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Stoner MCD, Mathebula F, Sedze N, Seyama L, Mohuba R, Fabiano Z, Etima J, Young A, Scheckter R, van der Straten A, Piper J, Noguchi L, Montgomery ET, Balán IC. Depression Among Pregnant and Breastfeeding Persons Participating in Two Randomized Trials of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04321-2. [PMID: 38526641 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04321-2] [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] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Depression is associated with lower adherence to oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV, but data are not currently available on how depression may affect use of other HIV prevention methods including the dapivirine vaginal ring (DVR). We conducted a mixed methods study using data from the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN) 042/DELIVER (n = 558) and MTN-043/B-PROTECTED (n = 197) studies to describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms and explore how depressive symptoms may have influenced attitudes about use of the monthly DVR and once-daily oral PrEP tablet among pregnant and breastfeeding persons, respectively, in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Eleven participants had high Edinburgh Postnatal Depression scores ≥ 10 in MTN-042/DELIVER (2%) and four participants (2%) in MTN-043/B-PROTECTED. In interviews with 9 participants who had high scores (6 DVR, 3 oral PrEP), those with depressive symptoms described overlapping stressors which were magnified by job loss and economic instability during the COVID-19 pandemic, and by experiences of pregnancy/postpartum. These participants experienced a lack of support from partners or family members, and conflict with partners related to trust, and infidelity. While we did not find evidence of a change in product adherence, there was a strong sense of commitment and motivation to use the study products for protection from HIV for participants themselves and their baby. Although lack of social support is usually an obstacle to adherence, in this study, the participants' lives and relationships seemed to have reinforced the need for HIV prevention and motivated women to protect themselves and their babies from HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florence Mathebula
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Natasha Sedze
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Linly Seyama
- Johns Hopkins Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Rebone Mohuba
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Zayithwa Fabiano
- Johns Hopkins Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University - Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | | | - Jeanna Piper
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lisa Noguchi
- Division of Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health, Jhpiego/Johns Hopkins University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Iván C Balán
- Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Montgomery ET, Hawley I, Fairlie L, Bunge K, Mathebula F, Etima J, Mutero P, Senyama L, Mayo A, Stoner MCD, Piper J, Balan I, van der Straten A. Acceptability of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and Oral Truvada Among African Users in Late-Stage of Pregnancy. AIDS Behav 2024; 28:963-973. [PMID: 37932492 PMCID: PMC10896786 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04203-z] [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: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The Microbicide Trials Network 042 study (MTN-042/DELIVER) is a two-arm, randomized, open-label Phase 3b trial that is evaluating the safety, adherence, and acceptability of the monthly ring and daily oral PrEP among HIV-uninfected pregnant people in four African countries. This analysis focuses on acceptability data captured qualitatively from a subset (n = 48) of the 150 people in the first cohort of the trial who were enrolled in late-stage pregnancy at 36 to 38 weeks gestational age and followed until after delivery. Single IDIs were conducted by trained interviewers at each clinic site using a semi-structured guide. Data excerpts of key codes pertaining to acceptability, pregnancy, and maternal health were summarized, reviewed and interpreted by multinational analyst teams. Although the product use period was relatively short, the data suggested several acceptability findings that may directly translate to longer durations of product use in pregnancy. The first was the overarching maternal sentiment that being able to protect both oneself and their baby was highly valued. The second was the importance of counseling support from providers not only because participants used methods that might generate side effects, but because pregnancy itself is a period with its own set of side effects. The third was that, similar to non-pregnant participants in other trials, here study products were generally liked and described as easy to use. Concerns about ring and oral PrEP use could be addressed with provider counseling and support and should form an essential component rollout among pregnant people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth T Montgomery
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Imogen Hawley
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA
| | - Lee Fairlie
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Katie Bunge
- MMWRI, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Florence Mathebula
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University - Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Prisca Mutero
- Clinical Trials Research Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Linly Senyama
- Johns Hopkins Project, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Marie C D Stoner
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94104, USA
| | | | - Ivan Balan
- Department of Behavioral Science and Social Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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Butler V, Kutywayo A, Martin CE, Pleaner M, Mojapele MV, Ncube S, Fipaza Z, Mundeta B, Mullick S. Implementing Differentiated and Integrated HIV Prevention Services for Adolescent Girls and Young Women: Experiences From Oral PrEP Rollout in Primary Care Services in South Africa. J Adolesc Health 2023; 73:S58-S66. [PMID: 37953010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.09.003] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In South Africa, adolescent girls and young women (AGYW, aged 15-24 years) are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV). Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been available in South Africa since 2016; however, there is limited evidence on oral PrEP implementation and integration in real-world settings, particularly among AGYW. Project PrEP is an implementation science project that sought to inform the introduction and integration of oral PrEP as part of combination HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health services (SRH) in South Africa. The project focused on AGYW, as a priority population in need of HIV prevention. This paper presents strategies Project PrEP employed to increase oral PrEP and SRH service access and utilization. METHODS We present strategies employed to increase oral PrEP and SRH services uptake. Using routine monitoring data, facility assessments, stakeholder engagement, training and progress reports, and observations, we share implementation lessons learned and describe how strategies can be adapted by HIV prevention programs in different contexts. RESULTS Approximately 22, 000 people initiated on oral PrEP (December 2018-December 2021) across eight facilities and four mobile clinics. Two-thirds (67%) of initiated clients were AGYW. DISCUSSION Lessons are to be learned from the introduction of oral PrEP as implementers prepare for the introduction of new PrEP methods. Stakeholders must be continuously engaged to ensure buy-in, and social mobilization and demand creation should be contextual, focused, and innovative. Continuous staff training is needed to reinforce knowledge, and AGYW service delivery models must be local context relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vusile Butler
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Alison Kutywayo
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Melanie Pleaner
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Sydney Ncube
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Zukiswa Fipaza
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bongai Mundeta
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Saiqa Mullick
- Wits RHI, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Young AM, Mancuso N, Atujuna M, Tenza S, Chitukuta M, Kemigisha D, Ngure K, van der Straten A, Garcia M, Szydlo D, Soto-Torres L, Roberts ST. Adolescent Girls and Young Women's Experiences with Disclosing Oral PrEP or Dapivirine Vaginal Ring Use: a Multi-Country Qualitative Analysis. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3941-3951. [PMID: 37392268 PMCID: PMC10598125 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04109-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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Effective use of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been low among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Eastern and Southern Africa, partly due to stigma and opposition from key influencers. Understanding AGYW's experiences of disclosure of different PrEP modalities to key influencers may inform strategies to motivate uptake and adherence. We analyzed qualitative in-depth interviews and focus group discussions data from 119 participants in the MTN-034/REACH (Reversing the Epidemic in Africa with Choices in HIV Prevention) study of oral PrEP and the dapivirine vaginal ring (ring) to explore AGYW's disclosure experiences. We found that AGYW disclosure experiences varied across influencers and product type. The ring was disclosed less often to most influencers, except partners, because it was discreet. Oral PrEP was disclosed more often, because pills were more common and to avoid HIV stigma given that oral PrEP resembled HIV treatment. Ultimately, disclosure typically led most key influencers to support product use through reminders and encouragement. While disclosure yielded positive support from influencers, further community awareness of both PrEP products is essential to reduce potential opposition and perceived stigma.Clinical Trial Number: NCT03593655.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alinda M Young
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Noah Mancuso
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
| | | | - Siyanda Tenza
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Miria Chitukuta
- University of Zimbabwe Clinical Trials Research Centre (UZ-CTRC), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Doreen Kemigisha
- Makerere University - Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- ASTRA Consulting, Kensington, CA and CAPS, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Danny Szydlo
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lydia Soto-Torres
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Sarah T Roberts
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Suite 800, Berkeley, CA, 94704, USA
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Reddy K, Palanee-Phillips T, Heffron R. Awareness of Heightened Sexual and Behavioral Vulnerability as a Trigger for PrEP Resumption Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in East and Southern Africa. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2023; 20:333-344. [PMID: 38051383 PMCID: PMC10719120 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-023-00680-y] [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: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW East and Southern Africa are the epicenter of the HIV epidemic. High HIV incidence rates among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) remain stable over the last decade despite access to daily oral PrEP. Some settings have experienced high PrEP uptake among AGYW; however, discontinuation has been high. This review sought to understand drivers of PrEP discontinuation in this population in order to identify potential mechanisms to facilitate PrEP restart and optimize PrEP use. RECENT FINDINGS Drivers of PrEP discontinuation included low perceived HIV acquisition risk, PrEP-associated side effects, pill burden, family/sexual partner disapproval, lack of/intermittent sexual activity, PrEP use stigma, fear of intimate partner violence, misinformation about long-term PrEP use, and limited/inconsistent access to PrEP. The most frequently reported driver of PrEP discontinuation was low perceived HIV acquisition risk. This indicates that innovative interventions to help AGYW recognize their HIV risk and make informed decisions about PrEP use are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnaveni Reddy
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Thesla Palanee-Phillips
- Wits RHI, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Dayton RL, Fonner VA, Plourde KF, Sanyal A, Arney J, Orr T, Nhamo D, Schueller J, Limb AM, Torjesen K. A Scoping Review of Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Cisgender and Transgender Adolescent Girls and Young Women: What Works and Where Do We Go from Here? AIDS Behav 2023; 27:3223-3238. [PMID: 37119401 PMCID: PMC10148005 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04043-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) are disproportionately affected by HIV, and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV acquisition. The purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize results from interventions along the PrEP continuum for AGYW to inform research and programs. We searched electronic databases for studies published between January 2012-July 2021 and conducted secondary reference searching. Studies were included if they assessed interventions to increase PrEP interest, uptake, or continuation among AGYW. Results were synthesized narratively. Of 2168 citations identified, 50 studies were eligible for inclusion, and 20 contained AGYW-specific data. Among cisgender and transgender AGYW, studies overall demonstrated a positive impact on PrEP interest and uptake but generally attained suboptimal continuation rates. Results demonstrate feasibility of deploying PrEP across diverse settings-particularly when interventions are layered, tailored to AGYW, and include differentiated delivery-but also highlight knowledge gaps and the need for more holistic metrics of success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ameya Sanyal
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer Arney
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tracy Orr
- FHI 360, Global Health and Population, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Jane Schueller
- United States Agency for International Development, Bureau of Global Health, Office of Population and Reproductive Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Annaliese M Limb
- United States Agency for International Development, Bureau of Global Health, Office of HIV/AIDS, Washington, DC, USA
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Herrera C, Serwanga J, Else L, Limakatso L, Opoka D, Ssemata AS, Pillay AD, Namubiru P, Seiphetlo TB, Odoch G, Mugaba S, Seatlholo P, Alieu A, Penchala SD, Muhumuza R, Alinde B, Petkov S, O'Hagan K, Callebaut C, Seeley J, Weiss H, Khoo S, Chiodi F, Gray CM, Kaleebu P, Webb EL, Martinson N, Fox J. Dose finding study for on-demand HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis for insertive sex in sub-Saharan Africa: results from the CHAPS open label randomised controlled trial. EBioMedicine 2023; 93:104648. [PMID: 37327677 PMCID: PMC10275696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of on-demand HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for men in sub-Saharan Africa has not been evaluated, and the on-demand PrEP dosing requirement for insertive sex remains unknown. METHODS HIV-negative males 13-24 years, requesting voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC), were enrolled into an open-label randomised controlled trial (NCT03986970), and randomised 1:1:1:1:1:1:1:1:1 to control arm or one of eight arms receiving emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF) or emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide (F/TAF) over one or two days, and circumcised 5 or 21 h thereafter. The primary outcome was foreskin p24 concentrations following ex vivo HIV-1BaL challenge. Secondary outcomes included peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) p24 concentration, and drug concentrations in foreskin tissue, PBMCs, plasma and foreskin CD4+/CD4-cells. In the control arm, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) activity of non-formulated tenofovir-emtricitabine (TFV-FTC) or TAF-FTC was assessed with ex vivo dosing 1, 24, 48 or 72 h post-HIV-1 challenge. FINDINGS 144 participants were analysed. PrEP with F/TDF or F/TAF prevented ex vivo infection of foreskins and PBMCs both 5 and 21 h after PrEP dosing. There was no difference between F/TDF and F/TAF (p24day15 geometric mean ratio 1.06, 95% confidence interval: 0.65-1.74). Additional ex vivo dosing did not further increase inhibition. In the control arm, PEP ex vivo dosing was effective up to 48 post-exposure diminishing thereafter, with TAF-FTC showing prolonged protection compared to TFV-FTC. Participants receiving F/TAF had higher TFV-DP concentrations in foreskin tissue and PBMCs compared with F/TDF, irrespective of dose and sampling interval; but F/TAF did not confer preferential TFV-DP distribution into foreskin HIV target cells. FTC-TP concentrations with both drug regimens were equivalent and ∼1 log higher than TFV-DP in foreskin. INTERPRETATION A double dose of either F/TDF or F/TAF given once either 5 or 21 h before ex vivo HIV-challenge provided protection across foreskin tissue. Further clinical evaluation of pre-coital PrEP for insertive sex is warranted. FUNDING EDCTP2, Gilead Sciences, Vetenskapsrådet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Herrera
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, W2 1PG, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laura Else
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, William Henry Duncan Building, University of Liverpool, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Lebina Limakatso
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Africa Health Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Daniel Opoka
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew S Ssemata
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Azure-Dee Pillay
- Division of Immunology, University of Cape Town, South Africa based at Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit (RMPRU). Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, 30 Chris Hani Road, Diepkloof, Soweto, 1862, South Africa
| | - Patricia Namubiru
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Thabiso B Seiphetlo
- Division of Immunology, University of Cape Town, South Africa based at Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit (RMPRU). Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, 30 Chris Hani Road, Diepkloof, Soweto, 1862, South Africa
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Susan Mugaba
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Portia Seatlholo
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Africa Health Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Amara Alieu
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, William Henry Duncan Building, University of Liverpool, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Sujan Dilly Penchala
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, William Henry Duncan Building, University of Liverpool, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Richard Muhumuza
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Berenice Alinde
- Division of Immunology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stefan Petkov
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Kyle O'Hagan
- Division of Immunology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Janet Seeley
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK; Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Helen Weiss
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Saye Khoo
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, William Henry Duncan Building, University of Liverpool, 6 West Derby Street, Liverpool, L7 8TX, UK
| | - Francesca Chiodi
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, 171 65 Solna, Sweden
| | - Clive M Gray
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Stellenbosch University (Tygerberg Campus), Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, 51-59 Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Emily L Webb
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Neil Martinson
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Africa Health Research Unit, Durban, South Africa; Johns Hopkins University Center for TB Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julie Fox
- Infection and Immunity, Borough Wing, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, St. Thomas Street, SE1 9RS, London, UK.
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Nakalega R, Mukiza N, Menge R, Kizito S, Babirye JA, Kuteesa CN, Mawanda D, Mulumba E, Nabukeera J, Ggita J, Nakanjako L, Akello C, Mirembe BG, Lukyamuzi Z, Nakaye C, Kataike H, Maena J, Etima J, Nabunya HK, Biira F, Nagawa C, Heffron R, Celum C, Gandhi M, Mujugira A. Feasibility and acceptability of peer-delivered HIV self-testing and PrEP for young women in Kampala, Uganda. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1163. [PMID: 37322510 PMCID: PMC10273744 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16081-0] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) account for 29% of new HIV infections in Uganda despite representing just 10% of the population. Peer support improves AGYW linkage to HIV care and medication adherence. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of peer delivered HIV self-tests (HIVST) and oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to young women in Uganda. METHODS Between March and September 2021, we conducted a pilot study of 30 randomly selected young women, aged 18-24 years, who had received oral PrEP for at least three months, but had suboptimal adherence as measured by urine tenofovir testing (< 1500 ng/ml). Participants were offered daily oral PrEP and attended clinic visits three and six months after enrollment. Between clinic visits, participants were visited monthly by trained peers who delivered HIVST and PrEP. Feasibility and acceptability of peer-delivered PrEP and HIVST (intervention) were measured by comparing actual versus planned intervention delivery and product use. We conducted two focus groups with young women, and five in-depth interviews with peers and health workers to explore their experiences with intervention delivery. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS At baseline, all 30 enrolled young women (median age 20 years) accepted peer-delivered PrEP and HIVST. Peer delivery visit completion was 97% (29/30) and 93% (28/30) at three and six months, respectively. The proportion of participants with detectable tenofovir in urine was 93% (27/29) and 57% (16/28) at months three and six, respectively. Four broad themes emerged from the qualitative data: (1) Positive experiences of peer delivered HIVST and PrEP; (2) The motivating effect of peer support; (3) Perceptions of female controlled HIVST and PrEP; and (4) Multi-level barriers to HIVST and PrEP use. Overall, peer delivery motivated young women to use HIVST and PrEP and encouraged persistence on PrEP by providing non-judgmental client-friendly services and adherence support. CONCLUSION Peer delivery of HIVST and oral PrEP was feasible and acceptable to this sample of young women with suboptimal PrEP adherence in Uganda. Future larger controlled studies should evaluate its effectiveness among African AGWY.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Nakalega
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda.
| | | | | | - Samuel Kizito
- Brown School at Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Juliet Allen Babirye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Emmie Mulumba
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Josephine Nabukeera
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ggita
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Carolyne Akello
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Brenda Gati Mirembe
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Zubair Lukyamuzi
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Catherine Nakaye
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hajira Kataike
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joel Maena
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hadijah Kalule Nabunya
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Florence Biira
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Christine Nagawa
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University (MU-JHU) Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Monica Gandhi
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrew Mujugira
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Mangenah C, Nhamo D, Gudukeya S, Gwavava E, Gavi C, Chiwawa P, Chidawanyika S, Muleya P, Taruberekera N, Madidi N, Ncube G, Bara H, Napierala S, Dunbar M, Hoke T, Kripke K, Cowan FM, Torjesen K, Terris-Prestholt F. Efficiency in PrEP Delivery: Estimating the Annual Costs of Oral PrEP in Zimbabwe. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:161-170. [PMID: 34453240 PMCID: PMC8786759 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-021-03367-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although oral PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV acquisition, optimizing continuation among beneficiaries is challenging in many settings. We estimated the costs of delivering oral PrEP to populations at risk of HIV in seven clinics in Zimbabwe. Full annual economic costs of oral PrEP initiations and continuation visits were estimated from the providers’ perspective for a six-clinic NGO network and one government SGBV clinic in Zimbabwe (January–December 2018). Disaggregating costs of full initiation and incremental follow-up visits enabled modeling of the impact of duration of continuation on the cost per person-year ($pPY) on PrEP. 4677 people initiated oral PrEP, averaging 2.7 follow-up visits per person. Average cost per person initiated was $238 ($183–$302 across the NGO clinics; $86 in the government facility). The full cost per initiation visit, including central and direct costs, was $178, and the incremental cost per follow-up visit, capturing only additional resources used directly in the follow up visits, was $22. The average duration of continuation was 3.0 months, generating an average $pPY of $943, ranging from $839 among adolescent girls and young women to $1219 in men. Oral PrEP delivery costs varied substantially by scale of initiations and by duration of continuation and type of clinic. Extending the average oral PrEP continuation from 2.7 to 5 visits (about 6 months) would greatly improve service efficiency, cutting the $pPY by more than half.
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10
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Sahay S, Verma A, Shewale S, Bangar S, Bijeshkumar A, Angolkar M, Subramanian T, Chandhiok N. Understanding issues around use of oral pre exposure prophylaxis among female sex workers in India. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:930. [PMID: 34496781 PMCID: PMC8424160 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-06612-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Empowering female sex workers (FSWs) through women controlled HIV prevention option has been in focus globally. FSWs are important target for oral pre exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). A multi-centric qualitative study was conducted to explore the FSWs' willingness to use oral PrEP in India. METHODS Seventy three interviews and 02 focus group discussions were conducted at 3 high HIV prevalent states in India during 2013-14. Study explored issues around willingness to use oral PrEP. The study was approved by the respective institutional ethics committee of the study sites. Thematic analysis using grounded theory approach was used to analyze the data in N-VIVO version 8.0. RESULTS Thematic analysis showed events of forced condom-less sex. FSWs believed that oral PrEP could provide independence, financial gains, and privacy and therefore hoped to use it as an alternative to male condom. However, any impact on physical/ aesthetic attributes and reproductive system were not acceptable and could become a barrier. Provider initiated oral PrEP was not preferred. Providers voiced safety monitoring concerns. Adherence emerged as a challenge because of: (1) alcohol use; (2) taking PrEP tablet each day being boring; (3) Stigma because Oral PrEP is ARV based. Alcohol use and dread of repetitive dose brings forth the need for long acting oral PrEP. CONCLUSION Oral PrEP is acceptable among FSWs; it should be rolled out alongside strong messages on STI protection and PrEP as compliment to condoms. PrEP roll out requires educating communities about HIV treatment versus prevention. Long-acting oral PrEP could address both 'boredom' and alcoholism and sustain adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Sahay
- Division of Social and Behavioral Research, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Archana Verma
- Division of Social and Behavioral Research, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Suhas Shewale
- Division of Social and Behavioral Research, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sampada Bangar
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, 73, G-Block, MIDC, Bhosari, Pune, Maharashtra, 411026, India
| | - Athokpam Bijeshkumar
- Division of Social and Behavioral Research, ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mubashir Angolkar
- Department of Public Health, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, KLE University, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Thilakavathi Subramanian
- Division of Social and Behavioral Research, ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nomita Chandhiok
- Division of Reproductive and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, Delhi, India
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11
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Nalukwago GK, Isunju JB, Muwonge T, Katairo T, Bunani N, Semitala F, Kyambadde P, Matovu F. Adherence to oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among female sex workers in Kampala, Uganda. Afr Health Sci 2021; 21:1048-1058. [PMID: 35222566 PMCID: PMC8843287 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v21i3.12] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In Kampala Uganda, female sex workers (FSWs) have high HIV prevalence (33%). Oral PrEP is a novel HIV prevention intervention that offers hope to decrease HIV incidence in key populations especially among FSWs. Studies have shown that with poor adherence, oral PrEP has no efficacy, and therefore adherence to PrEP is critical among FSWs to maximize HIV prevention. However, implementation data on adherence to PrEP among FSWs is limited so this study sought to assess adherence to PrEP. Specifically, we sought to 1) determine the level of adherence to PrEP among FSWs, and 2) determine factors associated with PrEP adherence. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted from November to December 2018; 126 FSWs using PrEP were interviewed using a questionnaire. Adherence was categorically defined as high adherence and low adherence. Logistic regression was done. RESULTS Using long-term contraception methods (OR 0.06, 95% CI: 0.04-0.77) and not using condoms with clients (OR 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01-0.42) were negatively associated with high PrEP adherence. CONCLUSION Barriers to PrEP adherence need to be addressed for successful PrEP implementation to improve adherence going forward. Service care providers should reinforce positive behaviors such as use of condoms devotedly during PrEP breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Kakoola Nalukwago
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Public Health
- Makerere University Infectious Diseases Institute, Research
| | | | | | - Thomas Katairo
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit
| | - Nelson Bunani
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Public Health
| | - Fred Semitala
- Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Unit
| | | | - Flavia Matovu
- Makerere University School of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- MU-JHU Research Collaboration
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12
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Were D, Musau A, Mugambi M, Plotkin M, Kabue M, Manguro G, Forsythe S, Glabius R, Mutisya E, Dotson M, Curran K, Reed J. An implementation model for scaling up oral pre-exposure prophylaxis in Kenya: Jilinde project. Gates Open Res 2021; 5:113. [PMID: 34988373 PMCID: PMC8669463 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13342.1] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an efficacious way to lower the risk of HIV acquisition among high-risk individuals. Despite the World Health Organization's 2015 recommendation that all persons at substantial risk of HIV infection be provided with access to oral PrEP, the rollout has been slow in many low- and middle-income countries. Initiatives for national rollout are few, and subtle skepticism persists in several countries about the feasibility of national PrEP implementation. We describe the conceptual design of the Jilinde project, which is implementing oral PrEP as a routine service at a public health scale in Kenya. We describe the overlapping domains of supply, demand, and government and community ownership, which combine to produce a learning laboratory environment to explore the scale-up of PrEP. We describe how Jilinde approaches PrEP uptake and continuation by applying supply and demand principles and ensures that government and community ownership informs policy, coordination, and sustainability. We describe the "learning laboratory" approach that informs strategic and continuous learning, which allows for adjustments to the project. Jilinde's conceptual model illustrates how the coalescence of these concepts can promote scale-up of PrEP in real-world conditions and offers critical lessons on an implementation model for scaling up oral PrEP in low- and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mary Mugambi
- Division of National AIDS and STI Control Program, Nairobi, 00202, Kenya
| | | | - Mark Kabue
- Jhpiego, USA, Baltimore, Maryland, 21231, USA
| | - Griffins Manguro
- International Center for Reproductive Health, Kenya, Mombasa, 80103, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jason Reed
- Jhpiego, USA, Baltimore, Maryland, 21231, USA
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Katz AWK, Mensch BS, Woeber K, Musara P, Etima J, van der Straten A. Understanding women's motivations to participate in MTN-003/VOICE, a phase 2b HIV prevention trial with low adherence. BMC Womens Health 2019; 19:18. [PMID: 30683103 PMCID: PMC6347781 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-019-0713-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In biomedical prevention trials, correct and consistent use of the investigational product is crucial to determine efficacy. Product adherence in VOICE, a phase 2B randomized trial of a vaginal gel and oral tablets for HIV prevention, was low (~ 34%), yet self-reported adherence and retention was high (> 90%). This analysis from VOICE-D, a post-trial qualitative ancillary study, explores motivations to participate in VOICE, and possible sources of misalignment between the stated priorities of the trial and the participants. METHODS VOICE-D enrolled 171 former VOICE participants to investigate, among other things, reasons for joining and remaining in the trial. Local language in-depth interviews and focus groups were transcribed and translated into English and coded and analyzed using NVivo. Data on motivation to join obtained from a VOICE termination visit survey of 106 participants were also analyzed to corroborate the VOICE-D findings. RESULTS Participants primarily participated for personal health benefits (e.g. free healthcare and HIV testing) and reported remaining enrolled from a sense of commitment to the trial. Altruistic motivations were the most commonly stated motivation on the termination visit survey; qualitatively, many of those stating altruistic reasons also desired personal health benefits. Joining for financial reimbursement was not commonly mentioned. Social networks influenced recruitment and spread therapeutic misconception. CONCLUSIONS Women's participation for personal health benefits highlighted their desire to monitor their HIV risk and overall health. Helping participants view use of investigational products as improving social capital and reminding participants of their study responsibilities may improve trial outcomes. Understanding the reasons for participating in studies will help to ensure alignment between priorities of researchers and participants. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02358616 ; Posted February 9, 2015, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana W K Katz
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 351 California St, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94104, USA.
| | | | - Kubashni Woeber
- South African Medical Research Council, HIV Prevention Research Unit, Durban, South Africa
| | - Petina Musara
- University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences Clinical Trials Research Centre (UZCHS-CTRC), Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Juliane Etima
- Makerere University-Johns Hopkins University Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ariane van der Straten
- Women's Global Health Imperative, RTI International, 351 California St, Suite 500, San Francisco, CA, 94104, USA.,Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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