
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17
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Smith LR, Shumskaia N, Kurmanalieva A, Patterson TL, Werb D, Blyum A, Algarin AB, Yeager S, Cepeda J. Cohort profile: the Kyrgyzstan InterSectional Stigma (KISS) injection drug use cohort study. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:53. [PMID: 35614508 PMCID: PMC9131652 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00633-5] [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: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Kyrgyzstan and other Eastern European and Central Asian countries, injection drug use and HIV-related intersectional stigma undermines HIV prevention efforts, fueling a rapidly expanding HIV epidemic. The Kyrgyzstan InterSectional Stigma (KISS) Injection Drug Use Cohort is the first study designed to assess the impact of drug use, methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and HIV stigma experiences among people who inject drugs (PWID) on HIV prevention service utilization. METHODS Adult PWID were recruited from Bishkek city and the surrounding rural Chuy Oblast region in northern Kyrgyzstan via modified time location sampling and snowball sampling. All participants completed a baseline rapid HIV test and interviewer-administered survey. A subsample of participants were prospectively followed for three months and surveyed to establish retention rates for future work in the region. Internal reliability of three parallel stigma measures (drug use, MMT, HIV) was evaluated. Descriptive statistics characterize baseline experiences across these three stigma types and HIV prevention service utilization, and assess differences in these experiences by urbanicity. RESULTS The KISS cohort (N = 279, 50.5% Bishkek, 49.5% Chuy Oblast) was mostly male (75.3%), ethnically Russian (53.8%), median age was 40 years old (IQR 35-46). Of the 204 eligible participants, 84.9% were surveyed at month 3. At baseline, 23.6% had a seropositive rapid HIV test. HIV prevention service utilization did not differ by urbanicity. Overall, we found 65.9% ever utilized syringe service programs in the past 6 months, 8.2% were utilizing MMT, and 60.8% met HIV testing guidelines. No participants reported PrEP use, but 18.5% had heard of PrEP. On average participants reported moderate levels of drug use (mean [M] = 3.25; α = 0.80), MMT (M = 3.24; α = 0.80), and HIV stigma (M = 2.94; α = 0.80). Anticipated drug use stigma from healthcare workers and internalized drug use stigma were significantly higher among PWID from Bishkek (p < 0.05), while internalized HIV stigma among PWID living with HIV was significantly greater among PWID from Chuy Oblast (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION The KISS cohort documents moderate levels of HIV-related intersectional stigma and suboptimal engagement in HIV prevention services among PWID in Kyrgyzstan. Future work will aim identify priority stigma reduction intervention targets to optimize HIV prevention efforts in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laramie R Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA.
| | - Natalia Shumskaia
- AIDS Foundation-East West in the Kyrgyz Republic, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
| | | | - Thomas L Patterson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dan Werb
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
- Centre On Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anna Blyum
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
| | - Angel B Algarin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
| | - Samantha Yeager
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mail Code 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0507, USA
| | - Javier Cepeda
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Mendonca CJ, Newton-John TRO, Bulsara SM. Psychosocial factors and quality of life in HIV. Australian Psychologist 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00050067.2022.2059338] [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: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carley J. Mendonca
- Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Toby R. O. Newton-John
- Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Shiraze M. Bulsara
- Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Psychology Unit, The Albion Centre, Surry Hills, NSW, Australia
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19
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Dyer TV, Turpin RE, Hawthorne DJ, Jain V, Sayam S, Mittal M. Sexual Risk Behavior and Lifetime HIV Testing: The Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:4372. [PMID: 35410050 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite the success of HIV prevention drugs such as PrEP, HIV incident transmission rates remain a significant problem in the United States. A life-course perspective, including experiences of childhood adversity, may be useful in addressing the HIV epidemic. This paper used 2019 BRFSS data to elucidate the role that childhood adversity plays in the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing. Participants (n = 58,258) completed self-report measures of HIV risk behaviors, HIV testing, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The median number ACEs in the sample was 1, with verbal abuse (33.9%), and parental separation (31.3%) being the most common ACEs reported. Bivariate findings showed that all ACEs were associated with increased HIV risk and testing. However, increased risk was not correlated with increased HIV testing, with the highest incongruence related to mental health problems of household member (53.48%). While both self-reported HIV risk and ACEs were positively associated with HIV testing, their interaction had a negative association with testing (aPR = 0.51, 95%CI 0.42, 0.62). The results highlight the need for targeted HIV prevention strategies for at-risk individuals with a history of childhood adversity.
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20
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Abstract
Stigma has a negative impact on health and wellbeing for gay and bisexual men (GBM). There is little research which assesses whether stigma from various sources affects access to different health care services. Further, those people who pay more attention to their stigmatised condition may be more likely to avoid health services. This study aimed to assess the association between sources of stigma and health care avoidance amongst a sample of GBM, as well as the role of heightened stigma sensitivity. The sample consisted of 1116 GBM in Australia who completed an online survey. Findings illustrate that those reporting any stigma were more likely to avoid health care services, while avoiding different types of health care was related to the source of the stigma. Greater stigma sensitivity was associated with avoidance of all health care services. GBM may come to health services with complex and potentially recurrent experiences of stigma. Working on the assumption that clients have a history of negative experiences in health care will increase the ability of services to work sensitively with GBM clients and ensure that access to health care amongst this group is increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Brener
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - T Broady
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - E Cama
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - C Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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21
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Iott BE, Loveluck J, Benton A, Golson L, Kahle E, Lam J, Bauermeister JA, Veinot TC. The impact of stigma on HIV testing decisions for gay, bisexual, queer and other men who have sex with men: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:471. [PMID: 35264132 PMCID: PMC8908600 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12761-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stigmatization may prompt gay, bisexual, queer and other men who have sex with men (GBQMSM) to avoid or delay HIV testing. There has been little attention to GBQMSMs’ perspectives about how stigma may influence their decisions about whether, where, and how often to get tested for HIV. Methods We conducted nine focus groups with 64 adult GBQMSM in Metropolitan Detroit, including HIV-negative men and people living with HIV (PLWH). Data were thematically analyzed deductively and inductively in three rounds. Results Three themes emerged regarding whether to get tested: (1) Perceived promiscuity, risk perceptions and HIV testing; (2) Fearing sexual rejection; and (3) Fearing friend and family member distancing and rejection. Themes concerning where to get tested included: (4) Conflating HIV testing and diagnosis; and (5) Seeking privacy and safety at specialized services. As for how often to get tested, themes included: (6) Reducing contact with healthcare providers due to intersectional stigma; (7) Responsibility and regular testing; and (8) HIV stigma and testing as routine care. Black participants articulated themes (3), (4), and (6) with greater frequency than other participants. Framing HIV testing as a personal responsibility may have created a “new stigma,” with unintended consequences not observed with “routine healthcare” messaging. Conclusions GBQMSMs’ perspectives indicate the potential for new foci for HIV testing promotion interventions based on stigma-related issues that they deem important. There is a need for interventions to challenge the “promiscuity” stereotype, and to reduce the sexual stigmatization of GBQMSM living with HIV/AIDS—especially online. Provider stigma requires both intervention and continued availability of specialized services. Future stigma-reduction interventions for Black GBQMSM could focus on building family support/acceptance, awareness of multiple testing options, and integrating LGBTQ-related issues into initiatives for racial justice in health care. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-022-12761-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley E Iott
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Health Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Akilah Benton
- Detroit Health Department, City of Detroit, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Leon Golson
- Unified - HIV Health and Beyond, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
| | - Erin Kahle
- School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jason Lam
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Tiffany C Veinot
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. .,Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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22
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Simelane MS, Chemhaka GB, Shongwe MC, Motsa MP, Dlamini LP. Factors associated with HIV testing among youth in a generalised hyperendemic setting: findings from a national survey in Eswatini. Afr J AIDS Res 2022; 21:41-48. [PMID: 35361059 DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2022.2039728] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Aim: Even though Eswatini was the first country in Africa to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets among people living with HIV nationally, youth aged 15-24 years lag behind in HIV testing. This study determined the overall prevalence of HIV testing among the youth and the factors associated with HIV testing.Methods: Data were analysed for 1 834 young people from the 2016-2017 Swaziland HIV Incidence Measurement Survey (SHIMS2) using multivariable logistic regression.Results: Overall, 66% of the young people had tested for HIV in the past 12 months before SHIMS2. Lower odds of HIV testing were observed among males, among those aged 15-17 years, the never married/cohabited, those with primary and secondary education, and among those who had high perceived stigma towards people living with HIV and AIDS. Youth from households classified in the poor and middle quintiles had higher odds of testing for HIV compared to those from rich households.Conclusion: Efforts to increase HIV testing should consider the sociodemographic and behavioural factors identified as determinants of HIV non-testing in this age group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maswati S Simelane
- Department of Statistics and Demography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni, Eswatini
| | - Garikayi B Chemhaka
- Department of Statistics and Demography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni, Eswatini
| | - Mduduzi Colani Shongwe
- Department of Midwifery Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eswatini, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | - Mfundi Ps Motsa
- College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lindelwa P Dlamini
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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23
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Stutterheim SE, Kuijpers KJR, Waldén MI, Finkenflügel RNN, Brokx PAR, Bos AER. Trends in HIV Stigma Experienced by People Living With HIV in the Netherlands: A Comparison of Cross-Sectional Surveys Over Time. AIDS Educ Prev 2022; 34:33-52. [PMID: 35192394 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2022.34.1.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We investigated whether HIV stigma has changed in recent years. We compared data on stigma settings and manifestations from 2007 (n = 667) and, specifically for health care, 2009 (n = 262), to data acquired in 2019/2020 (n = 258). Results showed reductions in stigma from friends, family, acquaintances, at work, in the financial services sector, and in media, but stigmatizing messages in media remained highly prevalent. Stigma in the LGBTQI+ community, with sexual partners, and while partying also remained prevalent and, disconcertingly, relatively unchanged. Stigma in health care increased. HIV stigma was positively related to psychological distress, and negatively related to social support and medication adherence. Further, most participants were familiar with U=U and PrEP, but 13.3% questioned the accuracy of U=U. Stigma reduction efforts should focus on reducing stigma in media, in the LGBTQI+ community and while dating, and in health care, with U=U as a key message.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Stutterheim
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Health Promotion/Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kyran J R Kuijpers
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Moon I Waldén
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Pieter A R Brokx
- The Dutch Association of People with HIV [HIV Vereniging], Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Arjan E R Bos
- Faculty of Psychology, Open University of the Netherlands, Heerlen, the Netherlands
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24
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Daniel NA, Hassan SA, Mohamed F, Sheikh N, Basualdo G, Schwartz R, Gebreselassie BT, Beyene YK, Gabreselassie L, Bayru K, Tadesse B, Libneh HA, Shidane M, Benalfew S, Ali A, Rao D, Kerani RP, Patel RC. Harambee! 2.0: The Impact of HIV-Related and Intersectional Stigmas on HIV Testing Behaviors Among African Immigrant Communities in Seattle, Washington. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:149-164. [PMID: 34368910 PMCID: PMC8349708 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
African immigrants are disproportionately affected by HIV compared to U.S.-born individuals, and early HIV testing is the key challenge in ending the HIV epidemic in these communities. HIV-related stigma appears to be the most significant barrier to testing for HIV among African communities in King County, WA. In this formative study, we conducted thirty key informant interviews and five focus group discussions (n = total 72 participants) with Ethiopian, Somali, and Eritrean people living with HIV, health professionals, religious and other community leaders, and lay community members in King County to better understand HIV-related and intersectional stigmas' impact on HIV testing behaviors. We used inductive coding and thematic analysis. Participants from all communities reported similar themes for HIV-related and intersectional stigmas' influences on HIV testing behaviors. Misconceptions or poor messaging, e.g., regarding treatability of HIV, as well as normative or religious/moral beliefs around pre/extramarital sex contributed to HIV-related stigma. Intersecting identities such as immigrant status, race/ethnicity, and having a non-English language preference, all intermingle to further influence access to the U.S. healthcare system, including for HIV testing. These findings can be used to inform future research on community-led approaches to addressing early HIV testing amongst African immigrant communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shukri A Hassan
- Department of Medicine, UW, 325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Farah Mohamed
- Department of Medicine, UW, 325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
- Somali Health Board, Tukwila, WA, USA
| | - Najma Sheikh
- Department of Global Health, UW, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Rahel Schwartz
- Ethiopian Community in Seattle, Seattle, WA, USA
- Ethiopian Health Board, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ahmed Ali
- Somali Health Board, Tukwila, WA, USA
- Department of Global Health, UW, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Deepa Rao
- Department of Global Health, UW, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Roxanne P Kerani
- Department of Medicine, UW, 325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Rena C Patel
- Department of Medicine, UW, 325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
- Department of Global Health, UW, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Teixeira JRB, Lima SVMA, Sousa ARD, Queiroz AAFLN, Barreto NMPV, Mendes IAC, Fronteira I, Sousa ÁFLD. Factores determinantes de la exposición sexual al VIH en adolescentes luso-brasileños: un análisis de rutas. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.6222.3713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumen Objetivo: analizar los efectos directos e indirectos de los factores determinantes de la exposición sexual al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana entre adolescentes hombres que tienen relaciones sexuales con hombres y las implicaciones para el cuidado en enfermería. Método: estudio transversal, realizado con 578 adolescentes luso-brasileños de 18 a 19 años. Se evaluaron las interrelaciones del estado civil, uso de aplicaciones de relación, práctica de chemsex, desinformación, credibilidad de la pareja, prácticas sexuales desafiantes y medidas de protección ineficaces sobre la exposición sexual al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana, a través de la técnica del Análisis de Rutas. Resultados: presentó un efecto directo significativo para la exposición sexual al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana: estado civil (β=-0,16), uso de aplicaciones (β=-0,30), prácticas sexuales desafiantes (β=0,48) y medidas de protección ineficaces (β=0,35). En las rutas indirectas: la credibilidad de la pareja influyó en medidas de protección ineficaces (β=0,77); tener una relación fija/poliamorosa influyó en el uso de aplicaciones de relación (β=-0,46); el chemsex, mediado por prácticas sexuales desafiantes (β=0,67), determinó una mayor exposición sexual. Conclusión: se deben tener en cuenta las conductas sexuales de adolescentes y las configuraciones de una relación amorosa/sexual en la planificación de la asistencia de enfermería para reducir la exposición sexual al virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Ramon Brito Teixeira
- Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Brasil; Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Álvaro Francisco Lopes de Sousa
- Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil; Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Centro Universitário UNINOVAFAPI, Brasil
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Teixeira JRB, Lima SVMA, Sousa ARD, Queiroz AAFLN, Barreto NMPV, Mendes IAC, Fronteira I, Sousa ÁFLD. Fatores determinantes da exposição sexual ao HIV em adolescentes luso-brasileiros: uma análise de caminhos*. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2022; 30:e3715. [DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.6222.3715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Objetivo: analisar os efeitos diretos e indiretos de fatores determinantes da exposição sexual ao vírus da imunodeficiência humana entre adolescentes homens que fazem sexo com homens e as implicações para o cuidado em enfermagem. Método: estudo transversal, realizado com 578 adolescentes de 18 a 19 anos luso-brasileiros. Avaliaram-se inter-relações de situação conjugal, uso de aplicativos de relacionamento, prática de chemsex, desinformação, credibilidade do parceiro, práticas sexuais desafiadoras e medidas protetivas pouco eficazes sobre a exposição sexual ao vírus da imunodeficiência humana, com a técnica de Análise de Caminhos. Resultados: apresentou efeito direto significante para exposição sexual ao vírus da imunodeficiência humana: situação conjugal (β=-0,16), uso de aplicativos (β=-0,30), práticas sexuais desafiadoras (β=0,48) e medidas protetivas pouco eficazes (β=0,35). Nos caminhos indiretos: credibilidade do parceiro influenciou medidas protetivas pouco eficazes (β=0,77); ter relacionamento fixo/poliamoroso influenciou o uso de aplicativos de relacionamento (β=-0,46); chemsex, mediado por práticas sexuais desafiadoras (β=0,67), determinou maior exposição sexual. Conclusão: comportamentos sexuais dos adolescentes e configurações do relacionamento amoroso/sexual precisam ser considerados no planejamento da assistência em enfermagem para diminuir a exposição sexual ao vírus da imunodeficiência humana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Ramon Brito Teixeira
- Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Brasil; Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Álvaro Francisco Lopes de Sousa
- Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil; Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Centro Universitário UNINOVAFAPI, Brasil
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Teixeira JRB, Lima SVMA, de Sousa AR, Queiroz AAFLN, Barreto NMPV, Mendes IAC, Fronteira I, de Sousa ÁFL. Determinants of sexual exposure to HIV in Portuguese and Brazilian adolescents: a path analysis. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2022. [PMID: 36197395 PMCID: PMC9647887 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.6222.3714] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE to analyze the direct and indirect effects of determinants of sexual exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus among male adolescents who have sex with men and the implications for nursing care. METHOD cross-sectional study carried out with 578 Portuguese and Brazilian adolescents aged 18 and 19. Interrelationships of conjugal status, use of dating apps, practice of chemsex, unawareness, partner credibility, challenging sexual practices and ineffective forms of protection against sexual exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus were evaluated using the Path Analysis technique. RESULTS significant direct effect on sexual exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus: conjugal status (β=-0.16), use of apps (β=-0.30), challenging sexual practices (β=0.48) and ineffective forms of protection (β=0.35). Indirect paths: partner credibility influenced ineffective forms of protection (β=0.77); having a steady/polyamorous relationship influenced the use of dating apps (β=-0.46); chemsex, mediated by challenging sexual practices (β=0.67), determined greater sexual exposure. CONCLUSION adolescent sexual behaviors and forms of amorous/sexual relationship must be considered in nursing care planning to reduce sexual exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus. UNLABELLED (1) Adolescents present high prevalence (81.0%) of sexual exposure to HIV. (2) Specificities of sexual practices are determinant factors of sexual exposure. (3) The higher the credibility given to a partner, the higher the sexual exposure to HIV. (4) Challenging sexual practices (such as fisting) determine sexual exposure. (5) Nursing care must focus on lowering exposure to HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Ramon Brito Teixeira
- Universidade Estadual de Feira de Santana, Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Feira de Santana, BA, Brasil
- Bolsista do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Isabel Amélia Costa Mendes
- Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem de Ribeirão Preto, Centro Colaborador da OPAS/OMS para o Desenvolvimento da Pesquisa em Enfermagem, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
| | - Inês Fronteira
- Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Lisboa, LX, Portugal
| | - Álvaro Francisco Lopes de Sousa
- Bolsista do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brasil
- Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Lisboa, LX, Portugal
- Centro Universitário UNINOVAFAPI, Teresina, PI, Brasil
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Alt M, Rotert P, Conover K, Dashwood S, Schramm AT. Qualitative investigation of factors impacting pre-exposure prophylaxis initiation and adherence in sexual minority men. Health Expect 2021; 25:313-321. [PMID: 34904322 PMCID: PMC8849378 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Men who have sex with men continue to account for the majority of new HIV infections in the United States. Many of those with new infections are unaware that they have HIV. Preventative measures continue to be essential in reducing new infections, with pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) being widely recommended. Objectives The overall aim of this qualitative study is to explore the impact of stigma, patient–provider dynamics and patient perception of PrEP on men's engagement with PrEP in a primary care setting. Methods The Consensual Qualitative Research Methodology (Hill, 2012) was used to explore the experiences of 14 men receiving care for PrEP at a Family Medicine clinic in the Midwest. Semistructured interviews were conducted to allow for depth of understanding of individuals' experience. Results Four major domains were identified: motivation to pursue PrEP, barriers and adherence to care, beliefs about how PrEP is perceived by others and experiences discussing sexual health and PrEP with providers. Conclusion It is important to better understand factors contributing to the pursuit of and adherence to HIV prevention measures and HIV care. Further, health systems and providers are encouraged to consider opportunities in terms of how their practice can destigmatize PrEP use and offer a welcoming environment for those pursuing HIV prevention. Patient or Public Contribution Patients were involved in the study through their participation in semistructured interviews, which provided the data analysed for this study. There was no additional participation beyond the one‐time interview or follow‐up poststudy. Their interviews helped contribute to our better understanding of the needs and experiences of those receiving PrEP‐related care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Alt
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Westwood, Kansas, USA
| | - Paul Rotert
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Westwood, Kansas, USA
| | - Kate Conover
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Westwood, Kansas, USA
| | - Sarah Dashwood
- Department of Family Medicine & Community Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Westwood, Kansas, USA
| | - Andrew T Schramm
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma & Acute Care Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Wanjala SW, Too EK, Luchters S, Abubakar A. Psychometric Properties of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale: A Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:13074. [PMID: 34948690 PMCID: PMC8701211 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Addressing HIV-related stigma requires the use of psychometrically sound measures. However, despite the Berger HIV stigma scale (HSS) being among the most widely used measures for assessing HIV-related stigma, no study has systematically summarised its psychometric properties. This review investigated the psychometric properties of the HSS. A systematic review of articles published between 2001 and August 2021 was undertaken (CRD42020220305) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Additionally, we searched the grey literature and screened the reference lists of the included studies. Of the total 1241 studies that were screened, 166 were included in the review, of which 24 were development and/or validation studies. The rest were observational or experimental studies. All the studies except two reported some aspect of the scale's reliability. The reported internal consistency ranged from acceptable to excellent (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.70) in 93.2% of the studies. Only eight studies reported test-retest reliability, and the reported reliability was adequate, except for one study. Only 36 studies assessed and established the HSS's validity. The HSS appears to be a reliable and valid measure of HIV-related stigma. However, the validity evidence came from only 36 studies, most of which were conducted in North America and Europe. Consequently, more validation work is necessary for more precise insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley W. Wanjala
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Campus UZ-Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Social Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi P.O. Box 195-80108, Kenya
| | - Ezra K. Too
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Campus UZ-Ghent, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi P.O. Box 30270-00100, Kenya; (E.K.T.); (A.A.)
- Department of Public Health, Pwani University, Kilifi P.O. Box 195-80108, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK
- Neuroassessment Group, KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi P.O. Box 230-80108, Kenya
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Shuper PA. The Role of Alcohol-Related Behavioral Research in the Design of HIV Secondary Prevention Interventions in the Era of Antiretroviral Therapy: Targeted Research Priorities Moving Forward. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:365-380. [PMID: 33987783 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03302-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
HIV secondary prevention focuses on averting onward HIV transmission, which can be realized when people living with HIV enact requisite HIV care continuum-related behaviors to achieve viral suppression, and engage in condom-protected sex when virally unsuppressed. Alcohol has been detrimentally linked to all aspects of HIV secondary prevention, and although a growing number of behavioral interventions account for and address alcohol use within this realm, further efforts are needed to fully realize the potential of such initiatives. The present article proposes a series of targeted priorities to inform the future design, implementation, and evaluation of alcohol-related behavioral intervention research within the scope of HIV secondary prevention. These priorities and corresponding approaches account for the challenges of resource-constrained clinic environments; capitalize on technology; and address key comorbidities. This framework provides the foundation for a range of alcohol-related behavioral interventions that could potentially enhance global HIV secondary prevention efforts in the years ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Shuper
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), 33 Russell Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2S1, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Institute for Collaboration On Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Abstract
The negative effects of stigma on men living with HIV within gay communities are well-documented. However, few studies have examined the experience of intimacy for men living with HIV as a consequence of the widespread availability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). This study explores the effect of PrEP adoption on the lives of men living with HIV in one of the first cities that made PrEP widely available, and where adoption had already been in place in treatment trials prior to FDA approval in 2012. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six gay men living with HIV under 40 years old in San Francisco, California. Transcriptions were coded using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four key themes relevant to experiential changes within the gay community post-PrEP rollout were identified: (i) the desire for intimate connection; (ii) remembered experiences of stigma; (iii) men who do not take PrEP are suspect; (iv) and an awareness of the changing meaning of HIV. The findings suggest that, post-PrEP rollout, men living with HIV are experiencing dating, sex and community in ways that reflect a general reduction in the experience of stigma surrounding their HIV status. This suggests an important social impact of PrEP in reducing HIV-related stigma beyond the primary prophylactic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin D Brandrett
- Department of Psychiatry, Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erin Margolis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, PGSP-Stanford Psy.D. Consortium, Palo Alto, CA, USA
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Goldenberg T, Gamarel KE, Reisner SL, Jadwin-Cakmak L, Harper GW. Gender Affirmation as a Source of Resilience for Addressing Stigmatizing Healthcare Experiences of Transgender Youth of Color. Ann Behav Med 2021; 55:1168-1183. [PMID: 33761531 PMCID: PMC8601040 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transgender and other gender diverse (TGD) youth of color experience stigma within healthcare. Gender affirmation can be a resilience resource; however, little is known about gender affirmation within healthcare. PURPOSE This study explores TGD youth of color's experiences of stigma and gender affirmation across the entire healthcare experience and their role on motivation to seek care. METHODS In 2015, cross-sectional surveys and individual in-depth interviews were conducted among 187 TGD youth ages 16-24 living in 14 U.S. cities. Analyses followed a mixed-methods design whereby 33 participants were purposively selected for a qualitative phenomenological analysis based on quantitatively reported gender affirmation needs. Subsequent quantitative analyses examined how healthcare use differed by access to gender affirmation. RESULTS Participants qualitatively described experiencing stigma across multiple healthcare settings (e.g., primary care, emergency care, medical gender affirmation), including before (finding providers, scheduling), during (waiting rooms, provider interactions), and after (pharmacy) healthcare visits. Participants who quantitatively reported access to gender-affirming healthcare still described negative healthcare experiences, either because they accessed multiple healthcare services or because of prior negative experiences. Stigma and gender affirmation (both inside and outside of healthcare) influenced motivation to seek care, with variation depending on the type of care. Quantitative analyses confirmed these findings; access to gender affirmation differed for participants who delayed primary care vs. those who did not, but did not vary based on participants' use of medical gender affirmation. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the importance of promoting gender-affirming healthcare environments to increase access to care for TGD youth of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Goldenberg
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kristi E Gamarel
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura Jadwin-Cakmak
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary W Harper
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Zimmermann HML, van Bilsen WPH, Boyd A, Matser A, van Harreveld F, Davidovich U. The Burden of Living With HIV is Mostly Overestimated by HIV-Negative and Never-Tested Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:3804-3813. [PMID: 33945046 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03281-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
To assess whether HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) have realistic views of the current implications of living with HIV, we compared data of 950 tested HIV-negative and 122 never-tested MSM on anticipated consequences of an HIV-infection to the actual experiences of 438 MSM living with HIV. Data were collected with a self-reported, web-based survey conducted between May-June 2019 in the Netherlands. Results indicated that, compared to HIV-positive MSM, HIV-negative MSM significantly overestimated 95% (37/39) of items assessing HIV-related burden. Never-tested participants overestimated 85% (33/39) of items. Overestimation in never-tested MSM was modified with increasing age and having HIV-positive friends/relatives. The high level of overestimation suggests the ongoing need to correct for misperceptions, as this could help reduce stigma towards those living with HIV and diminish fear of an HIV-diagnosis. The latter might be important to improve testing uptake in older never-tested MSM with outdated views on HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne M L Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Research, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ward P H van Bilsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Research, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Research, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amy Matser
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Research, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frenk van Harreveld
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Research, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Sallabank G, Chavanduka TMD, Walsh AR, Sullivan P, Wolfe J, Filipowicz R, Bonar EE, Horvath KJ, Hailu B, Bauermeister J, Stephenson R. Mapping LGBTQ+ Youth Resource Density Across Four High HIV Prevalence Corridors in the US. Sex Res Social Policy 2021; 20:300-314. [PMID: 34703505 PMCID: PMC8532447 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-021-00660-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies using geospatial data to understand LGBTQ+-friendly sexual health and wellness resource availability have often focused on services catered to adults. While HIV rates have increased in adolescents in recent years, few studies have explored disparities in resource access for adolescent gay and bisexual men (AGBMSM). METHODS We used geospatial data of resources (collected and verified 2017-2018) from the iReach app to understand disparities in resource access for AGBMSM within and between 4 high HIV prevalence corridors in the US. RESULTS AGBMSM in non-metro areas had access to fewer resources and some rural counties had no LGBTQ+ -friendly resources. Corridors comprising states with legacies of punitive laws targeting sexual and gender minorities demonstrate stark geographic disparities across the US. CONCLUSIONS Policy-makers must understand the granularity of disparities within regions. Online resources may be able to surmount LGBTQ+ resource deserts. However, physical access to LGBTQ+ -friendly services must be improved as a fundamental strategy for reducing HIV among AGBMSM. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13178-021-00660-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Sallabank
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Tanaka M. D. Chavanduka
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Alison R. Walsh
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - James Wolfe
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | | | - Erin E. Bonar
- Dept of Psychiatry and Addiction Center, Injury Prevention Center, Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Keith J. Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA USA
| | - Benyam Hailu
- Division of Clinical & Health Services Research, National Institute On Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | | | - Rob Stephenson
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
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Blair CS, Holloway IW, Fletcher JB, Reback CJ. Network Characteristics Associated with HIV Testing Conversations Among Transgender Women in Los Angeles County, California. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:2336-47. [PMID: 33609204 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03196-x] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study examined associations between transgender women's social network characteristics, perceived network member HIV risk/protective behaviors and HIV testing conversations between transgender women and their network members. From July 2015 to September 2016, 264 transgender women who nominated 2529 social network members completed surveys on sociodemographic characteristics, HIV risk/protective behaviors, and egocentric social networks. Mixed-effects logistic regression evaluated discussion of HIV testing with network member characteristics and perceived HIV risk/protective behaviors. HIV testing conversations were positively associated with being named as a trans "mother" (aOR 2.05; 95% CI 1.03-4.06) relationships of longer duration, and the following network member characteristics: perception as a confidant (3.09; 1.89-5.05), discussion of condom use (29.65; 16.75-52.49), knowledge of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (4.14; 2.11-8.15), and receipt of HIV testing (22.13; 11.47-42.69). HIV testing conversations were negatively associated with relationships where stimulants were used (aOR 0.32; 95% CI 0.12-0.84). These results indicate the importance of leveraging close relationship networks to increase HIV testing and the potential role for network-based HIV prevention strategies among transgender women.
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Zimmermann HML, van Bilsen WPH, Boyd A, Prins M, van Harreveld F, Davidovich U. Prevention challenges with current perceptions of HIV burden among HIV-negative and never-tested men who have sex with men in the Netherlands: a mixed-methods study. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25715. [PMID: 34449130 PMCID: PMC8395388 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As biomedical advances improved HIV treatment, the perceptions of severity and anticipated consequences of HIV could have changed accordingly. This study investigates the current perceptions of severity and anticipated consequences of HIV infection and its association with sexual risk behaviour among HIV-negative and never-tested men who have sex with men (MSM) living in the Netherlands. METHODS In-depth interviews with recently diagnosed HIV-positive MSM were used to develop a questionnaire measuring the perceived severity and anticipated consequences of HIV infection. The questionnaire was distributed online between April and July 2019. A structural equation model was constructed to explore the anticipated consequences contributing to the perceived HIV severity and to assess the association between the perceived severity and sexual risk behaviour. RESULTS In total, 1,072 HIV-negative and never-tested MSM completed the questionnaire, of whom 28% reported recent sexual risk behaviour. Almost one-quarter of participants (23%) had a low perceived HIV severity, which was associated with more prevalent sexual risk taking (β = -0.07, 95% CI = -0.12/-0.01). In this model, the perceived severity of HIV was more strongly associated with anticipated psychological consequences of HIV (β = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.24 to 0.44) and to a lesser extent with anticipated negative consequences of HIV on sex/relationships (β = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.19 to 0.38) and disclosure-related consequences (β = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.07 to 0.26). Health-related consequences of HIV were not significantly associated with the severity perceptions (β = 0.06, 95% CI = -0.03 to 0.14). CONCLUSIONS Anticipated negative social and psychological consequences of HIV mostly contribute to high HIV-severity perceptions in MSM. A smaller subgroup of MSM does not perceive HIV as a serious disease, which is associated with increased sexual risk taking. Efforts to normalize living with HIV are essential but might present a challenge for HIV prevention as it could, for a minority of MSM, decrease the motivation to prevent HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne ML Zimmermann
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Ward PH van Bilsen
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Stichting HIV MonitoringAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Infectious DiseasesAmsterdam Infection & Immunity Institute (AIII), Amsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Frenk van Harreveld
- Department of Social PsychologyUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM)BilthovenThe Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious DiseasesPublic Health Service of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Social PsychologyUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Ibitoye M, Lappen H, Freeman R, Jordan AE, Aronson ID. Technology-Based Interventions to Increase Point-of-Care HIV Testing and Linkage to Care Among Youth in the US: A Systematic Review. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:1829-38. [PMID: 33231846 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03112-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
HIV testing rates remain low among youth ages 13–24 in the US, with only 55% of HIV-positive youth aware of their serostatus. We conducted a systematic review to assess the utility of technology-based interventions to increase point-of-care youth HIV testing and linkage to care. We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL for randomized controlled trials of technology-based interventions aimed at increasing point-of-care youth HIV testing, published between 2008 and 2020. All identified citations were independently screened for inclusion by two authors, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled Trials was used to assess the quality of included studies. Three studies met all inclusion criteria. Two interventions were effective in increasing HIV testing, while one was effective at linkage to care. Technology-based interventions have the potential to increase youth HIV testing in clinical settings and facilitate linkage to care, possibly reducing undiagnosed HIV among adolescents and emerging adults.
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Mulawa MI, Rosengren AL, Amico KR, Hightow-Weidman LB, Muessig KE. mHealth to reduce HIV-related stigma among youth in the United States: a scoping review. Mhealth 2021; 7:35. [PMID: 33898604 PMCID: PMC8063007 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-20-68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple intersecting stigmas and discrimination related to sex, gender, HIV, and race/ethnicity may challenge HIV prevention and treatment service utilization, particularly among youth. This scoping review describes recent and ongoing innovative mobile health (mHealth) interventions among youth in the United States that aim to reduce stigma as an outcome or as part of the intervention model. To identify examples of stigma-mitigation via mHealth, we searched peer-reviewed published literature using keyword strategies related to mHealth, HIV, stigma, and youth (ages 10 to 29). We identified eleven articles that met our inclusion criteria, including three describing data from two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), five describing pilot studies, one describing the process evaluation of an ongoing intervention, one describing formative work for intervention development, and one published study protocol for an ongoing intervention. We review these articles, grouped by HIV prevention and care continuum stages, and describe the mHealth approach used, including telehealth, simulation video games, motion comics, smartphone applications (apps), social media forums, online video campaigns, video vignettes, and a computerized behavioral learning module. Four studies focused on preventing primary acquisition through individual-level behavior change (e.g., reducing condomless anal intercourse), three focused on increasing HIV testing, three focused on linking to prevention services [e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)] and one focused on promoting adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Our review did not identify any published studies using mHealth with a primary aim to reduce stigma as a way to improve care engagement and increase viral suppression among youth in the United States. Additional RCTs and implementation studies examining the effectiveness of mHealth stigma-reduction interventions on HIV-related outcomes are needed to end the HIV epidemic among youth. mHealth offers unique advantages to address the complex intersecting stigma barriers along the HIV continuum to improve HIV-related outcomes for youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta I. Mulawa
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - A. Lina Rosengren
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - K. Rivet Amico
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lisa B. Hightow-Weidman
- Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn E. Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Khan MNM, Sarwar G, Irfan SD, Gourab G, Rana AKMM, Khan SI. Understanding the Barriers of HIV Testing Services for Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study. Int Q Community Health Educ 2021; 42:272684X21995672. [PMID: 33657941 DOI: 10.1177/0272684x21995672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Coverage of HIV testing services (HTS) is generally low among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (hijra) in Bangladesh, thus impeding the national goal of attaining the 90-90-90 target. In this context, this article delineates HTS uptake barriers among these populations. This qualitative study entailed 30 in-depth interviews, six focus groups and seven key-informant interviews with purposively selected MSM and hijra, alongside service providers. Participants cited individual and interpersonal barriers such as low risk perception and misconceptions about HIV testing, programmatic barriers such as knowledge gaps among peer service providers, as well as community and structural barriers such as the criminalization and stigmatization of male-to-male sex. Considering these contexts, it is essential for stakeholders to improve the HTS modality using multipronged approaches to address the multifaceted barriers of HTS uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Golam Sarwar
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Samira Dishti Irfan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Gorkey Gourab
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A K M Masud Rana
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sharful Islam Khan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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van Griensven F, de Lind van Wijngaarden JW, Eustaquio PC, Wignall S, Azwa I, Veronese V, Ferradini L, Phanuphak N, Mills S. The continuing HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men and transgender women in the ASEAN region: implications for HIV policy and service programming. Sex Health 2021; 18:21-30. [PMID: 33632379 DOI: 10.1071/sh20134] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western urban areas have seen substantive decreases in new diagnoses of HIV infection. This paper explores whether such declines are present among MSM and transgender women (TGW) in Southeast Asia and discusses implications for HIV policies and programming. A scoping review was conducted of scientific publications and selected documents regarding the spread of HIV infection among MSM and TGW in major urban centres of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. Continued high HIV prevalence and incidence among MSM are found in integrated behavioural and biological surveillance (IBBS) and research studies. HIV prevalence among MSM under IBBS decreased only in Bangkok from 28.6% in 2014 to 10.3% in 2018, whereas it was increasing in Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Vientiane, and Phnom Penh. HIV/AIDS case reports regarding new HIV infection diagnoses among MSM have started to decrease in Singapore since 2011 and have been plateauing in Metropolitan Manila since 2017. Where data were available, it was found that HIV prevalence among TGW was high and if IBBS was conducted, it was increasing. HIV prevalence among TGW under IBBS in Jakarta had risen to 34.0% (2015) and 14.0% (2019) in Phnom Penh. These findings suggest that most ASEAN member states have so far failed to effectively implement and scale-up scientifically proven biomedical HIV prevention measures and counter stigma and discrimination that impedes access to appropriate HIV prevention and treatment services for MSM and TGW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frits van Griensven
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, 319 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; and Center of Excellence in Transgender Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama IV Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, Mission Hall, Box 1224, 550 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; and Corresponding author.
| | | | | | - Stephen Wignall
- FHI 360 Cambodia, Phnom Penh Center, Building F, Samdach Sothearos Boulevard (3), Phnom Penh HW3M+9H, Cambodia
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Vanessa Veronese
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia
| | - Laurent Ferradini
- FHI 360 Asia-Pacific Regional Office, 9 Witthayu Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Nittaya Phanuphak
- Institute of HIV Research and Innovation, 319 Phayathai Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; and Center of Excellence in Transgender Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama IV Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Stephen Mills
- FHI 360 Asia-Pacific Regional Office, 9 Witthayu Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Hojilla JC, Santiago-Rodriguez EI, Sterling S, Williams EC, Leyden W, Hare CB, Silverberg MJ, Satre DD. HIV Stigma and Its Associations with Longitudinal Health Outcomes Among Persons Living with HIV with a History of Unhealthy Alcohol Use. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:215-224. [PMID: 32632497 PMCID: PMC7785626 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02963-6] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the demographic and clinical correlates of HIV stigma and evaluated how HIV stigma was associated with physical and mental health outcomes one year later in a primary-care based cohort of persons living with HIV (PLHIV; N = 584). HIV stigma was measured using a modified Berger HIV stigma scale, which includes four subscales: (1) personalized stigma; (2) disclosure concerns; (3) negative self-image; and (4) concerns around public attitudes towards PLHIV. Physical and mental health were assessed using the 12-item short form survey (SF-12). Compared to whites, African Americans were more likely to have higher personalized stigma scores (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 1.54 [95% confidence interval 1.10-2.15]), disclosure concerns (aPR 1.40 [1.03-1.92]), and concerns with public attitudes about PLHIV (aPR 1.61 [1.11-2.34]). Hispanic/Latinx participants were more likely to have concerns around public attitudes towards PLHIV (aPR 1.50 [1.11-2.02]) than whites. Compared to men, women were more likely to have higher negative self-image scores (aPR 1.50 [1.08-2.08]). Higher stigma scores were associated with poorer subsequent self-reported physical and mental health functional status. Our findings highlight the substantial need for addressing HIV stigma, particularly among minority subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Carlo Hojilla
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA.
| | - Edda I Santiago-Rodriguez
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Division of Prevention Science, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stacy Sterling
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Emily C Williams
- Health Services Research and Development, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Wendy Leyden
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - C Bradley Hare
- Department of Adult and Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Derek D Satre
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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42
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Muessig KE, Golinkoff JM, Hightow-Weidman LB, Rochelle AE, Mulawa MI, Hirshfield S, Rosengren AL, Aryal S, Buckner N, Wilson MS, Watson DL, Houang S, Bauermeister JA. Increasing HIV Testing and Viral Suppression via Stigma Reduction in a Social Networking Mobile Health Intervention Among Black and Latinx Young Men and Transgender Women Who Have Sex With Men (HealthMpowerment): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e24043. [PMID: 33325838 PMCID: PMC7773515 DOI: 10.2196/24043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma and discrimination related to sexuality, race, ethnicity, and HIV status negatively impact HIV testing, engagement in care, and consistent viral suppression (VS) among young Black and Latinx men who have sex with men and transgender women who have sex with men (YBLMT). Few interventions address the effects of intersectional stigma among youth living with HIV and those at risk for HIV within the same virtual space. OBJECTIVE Building on the success of the HealthMpowerment (HMP) mobile health (mHealth) intervention (HMP 1.0) and with the input of a youth advisory board, HMP 2.0 is an app-based intervention that promotes user-generated content and social support to reduce intersectional stigma and improve HIV-related outcomes among YBLMT. The primary objective of this study is to test whether participants randomized to HMP 2.0 report improvement in HIV prevention and care continuum outcomes compared with an information-only control arm. We will also explore whether participant engagement, as measured by paradata (data collected as users interact with an mHealth intervention, eg, time spent using the intervention), mediates stigma- and HIV care-related outcomes. Finally, we will assess whether changes in intersectional stigma and improvements in HIV care continuum outcomes vary across different types of social networks formed within the intervention study arms. METHODS We will enroll 1050 YBLMT aged 15 to 29 years affected by HIV across the United States. Using an HIV-status stratified, randomized trial design, participants will be randomly assigned to 1 of the 3 app-based conditions (information-only app-based control arm, a researcher-created network arm of HMP 2.0, or a peer-referred network arm of HMP 2.0). Behavioral assessments will occur at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. For participants living with HIV, self-collected biomarkers (viral load) are scheduled for baseline, 6, and 12 months. For HIV-negative participants, up to 3 HIV self-testing kits will be available during the study period. RESULTS Research activities began in September 2018 and are ongoing. The University of Pennsylvania is the central institutional review board for this study (protocol #829805) with institutional reliance agreements with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Study recruitment began on July 20, 2020. A total of 205 participants have been enrolled as of November 20, 2020. CONCLUSIONS Among a large sample of US-based YBLMT, this study will assess whether HMP 2.0, an app-based intervention designed to ameliorate stigma and its negative sequelae, can increase routine HIV testing among HIV-negative participants and consistent VS among participants living with HIV. If efficacious and brought to scale, this intervention has the potential to significantly impact the disproportionate burden of HIV among YBLMT in the United States. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03678181; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT03678181. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/24043.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Elizabeth Muessig
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Jesse M Golinkoff
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Lisa B Hightow-Weidman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Aimee E Rochelle
- Behavior and Technology Lab, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Marta I Mulawa
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - A Lina Rosengren
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Subhash Aryal
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | | | - M Skye Wilson
- Behavior and Technology Lab, Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Dovie L Watson
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Steven Houang
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - José Arturo Bauermeister
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Sircar NR, Maleche AA. Assessing a Human Rights-Based Approach to HIV Testing and Partner Notification in Kenya: A Qualitative Study to Examine How Kenya's Policies and Practices Implement a Rights-Based Approach to Health. Health Hum Rights 2020; 22:167-176. [PMID: 33390705 PMCID: PMC7762902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Kenya encourages HIV testing and notification services, especially for key and affected populations (KAP), in order to identify persons living with HIV and link them to treatment. Kenya and international supporters of its HIV program have sought to scale up these services through increased capacity and training. However, little is known about how the HIV strategy is implemented and sustained, particularly regarding human rights. Kenya aspires to support human rights in adherence to a human rights-based approach (HRBA) to HIV. This exploratory qualitative study assesses Kenya's progress in implementing an HRBA to HIV. KAP participants conveyed mixed perspectives on their HIV care services, conveying distrust in Kenya's public health care system while also recognizing improvement in some patient-provider interactions. Providers see the need to better engage KAP through community-based organizations and undergo improved, consistent training to sustain practices and policies that promote their rights realization. We believe that our study contributes to both HIV and human rights research by capturing successes and challenges in Kenya's implementation of an HRBA to HIV. These findings should inform future collaboration between Kenyan health authorities and KAP, and shape HIV policies and practices to improve health care utilization and human rights realization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neiloy R. Sircar
- Postdoctoral scholar at the University of California San Francisco, USA
| | - Allan A. Maleche
- Executive Director of the Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network, Nairobi, Kenya
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Boyd D, Lea C 3rd, Quinn C. Learning About HIV: Predicting the Sources of Knowledge That Matter Regarding HIV Testing Among a National Sample of Black and Latinx Adolescents and Young Adults in the United States. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2020; 31:417-27. [PMID: 31985508 DOI: 10.1097/JNC.0000000000000159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the knowledge and beliefs of a nationally representative sample of youth and young adults about HIV based on the microsystems and mesosystems of the ecodevelopmental theory. We used a stratified sample (n = 538) of Black and Latinx adolescents and young adults in the United States, 15-24 years of age, at risk of becoming infected with HIV to assess the source of their HIV knowledge and its association with HIV testing to identify modifiable factors that can support the development of interventions addressing HIV-related risks. Using a logistic regression analysis, findings suggest that identifying protective health behaviors, such as providing adolescents and young adults with sexual health information that is accurate, trustworthy, and safe, could be one way to reduce their risk of HIV infection. Expanding knowledge about the important role and influence of sources of HIV-related knowledge on testing behaviors can inform HIV prevention and intervention programs specific to this population.
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Ramadhani HO, Crowell TA, Nowak RG, Ndembi N, Kayode BO, Kokogho A, Ononaku U, Shoyemi E, Ekeh C, Adebajo S, Baral SD, Charurat ME. Association of age with healthcare needs and engagement among Nigerian men who have sex with men and transgender women: cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses from an observational cohort. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23 Suppl 6:e25599. [PMID: 33000907 PMCID: PMC7527771 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) face stigmas that hinder access to healthcare. The aim of the study was to understand age-related determinants of healthcare needs and engagement among MSM and TGW. METHODS The TRUST/RV368 cohort provides integrated prevention and treatment services for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) tailored to the needs of sexual and gender minorities. MSM and TGW aged ≥16 years in Abuja and ≥18 years Lagos, Nigeria, completed standardized behavioural questionnaires and were tested for HIV, Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) every three months for up to 18 months. Logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for associations of age and other factors with outcomes of interest upon enrolment, including HIV care continuum steps - HIV testing, ART initiation and viral suppression <1000 copies/mL. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for associations with incident infections. RESULTS Between March 2013 and February 2019, 2123 participants were enrolled with median age 23 (interquartile range 21 to 27) years. Of 1745 tested, 865 (49.6%) were living with HIV. HIV incidence was 11.6/100 person-years [PY], including 23.1/100PY (95% CI 15.5 to 33.1) among participants aged 16 to 19 years and 23.8/100 PY (95% CI 13.6 to 39.1) among TGW. Compared to participants aged ≥25 years, those aged 16 to 19 years had decreased odds of prior HIV testing (aOR 0.40 [95% CI 0.11 to 0.92]), disclosing same-sex sexual practices to healthcare workers (aOR 0.53 [95% CI 0.36 to 0.77]) and receiving HIV prevention information (aOR 0.60 [95% CI 0.41 to 0.87]). They had increased odds of avoiding healthcare (aOR 1.94 [95% CI 1.3 to 2.83]) and engaging in transactional sex (aOR 2.76 [95% CI 1.92 to 3.71]). Age 16 to 19 years was independently associated with increased incidence of HIV (aHR 4.09 [95% CI 2.33 to 7.49]), NG (aHR 3.91 [95% CI 1.90 to 8.11]) and CT (aHR 2.74 [95% CI 1.48 to 5.81]). CONCLUSIONS Young MSM and TGW demonstrated decreased healthcare engagement and higher incidence of HIV and other STIs as compared to older participants in this Nigerian cohort. Interventions to address unique obstacles to healthcare engagement by adolescents and young adults are needed to curb the spread of HIV and other STIs among MSM and TGW in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Habib O Ramadhani
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Trevor A Crowell
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Rebecca G Nowak
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | | | - Afoke Kokogho
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- HJF Medical Research International, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Charles Ekeh
- Population Council, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria
| | - Sylvia Adebajo
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation- A University of Maryland Baltimore Affiliate, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Stefan D Baral
- Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Manhattan E Charurat
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The negative effects of HIV stigma may extend beyond those who are HIV-positive, to people who are perceived to be at risk of HIV. This article examines HIV stigma by association among Australian gay and bisexual men (GBM). DESIGN Cross-sectional, online survey of 1280 Australian gay and bisexual men. This article focuses on HIV stigma from within a larger study that investigated stigma related to sexual identity. METHODS Bivariate and multivariable comparisons were made between men who experienced HIV stigma by association and those who did not. A serial mediation model was tested to investigate relationships between GBM community attachment, sexual identity stigma, HIV testing frequency, HIV stigma by association, psychological distress, and rejection of sex partners. RESULTS Results found that 5% of participants were HIV-positive, yet over 70% reported that they had been stigmatized by others for their perceived risk of acquiring HIV. Multivariable analysis indicated that HIV stigma by association was associated with more frequent HIV testing, greater GBM community attachment, experiencing stigma related to sexual identity and psychological distress. Our results suggest flow-on effects of HIV stigma by association, such as being more likely to reject other GBM on the basis of their HIV status or not testing for HIV. CONCLUSION Our results underscore the notion that HIV stigma can have broader, negative effects on HIV-affected populations. There is a need to address HIV stigma within GBM communities and society more broadly in order to encourage HIV testing and prevention among GBM.
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Chiaramonte D, Miller RL, Lee K, Santiago Rivera OJ, Acevedo-Polakovich ID, McGirr S, Porter JL, Ellen JM, Boyer CB. Gendered powerlessness in at-risk adolescent and young women: an empirical model. AIDS Care 2020; 32:1333-1342. [PMID: 32008352 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2020.1724252] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, youth aged 13-24 comprised approximately 21% of new HIV infections in 2017; 13% of these infections occurred among women, the majority of whom (86%) acquired HIV through heterosexual contact (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2019a. HIV and youth. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/group/age/youth/index.html, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2019b. HIV among women. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/group/gender/women/index.html). We fit and validated a developmentally appropriate empirical model of Connell's Theory of Gender and Power (Connell, R. W. 1987. Gender and power: Society, the person and sexual politics. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, Connell, R. W. 2013. Gender and power: Society, the person and sexual politics. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons) in a sample of young women and assessed whether gendered powerlessness reflected a multidimensional higher-order latent factor, as the theory implies. Anonymous computer-assisted interviews were administered to at-risk, sexually active young women (N = 1,101). Factor analyses and structural equation modeling were used to determine the dimensionality of gendered powerlessness. Associations with condom use were examined to validate the model. We fit a three-component model of gendered powerlessness, but not a higher-order latent factor. We observed that high scores on two dimensions of gendered powerlessness - cathexis and sexual division of power - were associated with lower likelihood of condom use. Our three-component model helps elucidate the role that components of gendered powerlessness play in young women's health behaviors and underscores the need for measures tailored to young women at high risk of contracting HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin Lin Miller
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - KyungSook Lee
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Sara McGirr
- Michigan Public Health Institute, Okemos, MI, USA
| | | | - Jonathan M Ellen
- All Children's Hospital Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Cherrie B Boyer
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Catania JA, Dolcini MM, Harper G, Fortenberry D, Singh RR, Jamil O, Young AW, Pollack L, Orellana ER. Oral HIV Self-Implemented Testing: Performance Fidelity Among African American MSM. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:395-403. [PMID: 31732830 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02711-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Oral-Self Implemented HIV Testing (Oral-SIT) offers a low-cost way to extend the reach of HIV testing systems. It is unclear, however, if high risk populations are able to perform the test with high fidelity. Using a simulation-based research design, we administered desensitized Oral-SIT kits to African American MSM (AAMSM; 17-24 years, N = 178). Participants were HIV negative or never tested, and had never self-administered an Oral-SIT kit. We assessed performance fidelity, and hypothesized antecedents. High levels of social stigma were associated with lower levels of training knowledge (Range = No Errors: 51.9%, 4 Errors: 0.6%) and performance fidelity (Range = No Errors: 39.9%, 3 Errors: 1.7%). Training knowledge and prior testing history were positively associated with performance fidelity. The present work extends research on HIV-related social stigma and suggests that social stigma inhibits knowledge acquisition and task performance. The Oral-SIT training materials were understood by individuals with a wide-range of educational backgrounds. Interventions are needed, however, to further improve Oral-SIT performance fidelity.
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Taylor TN, DeHovitz J, Hirshfield S. Intersectional Stigma and Multi-Level Barriers to HIV Testing Among Foreign-Born Black Men From the Caribbean. Front Public Health 2020; 7:373. [PMID: 31998675 PMCID: PMC6965168 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Testing is the entry point into the HIV care continuum that includes linkage to and retention in prevention services, and adherence to prevention strategies, including repeat HIV testing. Despite US policy approaches to expand HIV testing to diverse clinical care and community settings, disparities in HIV testing among Black populations persist. Foreign-born (FB) Black persons from the Caribbean have higher annual rates of HIV diagnosis and a higher percentage of late-stage HIV diagnosis, compared with US-born Black persons; and most HIV infections among FB Blacks are among men. In this article, we provide an overview of HIV testing barriers among FB Black men who engage in HIV risk-taking behaviors (e.g., condomless sex with male and/or female partners of unknown HIV serostatus). Barriers to HIV testing for both FB and US-born Black men, include HIV stigma (anticipated, perceived, internalized), low perceived HIV risk, medical or government mistrust, and perceived low access to testing resources. We examine beliefs about masculinity and gender roles that may perpetuate heteronormative stereotypes associated with perceptions of low HIV risk and barriers to HIV testing. We also discuss the impact of recent immigration policies on accessing HIV testing and treatment services and how intersectional stigmas and structural forms of oppression, such as racism, prejudice against select immigrant groups, and homophobia that may further amplify barriers to HIV testing among FB Black men. Finally, we review comprehensive prevention approaches, and suggest innovative approaches, that may improve the uptake of HIV testing among FB Black men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya N. Taylor
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, United States
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50
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Hawk ME, Chung A, Creasy SL, Egan JE. A Scoping Review of Patient Preferences for HIV Self-Testing Services in the United States: Implications for Harm Reduction. Patient Prefer Adherence 2020; 14:2365-2375. [PMID: 33293799 PMCID: PMC7719302 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s251677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite marked progress in the ability to test for, treat, and prevent HIV, the epidemic remains a significant public health concern, especially among key populations including prisoners; sex workers; transgender individuals; gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM); and Black and Latinx MSM. This scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of the current research describing patient preferences for HIVST in the United States to understand what key populations value about HIVST and why they are willing to use it. A targeted search for published literature on patient preferences for HIVST was conducted using Ovid Medline, PsychINFO, and an HIVST research database. RESULTS We reviewed 700 abstracts and 139 full texts. We found 19 articles published between January 2014 and April 2020 that included findings related to HIVST preferences. Overall, HIVST was preferred to more traditional testing. Six primary factors emerged as important HIVST values including: 1) convenience, 2) type of test; 3) cost, 4) stigma reduction, 5) risk reduction, and 6) self-control. Linkage to care was also identified as a key factor when considering HIVST as an option. Much of what makes HIVST attractive to individuals is their ability to self-determine how HIVST can be best integrated into their lives as a harm reduction tool for stigma and sexual risk mitigation. CONCLUSION While there is substantial evidence suggesting HIVST is feasible for use and there are aspects of HIVST that are beneficial and preferred over traditional testing approaches, there is a lack of rigorous implementation studies exploring how best to scale up HIVST in community settings. HIVST has the potential to be a powerful biobehavioral HIV prevention and harm reduction tool to empower individuals to engage with testing on their own terms while providing pathways to prevention and care support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Hawk
- Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Evaluation Institute, Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Correspondence: Mary E Hawk Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USATel +1-412-648-2342 Email
| | - Ashley Chung
- Jewish Healthcare Foundation, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Stephanie L Creasy
- Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Evaluation Institute, Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - James E Egan
- Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Center for LGBT Health Research, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Evaluation Institute, Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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