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Hanum N, Cambiano V, Loncar D, Mandalia S, Sharp A, Lwanga J, Tiraboschi J, Phillips AN, Lampe FC, Beck EJ, Fox J. Behaviour changes following HIV diagnosis among men who have sex with men in the era of treatment as prevention: data from a prospective study. AIDS Care 2024; 36:711-731. [PMID: 37527426 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2230884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
We described the longitudinal changes in sexual behaviour and associated factors among newly diagnosed with HIV men who have sex with men participating in a prospective observational study from a London HIV clinic (2015-2018). Participants self-completed questionnaires at baseline, months 3 and 12. Information collected included socio-demographic, sexual behaviour, health, lifestyle and social support. Trends in sexual behaviours over one year following diagnosis and associated factors were assessed using generalized estimating equations with logit link. Condomless sex (CLS) dropped from 62.2% at baseline to 47.6% at month-three but increased again to 61.8% at month-12 (p-trend = 0.790). Serodiscordant-CLS increased between month-three and month-12 (from 13.1% to 35.6%, p-trend < 0.001). The prevalence of serodiscordant-CLS with high risk of transmitting to their partners at month-three was 10.7%. CLS was higher among men who reported recreational drug use (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 3.03, 95%CI 1.47-6.24, p = 0.003), those with undetectable viral load (aOR 2.17, 95%CI 1.22-3.84, p = 0.008) and those who agreed with a statement "condoms are not necessary when HIV viral load is undetectable" (aOR 3.41, 95%CI 1.58-7.38, p = 0.002). MSM continued to engage in CLS after HIV diagnosis, which coincided with U = U publications and increased throughout the study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dejan Loncar
- University of Geneva Institute of Global Health, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Alice Sharp
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Eduard J Beck
- NPMS-HHC CIC, London, UK
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julie Fox
- Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Stephenson R, Sullivan SP, Pitter RA, Hunter AS, Chavanduka TMD. Are We Still Having Sex? Results of Round Two of the Love and Sex in the Time of COVID Survey with Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2338-2348. [PMID: 35044555 PMCID: PMC8767038 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03580-1] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents data from the Love and Sex in the Time of COVID survey, an online survey with US gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. The first round of the Love and Sex in the Time of COVID-19 survey was conducted online from April to May, 2020: the second round was collected November 2020 to January 2021. GBMSM were recruited through advertisements featured on social networking platforms. Analysis examines changes in self-reported measures of sexual behavior (number of sex partners, number of anal sex partners and number of anal sex partners not protected by pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or condoms) between those with complete data for round one and round two of the surveys (n = 280). While in round one, men reported a moderate willingness to have sex during COVID-19 (3.5 on a scale from 1 to 5), this had reduced significantly to 2.1 by round two. Men reported declines in the number of unprotected anal sex partners since pre-COVID. Perceptions of a longer time until the end of the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with increases in the number of sex partners and UAI partners. The results illustrate some significant declines in sexual behavior among GBMSM as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed. As vaccine programs continue to roll out across the U.S, as lockdowns ease and as we return to some normalcy, it will be important to continue to think critically about ways to re-engage men in HIV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
| | - Stephen P Sullivan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Renée A Pitter
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Alexis S Hunter
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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3
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Tekletsadik EA, Ayisa AA, Mekonen EG, Workneh BS, Ali MS. Determinants of risky sexual behaviour among undergraduate students at the University of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia. Epidemiol Infect 2021; 150:e2. [PMID: 34879219 PMCID: PMC8753482 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268821002661] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Risky sexual behaviour (RSB) is defined as behaviours leading to sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancies. According to the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, HIV infection was very high among adolescents and youths living in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence of RSB and associated factors among undergraduate students at the University of Gondar.An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2019 and a simple random sampling technique was employed to select 420 students. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire, entered into Epi-info version 7.0 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for analysis, and presented in frequencies, percentages and tables. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were carried out to identify variables having significant association with RSB.The prevalence of RSB among undergraduate students at the University of Gondar was 44.0%. Age [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.19-3.79)], residence [AOR: 2.14; 95% CI (1.22-3.75)], living arrangement [AOR: 9.79; 95% CI (5.34-17.9)], daily religious attendance[AOR: 0.57; 95% CI (0.33-0.99)], drink alcohol [AOR: 9.19; 95% CI (3.74-22.59)] and having information about reproductive health and sexually transmitted diseases [AOR:3.05; 95% CI (1.00-9.27)] were factors significantly associated with RSB.Nearly half of the respondents engaged in risky sexual activity. This prevalence is high and the students are at high risk of exposure to sexually transmitted diseases that need reproductive health intervention like counselling and discussion. Creating awareness is needed for the students regarding reproductive health and the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, giving special attention is required for students who use alcohol, who did not live with family and who have urban residence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esayas Alemshet Tekletsadik
- Department of Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Aynalem Adu Ayisa
- Department of Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Enyew Getaneh Mekonen
- Department of Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Belayneh Shetie Workneh
- Department of Emergency and critical care Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Mohammed Seid Ali
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Balakrishna S, Salazar-Vizcaya L, Schmidt AJ, Kachalov V, Kusejko K, Thurnheer MC, Roth JA, Nicca D, Cavassini M, Battegay M, Schmid P, Bernasconi E, Günthard HF, Rauch A, Kouyos RD. Assessing the drivers of syphilis among men who have sex with men in Switzerland reveals a key impact of screening frequency: A modelling study. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009529. [PMID: 34699524 PMCID: PMC8570495 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, syphilis diagnoses among men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) have strongly increased in Europe. Understanding the drivers of the ongoing epidemic may aid to curb transmissions. In order to identify the drivers of syphilis transmission in MSM in Switzerland between 2006 and 2017 as well as the effect of potential interventions, we set up an epidemiological model stratified by syphilis stage, HIV-diagnosis, and behavioral factors to account for syphilis infectiousness and risk for transmission. In the main model, we used ‘reported non-steady partners’ (nsP) as the main proxy for sexual risk. We parameterized the model using data from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study, Swiss Voluntary Counselling and Testing center, cross-sectional surveys among the Swiss MSM population, and published syphilis notifications from the Federal Office of Public Health. The main model reproduced the increase in syphilis diagnoses from 168 cases in 2006 to 418 cases in 2017. It estimated that between 2006 and 2017, MSM with HIV diagnosis had 45.9 times the median syphilis incidence of MSM without HIV diagnosis. Defining risk as condomless anal intercourse with nsP decreased model accuracy (sum of squared weighted residuals, 378.8 vs. 148.3). Counterfactual scenarios suggested that increasing screening of MSM without HIV diagnosis and with nsP from once every two years to twice per year may reduce syphilis incidence (at most 12.8% reduction by 2017). Whereas, increasing screening among MSM with HIV diagnosis and with nsP from once per year to twice per year may substantially reduce syphilis incidence over time (at least 63.5% reduction by 2017). The model suggests that reporting nsP regardless of condom use is suitable for risk stratification when modelling syphilis transmission. More frequent screening of MSM with HIV diagnosis, particularly those with nsP may aid to curb syphilis transmission. Syphilis, one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, remains a major public health problem. Over the last decade, a rising number of diagnoses especially in men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) was observed in Western Europe and Northern America. In Switzerland, the number of syphilis diagnoses in MSM tripled between 2006 and 2017. In this study, we used a mathematical model to assess the drivers of this increase among MSM in Switzerland. Our model could reproduce the increase in syphilis diagnoses in both MSM with and without HIV diagnosis between 2006 and 2017. Based on this model we found that MSM with HIV diagnosis have an over 45 times higher syphilis incidence than MSM without HIV diagnosis. Furthermore, we found that reported sex with non-steady partners is a useful proxy of behavioral risk. Considering counterfactual scenarios, we showed that increasing the screening frequency for syphilis among MSM with HIV diagnosis and with non-steady partners from once a year to twice per year can reduce syphilis incidence by 63.5% to 99.2%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj Balakrishna
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
| | - Luisa Salazar-Vizcaya
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Axel J. Schmidt
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Sigma Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Viacheslav Kachalov
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Kusejko
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Jan A. Roth
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Research and Analytical Services, Department of Informatics, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dunja Nicca
- Institute of Nursing Science, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Cavassini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Battegay
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Schmid
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Enos Bernasconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Regional Hospital Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Huldrych F. Günthard
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Roger D. Kouyos
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Medical Virology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Kalichman SC, Kalichman MO, Eaton LA. Undisclosed HIV Status to Sex Partners and Its Unintended Consequences in the Era of Undetectable = Untransmittable. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 88:149-156. [PMID: 34267054 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002762] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and sustained HIV suppression virtually eliminate HIV transmission, eg, having an undetectable viral load renders HIV untransmittable (U=U). Owing to the greatly reduced likelihood of HIV transmission when viral load is undetectable, we studied one behavioral ramification of adopting a U=U prevention strategy-not disclosing HIV status to sex partners. SETTING Cisgender men recruited through community outreach in the state of Georgia, USA. METHODS We examined HIV status disclosure to sex partners among 345 young (median age = 29 years) men receiving ART. Data were collected using computerized interviews, daily sexual behavior surveys over 28 days, unannounced pill counts for ART adherence, urine tests for drug use and urogenital health, and blood samples for HIV viral load. RESULTS One in 3 participants (34%) engaged in condomless anal/vaginal intercourse with an HIV-negative/unknown HIV status partner over 28 days. Average ART adherence was 76%, and one in 5 men had detectable HIV viral loads. Men who engaged in condomless sex with undisclosed partners demonstrated significantly less HIV disclosure to family and friends and had fewer enacted stigma experiences. Hierarchical regression models showed that endorsing U=U as a personal HIV prevention strategy predicted undisclosed condomless sex over and above substance use, HIV stigma experiences, disclosure to family and friends, ART adherence, and HIV viral load. CONCLUSIONS Interventions are needed to improve ART adherence and assist men living with HIV in their decisions to disclose HIV status to sex partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth C Kalichman
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT
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BakenRa A, Gero A, Sanders J, Simmons R, Fay K, Turok DK. Pregnancy Risk by Frequency and Timing of Unprotected Intercourse Before Intrauterine Device Placement for Emergency Contraception. Obstet Gynecol 2021; 138:79-84. [PMID: 34259467 PMCID: PMC8216596 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess pregnancy risk after intrauterine device (IUD) placement by the number and timing of unprotected intercourse episodes in the prior 14 days. METHODS This was a secondary analysis of a randomized trial that compared the copper T380A IUD and levonorgestrel 52-mg intrauterine system for emergency contraception. At enrollment, participants had a negative urine pregnancy test result and reported the frequency and timing of any unprotected intercourse in the preceding 14 days. We assessed pregnancies 1 month after IUD placement and compared pregnancy risk by single or multiple unprotected intercourse episodes and by timing (5 or fewer days before IUD placement or 6 or more days before). RESULTS Among the 655 participants, one pregnancy occurred in a patient who reported intercourse once 48 hours before IUD placement. Multiple unprotected intercourse episodes were reported by 286 participants (43.7%), and 95 participants (14.4%) reported at least one unprotected intercourse episode 6 or more days before IUD placement. No pregnancies occurred among those with multiple unprotected intercourse episodes (0%, 97.5% CI 0-1.3%) or with any unprotected intercourse episode 6-14 days before IUD placement (0.0%, 97.5% CI 0.0-3.8%). Pregnancy risk difference did not significantly differ by single compared with multiple unprotected intercourse episodes (0.3%, 95% CI -0.3% to 0.8%), nor by unprotected intercourse 5 or fewer days before IUD placement or 6 or more days before (0.2%, 95% CI -0.2% to 0.5%). CONCLUSION With a negative urine pregnancy test result at IUD placement, 1-month pregnancy risk remains low, regardless of frequency or timing of unprotected intercourse in the prior 14 days. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02175030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abena BakenRa
- University of California Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, California; and the University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Llangarí-Arizo LM, Sadiq ST, Márquez C, Cooper P, Furegato M, Zhou L, Aranha L, Mateo MM, Romero-Sandoval N. Sexually transmitted infections and factors associated with risky sexual practices among female sex workers: A cross sectional study in a large Andean city. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250117. [PMID: 33956840 PMCID: PMC8101946 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are limited published data on factors related to risky sexual practices (RSP) affecting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among female sex workers (FSWs) in Ecuador. Methods Cross-sectional study of FSWs presenting for a consultation in a primary health care centre during 2017. A questionnaire was administered to collect information on RSP and potential risk factors including age, membership of an FSW association, self-report of previous STI diagnosis, previous treatment for suspected STI and temporary migration for sex work. Associations between RSP and potential risk factors were estimated by logistic regression. The proportion of STI was estimated from vaginal swabs by real-time PCR for four sexually transmitted pathogens (Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Mycoplasma genitalium). Results Of 249 FSWs recruited, 22.5% had reported RSPs at least once during sex work. Among FSWs reporting unprotected vaginal sex in the previous three months, 25.5% had at least one other RSP type. 17.6% (95%CI 13.3–22.8) had at least one active STI. Prevalence of co-infections was 2.4% (95%CI 1.1–5.2). In multivariable analysis, RSP was associated with age (adjusted OR 1.06; 95%CI 1.02–1.10), membership of an FSWs association (aOR 3.51; 95%CI 1.60–7.72) and self-reported previous STI (aOR 3.43; 95%CI 1.28–9.17). Conclusions Among a population of female sex workers with high proportion of STIs, increasing age and belonging to an FSWs association was associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in RSP with clients. Engaging with FSWs organisations may reduce the burden of STI among sex workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Marina Llangarí-Arizo
- School of Medicine, Universidad Internacional de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Red Internacional Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines – GRAAL, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - S. Tariq Sadiq
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia Márquez
- School of Medicine, Universidad Internacional de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Philip Cooper
- School of Medicine, Universidad Internacional de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martina Furegato
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Liqing Zhou
- Applied Diagnostic Research and Evaluation Unit, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George’s University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Luisa Aranha
- Ministerio de Salud Pública de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Miguel Martín Mateo
- School of Medicine, Universidad Internacional de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Unitat de Bioestadística, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Red Internacional Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines – GRAAL, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Romero-Sandoval
- School of Medicine, Universidad Internacional de Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Red Internacional Grups de Recerca d’Amèrica i Àfrica Llatines – GRAAL, Barcelona, Spain
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Turpin RE, Salerno JP, Rosario AD, Boekeloo B. Victimization, Substance Use, Depression, and Sexual Risk in Adolescent Males Who Have Sex with Males: A Syndemic Latent Profile Analysis. Arch Sex Behav 2021; 50:961-971. [PMID: 32274744 PMCID: PMC10712424 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01685-z] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Adolescent males who have sex with males (AMSM) are at increased risk of HIV/STI acquisition compared to other adolescents, making sexual risk behaviors in this population a priority public health focus. AMSM experience more victimization (including sexual/partner violence), depression, and substance abuse than their heterosexual counterparts; these may form a syndemic associated with risky sexual behavior. We pooled data from the 2015 and 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, restricted to male students who reported a previous male sexual partner (n = 448). Latent profile analysis was used to identify syndemic profiles, with log-binomial and cumulative complementary log-log models used to test associations with substance use at last intercourse, condomless sex at last intercourse, and the number of sexual partners. Nearly all measures of victimization, depression, and substance use had bivariate associations with greater substance use during sex and more sexual partners. We identified three profiles of AMSM: The profile (n = 55) with the greatest risk factors (evident of a syndemic) had substantially higher prevalence of substance use during sex (aPR = 4.74, 95% CI 3.02, 7.43) and more sexual partners (aPR = 2.45, 95% CI 1.39, 4.31) than the profile with the lowest risk factors (n = 326) after adjusting for confounders. This profile was not associated with condomless sex. We identified a syndemic characterized by victimization, depression, and substance use associated with risky sexual behaviors in a nationally representative sample of AMSM. Comprehensive sexual risk reduction interventions incorporating mental health and substance use are critically important in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodman E Turpin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, 4200 Valley Dr., #2242, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
| | - John P Salerno
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Andre D Rosario
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Howard University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Bradley Boekeloo
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
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Gilbert L, Goddard-Eckrich D, Chang M, Hunt T, Wu E, Johnson K, Richards S, Goodwin S, Tibbetts R, Metsch LR, El-Bassel N. Effectiveness of a Culturally Tailored HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention Intervention for Black Women in Community Supervision Programs: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e215226. [PMID: 33835175 PMCID: PMC8035652 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.5226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Concentrated epidemics of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have persisted among Black women in community supervision programs (CSPs) in the United States. Accumulating research has highlighted the effectiveness of culturally tailored HIV/STI interventions for Black women; however, there is a dearth of such interventions for the large number of Black women in CSPs. OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of a 5-session culturally tailored group-based intervention (Empowering African-American Women on the Road to Health [E-WORTH]) with individualized computerized modules and streamlined HIV testing in reducing STIs and condomless sex vs a 1-session streamlined HIV testing control condition. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This randomized clinical trial was conducted from November 18, 2015, (first recruitment) to August 20, 2019 (last 12-month follow-up). Black women mandated to probation, parole, or alternative-to-incarceration programs in New York City who had a history of drug use were recruited and randomized to receive either E-WORTH or a streamlined HIV testing control condition. Both conditions were delivered by Black female staff at a large CSP. The analysis took an intention-to-treat approach. INTERVENTION E-WORTH included a 1-hour individual HIV testing and orientation session and 4 weekly 90-minute group sessions. The control condition included one 30-minute session of HIV testing and information. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Primary outcomes were incidence of any STI (biologically assayed chlamydia, gonorrhea, and Trichomonas vaginalis) at the 12-month assessment and the number of condomless acts of vaginal or anal intercourse in the past 90 days during the 12-month period. RESULTS A total of 352 participants who identified as Black or African American were enrolled, including 79 (22.5%) who also identified as Latinx. The mean (SD) age was 32.4 (11.0) years. A total of 172 participants (48.9%) were assigned to the E-WORTH condition, and 180 (51.1%) were assigned to the control condition. Compared with control participants, participants assigned to the E-WORTH condition had 54% lower odds of testing positive for any STI at the 12-month follow-up (odds ratio, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.25-0.88; P = .01) and reported 38% fewer acts of condomless vaginal or anal intercourse during the 12-month period (incidence rate ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.39-0.97; P = .04). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The magnitudes of effects found across biological and behavioral outcomes in this randomized clinical trial indicate the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing E-WORTH in real-world CSPs. The findings lend further evidence to the promise of culturally tailored HIV/STI interventions for Black women. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02391233.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Gilbert
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Dawn Goddard-Eckrich
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Mingway Chang
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Timothy Hunt
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Elwin Wu
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
| | - Karen Johnson
- University of Alabama School of Social Work, Tuscaloosa
| | | | - Sharun Goodwin
- New York City Department of Probation, New York, New York
| | | | - Lisa R. Metsch
- Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Nabila El-Bassel
- Social Intervention Group, Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, New York
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10
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Haberer JE, Bukusi EA, Mugo NR, Pyra M, Kiptinness C, Oware K, Garrison LE, Thomas KK, Musinguzi N, Morrison S, Anderson PL, Ngure K, Baeten JM. Effect of SMS reminders on PrEP adherence in young Kenyan women (MPYA study): a randomised controlled trial. Lancet HIV 2021; 8:e130-e137. [PMID: 33662265 PMCID: PMC8289198 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-3018(20)30307-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [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] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective for preventing HIV acquisition. However, adherence among young women (aged 18-24 years) has been challenging. SMS reminders have been shown to improve adherence to antiretroviral therapy in some contexts, including in combination with real-time adherence monitoring. We aimed to determine the effect of SMS reminders on PrEP adherence among young women in Kenya over a 2-year period. METHODS The monitoring PrEP among young adult women (MPYA) study was an open label randomised controlled trial involving young adult women at high risk of HIV in Thika and Kisumu, Kenya. Participants were recruited from colleges, vocational institutions, informal settlements, and community-based organisations supporting young women. Women had to be aged 18-24 years and at high risk of HIV acquisition (defined as a VOICE risk score of 5 or higher, or being in a serodiscordant relationship). Study staff randomly assigned participants (1:1) to receive either SMS reminders (SMS reminder group) or no reminders (no SMS reminder group). Study group assignment was known to trial staff but masked to investigators. Reminders were initially sent daily and participants could switch to as-needed reminders (ie, sent only if they missed opening the monitor as expected) after 1 month. Study visits occurred at 1 month, 3 months, and then quarterly (ie, every 3 months). The primary outcome was PrEP adherence over 24 months measured with a real-time electronic monitor and assessed by negative binomial models adjusted for the study site and quarter among participants who collected PrEP. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02915367. FINDINGS Of 642 women initially approached, 348 eligible women were enrolled between Dec 21, 2016, and Feb 5, 2018. Participants were randomly assigned to either the SMS reminder group (n=173) or the no SMS reminder group (n=175). The median age was 21 years (IQR 19-22) and 228 (66%) of the 348 participants reported condomless sex in the month before baseline. 24 (14%) of the 173 participants assigned to receive daily SMS reminders later opted for as-needed reminders. 69 291 (97%) of 71 791 SMS reminders were sent as planned. Among participants collecting PrEP (thus potentially suggesting a desire for HIV protection), electronically monitored adherence averaged 26·8% over 24 months and was similar by study group (27·0% with SMS, 26·6% without SMS, adjusted incidence rate ratio 1·16 [95% CI 0·93-1·45], p=0·19). There were no serious adverse events related to trial participation; five social harms occurred in each study group, primarily related to PrEP use. INTERPRETATION SMS reminders were ineffective in promoting PrEP adherence among young Kenyan women. Given the overall low adherence in the trial, additional interventions are needed to support PrEP use in this population. FUNDING US National Institute of Mental Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Haberer
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Nelly R Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya
| | - Maria Pyra
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Kevin Oware
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Lindsey E Garrison
- Center for Global Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Susan Morrison
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter L Anderson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Center for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Thika, Kenya; Department of Community Heath, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Gilead Sciences, Redwood City, CA, USA
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11
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Mimiaga MJ, Hughto JM, Klasko-Foster L, Jin H, Mayer KH, Safren SA, Biello KB. Substance Use, Mental Health Problems, and Physical and Sexual Violence Additively Increase HIV Risk Between Male Sex Workers and Their Male Clients in Northeastern United States. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2021; 86:305-312. [PMID: 33148992 PMCID: PMC8343953 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000002563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male sex workers (MSW) are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, with an estimated HIV prevalence in the United States of 19.3%. Existing research suggests that MSW are also at risk of adverse psychosocial problems. Cross-sectional studies of MSW have suggested that co-occurring epidemics or a "syndemic" of psychosocial problems may increase vulnerability to HIV acquisition/transmission by elevated sexual risk. To the best of our knowledge, there are no published studies examining this relationship longitudinally among MSW. This study examined how a syndemic of 6 psychosocial problems result in additive risk for condomless anal sex (CAS) with male clients among a multicity, longitudinal cohort of MSW. SETTING Community-based organization and health center in 2 Northeastern US cities. METHODS Between 2015 and 2017, 100 MSW from Boston, MA and Providence, RI completed behavioral/psychosocial surveys at baseline, 6 months, and 12months. Generalized estimating equation modeling was used to examine the prospective relationship of additive psychosocial problems and subsequent CAS with male clients, adjusting for age, site, race/ethnicity, MSW-type, and HIV serostatus. RESULTS Mean age = 34.7 (SD = 11.8); 62% racial/ethnic minority; and 20% HIV+. The prevalence of 6 psychosocial syndemic problems was substantial at baseline and remained high at each time point (all within the past 6 months): 74% problematic depressive symptoms, 27% polydrug use (3+ drugs, not including stimulants), 57% stimulant (methamphetamine/cocaine/crack) use, 44% hazardous drinking, 15% experienced client-specific physical/sexual violence, and 57% childhood sexual abuse. Looking at the number of psychosocial problems experienced, 7% had zero, 27% had 1, 24% had 2, 27% had 3, and 15% had 4 or more. We identified a statistically significant positive "dose-response" relationship between the number of psychosocial problems and CAS with male clients over time, with the greatest odds of engaging in CAS with a male client over follow-up among those with 4 or more psychosocial problems (adjusted odds ratio = 5.18, 95% CI: 1.61 to 16.62). CONCLUSIONS Internet escorts and street-based MSW are likely to experience psychosocial problems and engaging in HIV sexual risk with male clients. The accumulation of psychosocial problems additively predicted CAS with male clients in a prospective cohort of MSW. The specification of psychosocial problems presents distinct treatment targets for HIV prevention among MSW in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Mimiaga
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jaclyn M.W. Hughto
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Lynne Klasko-Foster
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Harry Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Harvard Medical School/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical, Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steven A. Safren
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Katie B. Biello
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
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12
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Gillespie D, Knapper C, Hughes D, Couzens Z, Wood F, de Bruin M, Ma R, Jones AT, Williams A, Hood K. Early impact of COVID-19 social distancing measures on reported sexual behaviour of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis users in Wales. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:85-87. [PMID: 32967930 PMCID: PMC7892366 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the early impact of COVID-19 and associated control measures on the sexual behaviour of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) users in Wales. METHODS Data were obtained from an ecological momentary assessment study of PrEP use and sexual behaviour. Participants were individuals accessing PrEP through the National Health Service (NHS) sexual health clinics across four health boards in Wales. Weekly data documenting condomless sex in the preceding week were analysed between 03/02/2020 and 10/05/2020. The introduction of social distancing measures and changes to sexual health clinics in Wales occurred on the week starting 16/03/2020. Two-level logistic regression models were fitted to condomless sex (yes/no) over time, included an indicator for the week starting 16/03/2020, and were extended to explore differential associations by relationship status and sexual health clinic. RESULTS Data were available from 56 participants and included 697 person-weeks (89% of the maximum number that could have been obtained). On average, 42% of participants reported condomless sex in the period prior to the introduction of social distancing measures and 20% reported condomless sex after (OR=0.16, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.37, p<0.001). There was some evidence to suggest that this association was moderated by relationship status (OR for single participants=0.09, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.23; OR for not single participants=0.46, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.25). CONCLUSIONS The introduction of social distancing measures and changes to PrEP services across Wales was associated with a marked reduction in reported instances of condomless sexual intercourse among respondents, with a larger reduction in those who were single compared with those who were not. The long-term impact of COVID-19 and associated control measures on this population's physical and mental health and well-being requires close examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gillespie
- Centre for Trials Research, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales
| | - Carys Knapper
- Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Newport, Wales
| | - Dyfrig Hughes
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales
| | | | - Fiona Wood
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Adam Thomas Jones
- Policy, Research and International Development, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Adam Williams
- Centre for Trials Research, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales
| | - Kerenza Hood
- Centre for Trials Research, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales
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Loosier PS, Carry M, Fasula A, Hatfield-Timajchy K, Jones SA, Harvill J, Smith T, McLaughlin J. An Investigation of Early Syphilis Among Men Who have Sex with Men: Alaska, 2018: Findings from a 2018 Rapid Ethnographic Assessment. J Community Health 2021; 46:22-30. [PMID: 32410089 PMCID: PMC11022833 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-020-00834-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The state of Alaska had a sharp increase in cases of primary and secondary syphilis among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in 2018, centered in Anchorage. A rapid ethnographic assessment was conducted in October 2018 to examine contextual factors contributing to local increases in syphilis. The assessment team conducted qualitative interviews with 64 (N=49 interviews) key informants in Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna Valley identified through the STD/HIV program at the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health (ADPH): ADPH staff (n = 11; 22%) Medical Providers (n = 18; 37%), Community-Based Organizations/Partners (n = 9; 18%), and GBMSM Community Members (n = 11; 22%). This project was deemed exempt from IRB review. Primary factors affecting syphilis transmission, care, and treatment among GBMSM were: (1) Low awareness about the current syphilis outbreak and ambivalence about syphilis and other STIs; (2) Aspects of sexual partnering such as travel, tourism, and the use of online sites and apps to facilitate anonymous sex and multiple (both sequential/concurrent) partnering; (3) The synergistic effects of substance use, homelessness, and transactional sex; (4) Choosing condomless sex; and (5) Challenges accessing healthcare, including the ability to find appropriate and culturally competent care. Syphilis increases may have been influenced by factors which spanned multiple sectors of the Anchorage community, including individual behavior, community-level risk and protective factors, and use of and interactions with resources offered by ADPH, community-based organizations, and medical providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penny S Loosier
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, MS US12-2, Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA.
| | - Monique Carry
- Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, MS US12-2, Atlanta, GA, 30329-4027, USA
| | - Amy Fasula
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kendra Hatfield-Timajchy
- Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Susan A Jones
- Section of Epidemiology, Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Jessica Harvill
- Section of Epidemiology, Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Tracy Smith
- Section of Epidemiology, Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Joseph McLaughlin
- Section of Epidemiology, Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Anchorage, AK, USA
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Guerras JM, Hoyos Miller J, Agustí C, Chanos S, Pichon F, Kuske M, Cigan B, Fuertes R, Stefanescu R, Ooms L, Casabona J, de la Fuente L, Belza MJ. Association of Sexualized Drug Use Patterns with HIV/STI Transmission Risk in an Internet Sample of Men Who Have Sex with Men from Seven European Countries. Arch Sex Behav 2021; 50:461-477. [PMID: 32875382 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01801-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We estimated the prevalence of overall sexualized drug use (SDU) and of chemsex in particular, assessed patterns of drug use, and identified subpopulations of men who have sex with men (MSM) where SDU and chemsex are more frequent. Using data from an online survey of 9407 MSM recruited during 2016 in 7 European countries, we calculated the proportion of participants who reported SDU and chemsex (mephedrone, methamphetamine, and/or GHB/GBL) in the last 12 months. We grouped the different drug-use combinations in patterns and described sexual risk behaviors, sexually transmitted infections (STI), and HIV seropositivity for each one of them. Factors associated with SDU and chemsex were assessed with two logistic regression models. SDU was reported by 17.7% and chemsex by 5.2%. Risk indicators increased through the different SDU patterns but were higher within those including chemsex drugs. In the multivariate analysis, chemsex was independently associated with living in Slovenia. Both SDU and chemsex were independently associated with living in Spain; being < 50 years old; living in cities of > 500,000 inhabitants; being open about their sex life; reporting transactional sex; condomless anal intercourse; having received an STI diagnosis and with being HIV positive or having been tested ≤ 12 months ago. Magnitude of associations was higher in the chemsex model. One in five participants reported SDU, but prevalence of chemsex was notably lower. However, the risk profiles and higher prevalence of HIV/STIs among those involved in chemsex suggest the existence of a subpopulation of MSM that could be playing a relevant role in the HIV and STI epidemics, especially in very large cities of some countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan-Miguel Guerras
- Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Hoyos Miller
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
- Departamento de Salud Pública y Materno-Infantil, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Cristina Agustí
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Salut, Centre Estudis Epidemiologics sobre les Infeccions de Transmissio Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Generalitat de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lieselot Ooms
- Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jordi Casabona
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Departament de Salut, Centre Estudis Epidemiologics sobre les Infeccions de Transmissio Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Generalitat de Catalunya, Badalona, Spain
| | - Luis de la Fuente
- Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - María-José Belza
- CIBER Epidemiologia y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Khan SI, Khan MNM, Irfan SD, Rumayan Hasan AM, Ross AG, Horng LMS, Lachowsky N, Knudson G, Azim T. The Effects of Methamphetamine Use on the Sexual Lives of Gender and Sexually Diverse People in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A Qualitative Study. Arch Sex Behav 2021; 50:479-493. [PMID: 32239362 PMCID: PMC7529687 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01674-2] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Methamphetamine use has increased among gender and sexually diverse people in several countries, including Bangladesh. This study aimed to explore the effects of methamphetamine on the sexual lives of these people in Dhaka, Bangladesh. An exploratory qualitative study was conducted, comprising 30 in-depth interviews with gender and sexually diverse people including males having sex with males, male sex workers, and transgender women (hijra) under HIV intervention coverage. Ten key informant interviews were also conducted with individuals who have expertise in relevant disciplines such as drug use, harm reduction, and HIV and AIDS. Digitally recorded data were manually analyzed under the thematic analysis framework. Findings indicated that many participants reported that methamphetamine brought changes in their sexual lives such as increased sexual drive, engagement in group sex, the increased ability to perform serial sex, transactional sex, impulsive and coercive sex, initiation and switching of male-to-male sexual practices, and limited condom use. Key informants noted that there is a dearth of methamphetamine-related services in Bangladesh. Methamphetamine use was found to lead to diverse effects on the sexual lives of gender and sexually diverse people, thus making it a driving force for shaping sexual practices and, hence, sexual risks. Therefore, it is essential for policy-level stakeholders and program managers to consider the risks of methamphetamine use due to their negative ramifications on sexual health, including HIV risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharful Islam Khan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
| | - Mohammad Niaz Morshed Khan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Samira Dishti Irfan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A M Rumayan Hasan
- Programme for HIV and AIDS, Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Avenue, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Allen G Ross
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lily Ming-Sha Horng
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Nathan Lachowsky
- Faculty of Human and Social Development, School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Gail Knudson
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tasnim Azim
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Stephenson R, Chavanduka TMD, Rosso MT, Sullivan SP, Pitter RA, Hunter AS, Rogers E. Sex in the Time of COVID-19: Results of an Online Survey of Gay, Bisexual and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men's Experience of Sex and HIV Prevention During the US COVID-19 Epidemic. AIDS Behav 2021; 25:40-48. [PMID: 32876905 PMCID: PMC7464052 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-03024-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents data from a recent cross-sectional survey of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in the US, to understand changes in sexual behavior and access to HIV prevention options (i.e. condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)) during the COVID-19 lockdown period. The Love and Sex in the Time of COVID-19 survey was conducted online from April to May, 2020. GBMSM were recruited through advertisements featured on social networking platforms, recruiting a sample size of 518 GBMSM. Analysis considers changes three in self-reported measures of sexual behavior: number of sex partners, number of anal sex partners and number of anal sex partners not protected by pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or condoms. Approximately two-thirds of the sample reported that they believed it was possible to contract COVID-19 through sex, with anal sex reported as the least risky sex act. Men did not generally feel it was important to reduce their number of sex partners during COVID-19, but reported a moderate willingness to have sex during COVID-19. For the period between February and April-May 20,202, participants reported a mean increase of 2.3 sex partners during COVID-19, a mean increase of 2.1 anal sex partners (range - 40 to 70), but a very small increase in the number of unprotected anal sex partners. Increases in sexual behavior during COVID-19 were associated with increases in substance use during the same period. High levels of sexual activity continue to be reported during the COVID-19 lockdown period and these high levels of sexual activity are often paralleled by increases in substance use and binge drinking. There is a clear need to continue to provide comprehensive HIV prevention and care services during COVID-19, and telehealth and other eHealth platforms provide a safe, flexible mechanism for providing services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Stephenson
- Department of Systems, Population and Leadership, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
| | | | - Matthew T Rosso
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Stephen P Sullivan
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Renée A Pitter
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Alexis S Hunter
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Erin Rogers
- Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Abstract
Globally, young people in sub-Saharan Africa continue to be the population at the greatest risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV and AIDS, Syphilis, and Gonorrhoea. Research has shown significant relationship between young peoples risky sexual behaviours and their vulnerability to these STIs. The study examined risky sexual behaviours among the youth in Ghana and Kenya in relation to socio-demographic characteristics. The paper uses data from the 2014 Demographic and Health Surveys of Ghana and Kenya. Young people between the ages of 15 to 24 years who were not married or living with a man/woman were included in the study. They comprised 2545 females and 1437 males from Ghana and 3546 females and 4317 males from Kenya. Descriptive analyses and binary logistic regression estimation technique were used to analyse the data. While awareness of AIDS was universal among the youth of both countries, utilisation of condoms on last penetrative sex was low. Risky sexual behaviour among young people was significantly associated with age, level of education, wealth status and religion. Among males and females in Ghana, the odds of sexual risk taking behaviour were higher among those who were employed than those who were unemployed. The reverse of this, however, occurred in Kenya, where males and females who were employed were less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviours than their counterparts who were unemployed. Our findings underscore the need for the relevant stakeholders in the two countries; Ministries of Health, Ghana/KenyaHealth Service, and NGOs concerned with sexual and reproductive health of young people, to intensify education on consistent and proper use of condoms and, position condom use as an acceptable behaviour especially among young people who are sexually active; with multiple partners and who may have STIs. Health literacy, which is the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions, should be given priority. The governments of the two countries, especially Kenya, should promote youth entrepreneurship to reduce unemployment and strengthen job creation as a way of ensuring that young people engage on productive economic activities. With productive economic activities, females for instance may not have to engage in transactional multiple sexual relationships which is risky and, therefore, predisposes them to STIs such as gonorrhoea and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hubert Amu
- Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
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18
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Baru A, Adeoye IA, Adekunle AO. "I was raped by the broker on the first day of my arrival in the town." Exploring reasons for risky sexual behavior among sexually-active unmarried young female internal migrants in Ethiopia: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242176. [PMID: 33186376 PMCID: PMC7665896 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies revealed that internal migrants are one of the most vulnerable groups for poor sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services. Risky sexual behavior (RSB) is a threat to public health and might lead to serious health problems such as unintended pregnancy, abortion, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV/AIDS. The reported prevalence of RSB among young female internal migrants in Ethiopia was as high as 70.3%. This requires in-depth understanding of the underlying cause. So, this study aimed at exploring reasons for RSB among sexually-active unmarried young female migrants in Ethiopia. METHODS A descriptive qualitative study was conducted using focus group discussions among sexually-active young female migrants working Burayu town. The focus group discussions were done in the local languages of participants (Afaan Oromo and Amharic). The recorded data were transcribed verbatim and translated into English for analysis and presentation in the study. The data were coded and Atlas.ti 7.5 software packages were used for data analyses. Then, the findings were thematically organized and analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS This study revealed that poor socio-economic status, social media indulgence, rape, substance use, poor knowledge of condom use, unfavorable attitude toward condom use, misconceptions about emergency pills, and the nature of the new environment and work place were responsible for RSB among internal migrants. The participants described that the migrants' economic conditions and workplace sexual violence are pushing them toward engaging in unprotected sex, being sexually abused, commercial sex, and transactional sex. CONCLUSIONS Internal migrants' sexual behavior is a complex process influenced by multiple interrelating systems. We have explored a set of factors namely poverty, pressure and sexual abuse from brokers, sexual exploitation and abuses against domestic workers by their bosses, indulgence in social media, sexting, inadequate knowledge, and unfavorable attitude toward condom use that led young female internal migrants to risky sexual practices. An intervention to promote safe sex targeted to this population is urgently needed with a focus on an intervention to eliminate misconceptions about condoms, increase proper condom use, and end sexual violence. Moreover, a relevant policy is needed to safeguard internal migrants from sexual exploitation and abuses at their work place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ararso Baru
- Institute of Life and Earth Science (Including Health and Agriculture), Pan African University, Ibadan, Nigeria
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, Ethiopia
- Research and Collaboration Department, Slum and Rural Health Initiative (SRHIN), Country Director to Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ikeola A. Adeoye
- Institute of Life and Earth Science (Including Health and Agriculture), Pan African University, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adeyemi O. Adekunle
- Institute of Life and Earth Science (Including Health and Agriculture), Pan African University, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Pasipanodya EC, Li MJ, Jain S, Sun X, Tobin J, Ellorin E, Dube M, Daar ES, Corado K, Milam J, Blumenthal J, Morris SH, Moore DJ. Greater Levels of Self-Reported Adherence to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) are Associated with Increased Condomless Sex Among Men Who Have Sex with Men. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:3192-3204. [PMID: 32350774 PMCID: PMC7508761 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02881-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV acquisition depends on treatment adherence; however, within-person associations between levels of PrEP adherence and engagement in condomless sex have not been well studied. In the context of a demonstration project, 372 men who have sex with men received once-daily PrEP and completed six study visits over 48 weeks. Two-part growth mixture modeling was used to examine the longitudinal trajectory of condomless anal intercourse (CAI) and self-reports of PrEP adherence, controlling for relevant covariates. Over time, greater PrEP adherence was contemporaneously associated with both a higher likelihood of engaging in any CAI and with a greater number of CAI acts. Substance use was also associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in CAI. Contemporaneous associations between self-reported PrEP adherence and CAI suggest that adherence behaviors may be motivated by the desire to mitigate risk of HIV infection; however, exact directionality is unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael J Li
- UCLA Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services (CHIPTS), Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Sonia Jain
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Xiaoying Sun
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Tobin
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Eric Ellorin
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Michael Dube
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Eric S Daar
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute At Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Katya Corado
- The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Joel Milam
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jill Blumenthal
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Sheldon H Morris
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - David J Moore
- Department of Psychiatry, HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program, University of California San Diego, 220 Dickinson Street, Suite B, MC8231, San Diego, CA, 92103, USA.
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20
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Baru A, Adeoye IA, Adekunle AO. Risky sexual behavior and associated factors among sexually-active unmarried young female internal migrants working in Burayu Town, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240695. [PMID: 33085687 PMCID: PMC7577498 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240695] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young female internal migrants are highly vulnerable to risky sexual behaviors (RSB) which may result in serious health problems such as unintended pregnancy, abortion and sexually transmitted infections including HIV. RSB includes early sexual debut (before 18 years), having multiple sexual partners, sex without a condom or inconsistent use of condom and sex under the influence of substance use. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and the factors associated with RSB among sexually-active unmarried young female internal migrants in Burayu Town, Ethiopia. METHODS A cross sectional study design was used for the study. A total of 267 respondents was recruited into the study using a simple random sampling technique. A semi-structured interviews-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information from the study participants. The collected data were cleaned, coded and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS Ver.21 for analysis. Multiple logistic regression models were used to indicate the association between dependent and independent variables. THE RESULTS About 35% of the young female internal migrants had sexual debut before the age of 18 years; 64.4% had sex without condom or inconsistently used condom; nearly one quarter of the participants had multiple sexual partners, and 29.6% had sex under the influence of substance uses. The magnitude of RSB among the study participants was (79.1%). Sexting [AOR 3.47(95%; CI;1.10-11.94)], frequent engagement in social media [AOR 10.9(95%;CI;2.31-51.89)], feeling of embarrassment to buy condom [AOR 8.28(95%; CI; 2.10-32.62)], unfavorable attitude toward using condom for steady and loving relationship [AOR 5.72(95%; CI; 1.47-22.24)] were related with RSB while self-efficacy [AOR 0.15(95%: CI; 0.04-0.57)] to use condom and perceived risks of getting pregnant [AOR 0.05(95%; CI; 0.01-0.23)] were found to be protective factors. CONCLUSION The study found high levels of RSB among sexually-active unmarried young female internal migrants. This finding suggests an urgent need of intervention to promote safe sex among this group. Special attention and prompt interventions are needed to promote the use of condoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ararso Baru
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arbaminch University, Arbaminch, Ethiopia
- Institute of Life and Earth Science (Including Health and Agriculture), Pan African University, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Slum and Rural Health Initiative Network/Ethiopia, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | - Ikeola A. Adeoye
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adeyemi O. Adekunle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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21
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Manathunge A, Barbaric J, Mestrovic T, Beneragama S, Bozicevic I. HIV prevalence, sexual risk behaviours and HIV testing among female sex workers in three cities in Sri Lanka: Findings from respondent-driven sampling surveys. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239951. [PMID: 33002081 PMCID: PMC7529248 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239951] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sri Lanka has a low-level HIV epidemic. This study aims to provide evidence on HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B (HBV) prevalence, sexual risk behaviours and utilisation of HIV prevention interventions among female sex workers (FSW) in the cities Colombo, Galle, and Kandy. Using respondent-driven sampling (RDS), we recruited a total of 458 FSW in Colombo, 360 in Galle and 362 in Kandy from November 2017 to March 2018. Participants provided biological specimens for testing for infections and completed a behavioural questionnaire. We found no HIV nor HBV infections in Galle and Kandy, and low HIV (0.4%) and HBV surface antigen (0.6%) prevalence in Colombo. FSW in Colombo had higher positivity on Treponema pallidum-particle agglutination test (8.4%) compared to Galle (2.0%) and Kandy (2.5%). About two thirds of FSW heard of HIV in each of the cities. Around 90% of FSW used condom at last sex with a client in both Colombo and Galle, but considerably less in Kandy (57.1%). However, lower proportion of FSW used condoms every time during sex with clients in the past 30 day: 22.9% of FSW in Colombo, 26.6% in Kandy and 68.4% in Galle. Across cities, 17.5%-39.5% of FSW reported being tested for HIV in the past 12 months or knowing HIV positive status. The commonest reasons for never testing for HIV was not knowing where to test (54.2% in Colombo, 41.8% in Galle, 48.1% in Kandy) followed by inconvenient testing location (23.7% in Colombo and 31.1% in Kandy). HIV has not yet been firmly established among FSW in three cities in Sri Lanka, but the vulnerability towards HIV and STIs is substantial. HIV interventions should be intensified by expanding community-based HIV testing approaches, increasingawareness of HIV risks and addressing socio-structural vulnerabilities of FSW to HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jelena Barbaric
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for HIV Strategic Information, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Ivana Bozicevic
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for HIV Strategic Information, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- * E-mail:
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22
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Rocha-Jiménez T, Morales-Miranda S, Fernández-Casanueva C, Brouwer KC. The influence of migration in substance use practices and HIV/STI-related risks of female sex workers at a dynamic border crossing. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2020; 19:503-520. [PMID: 30795721 PMCID: PMC8638352 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2018.1556763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We explored the association of international migration with substance use and HIV/STI risk factors among female sex workers (FSW). Using modified time-location sampling, we recruited 266 FSW at the Mexico-Guatemala border. Crude and adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the relationships. HIV risks, such as frequent hard drug use and drug use in another country, were greater for migrant compared to nonmigrant FSW. However, more migrant versus nonmigrant FSW reported consistent condom use with clients and having a health card. Our study highlights regional patterns of substance use among FSW and risk or protective behaviors related to migration status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresita Rocha-Jiménez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies, University of California, San Diego, California
| | | | - Carmen Fernández-Casanueva
- Centro de Investigaciones y Estudios Superiores en Antropología Social CIESAS, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, México
| | - Kimberly C Brouwer
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
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23
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Michael S, Soskolne V. Internalized homophobia and sexual risk behavior among HIV-infected men who have sex with men in Israel. Soc Work Health Care 2020; 59:709-724. [PMID: 33302820 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2020.1859045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Sexual risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) have been linked to diverse demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors. This study assessed the association between internalized homophobia and sexual risk behavior among HIV-infected MSM and the mediating effects of safe-sex self-efficacy and depression on this association, using a theoretical framework based on the Theory of Social Action. Data were collected from 124 HIV-infected MSM attending an AIDS clinic in Israel. No significant association was found between internalized homophobia and sexual risk behavior (unprotected anal intercourse). Examination of mediation effects revealed full mediation by depression, but not by self-efficacy. Depression and self-efficacy were the only significant explanatory variables of sexual risk behavior. Diverse social work interventions with HIV-infected MSM aimed at reducing sexual risk behaviors should include routine screening of IH and its association with depression, and address depression and self-efficacy in CBT and other interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahar Michael
- Social Work Services, Sheba Medical Center , Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Varda Soskolne
- Louis and Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work, Bar-Ilan University , Ramat-Gan, Israel
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24
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Christinet V, Biscontin G. [Not Available]. Rev Med Suisse 2020; 16:1656-1659. [PMID: 32914598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guido Biscontin
- Checkpoint Vaud, Fondation PROFA, Rue du Pont 22, 1003 Lausanne
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25
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Walters SM, Braksmajer A, Coston B, Yoon I, Grov C, Downing MJ, Teran R, Hirshfield S. A Syndemic Model of Exchange Sex Among HIV-Positive Men Who Have Sex With Men. Arch Sex Behav 2020; 49:1965-1978. [PMID: 31965453 PMCID: PMC7321855 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01628-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Exchange sex is a behavior associated with HIV transmission risk among men who have sex with men (MSM). Few studies have examined exchange sex among HIV-positive MSM. We utilize a syndemic framework to account for co-occurring psychosocial problems that suggest the presence of intertwining epidemics (i.e., syndemics), which have not been examined within the context of exchange sex among HIV-positive MSM. In 2015, MSM were recruited via online sexual networking Web site and app advertisements for Sex Positive![+], a video-based online intervention that aimed to improve health outcomes for men living with HIV. Participants completed surveys every three months for a year. Surveys covered demographics, drug use, exchange sex, intimate partner violence (IPV), and past 2-week depressive symptoms. We conducted three logistic regression models to assess syndemic factors associated with exchange sex in the past 3 months. Of the 722 HIV-positive MSM included in the sample, 59 (8%) reported exchange sex in the past 3 months at 12-month follow-up. HIV-positive MSM who had more syndemic factors had greater odds of exchange sex. Exchange sex was associated with being African-American/Black, age 18-29 years, past and present experiences with IPV, stimulant use, polysubstance use, and depressive symptoms. Exchange sex was associated with multiple psychosocial factors, indicating exchange sex may be part of a syndemic involving substance use, depression, HIV, and IPV. Interventions should address the social and behavioral circumstances that perpetuate environments that can foster multiple negative health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan M Walters
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 380 2nd Ave., Suite 306, NY 10010, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Bethany Coston
- Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Irene Yoon
- Research and Advisory, Gartner L2, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christian Grov
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy and the CUNY Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Richard Teran
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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26
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Shaw SA, Mergenova G, El-Bassel N. Religion and HIV Risk Among Male Market Vendors in Kazakhstan. J Relig Health 2020; 59:2019-2031. [PMID: 31605265 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-019-00929-0] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study examines associations between religion and sexual HIV risk among 1342 male migrant and non-migrant market vendors in Kazakhstan. In the multivariate analysis, religious influence was associated with a lower likelihood of having multiple partners. Regular attendance was associated with a lower likelihood of having anal sex with a male partner, but with increased likelihood of having multiple partners. Spending time socially with friends at a mosque or church was associated with lower risk of anal sex with a male partner and lower risk of unprotected sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey A Shaw
- 2175 JFSB, School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
| | - Gaukhar Mergenova
- Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Columbia University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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27
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Li H, Marks KM, Talal AH, van Seggelen WO, Akil B, Radix A, Huprikar S, Branch AD, Wang S, Shaw GM, Fierer DS. Assessing routes of hepatitis C transmission in HIV-infected men who have sex with men using single genome sequencing. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235237. [PMID: 32667919 PMCID: PMC7363067 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemic of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) is in its second decade, but the routes of transmission remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that by pairing single genome sequencing (SGS), to enumerate infecting HCV genomes (viruses), with detailed sexual and drug histories, we could gain insight into the routes of transmission among MSM. We used SGS to analyze blood specimens from eight HIV-infected MSM who had 10 episodes of acute (seronegative) or early HCV infections. Seven of eight men reported condomless receptive anal intercourse (CRAI), six with rectal exposure to semen, and all eight denied rectal trauma or bleeding. Of the 10 HCV infections, eight resulted from transmission of a single virus; one infection resulted from transmission of either one or a few (three or four) closely-related viruses; and one infection resulted from transmission of >10 distinct viruses. The participant infected by >10 viruses reported sharing injection equipment for methamphetamine during sex. Two other participants also injected methamphetamine during sex but they did not share injection equipment and were infected by a single virus. Conclusions: Most HCV infections of HIV-infected MSM without a history of either rectal trauma or bleeding or shared injection equipment were caused by a single virus. Intra-rectal exposure to semen during CRAI is therefore likely sufficient for HCV transmission among MSM. Conversely, rectal trauma or bleeding or shared injection equipment are not necessary for HCV transmission among MSM. These results help clarify routes of HCV transmission among MSM and can therefore help guide the design of much-needed behavioral and other interventions to prevent HCV transmission among MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Li
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kristen M. Marks
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Andrew H. Talal
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Wouter O. van Seggelen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Bisher Akil
- Chelsea Village Medical, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Asa Radix
- Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Shirish Huprikar
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Andrea D. Branch
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Shuyi Wang
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - George M. Shaw
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Daniel S. Fierer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
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28
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Vasylyeva TI, Smyrnov P, Strathdee S, Friedman SR. Challenges posed by COVID-19 to people who inject drugs and lessons from other outbreaks. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25583. [PMID: 32697423 PMCID: PMC7375066 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, considerable effort is going into identifying and protecting those at risk. Criminalization, stigmatization and the psychological, physical, behavioural and economic consequences of substance use make people who inject drugs (PWID) extremely vulnerable to many infectious diseases. While relationships between drug use and blood-borne and sexually transmitted infections are well studied, less attention has been paid to other infectious disease outbreaks among PWID. DISCUSSION COVID-19 is likely to disproportionally affect PWID due to a high prevalence of comorbidities that make the disease more severe, unsanitary and overcrowded living conditions, stigmatization, common incarceration, homelessness and difficulties in adhering to quarantine, social distancing or self-isolation mandates. The COVID-19 pandemic also jeopardizes essential for PWID services, such as needle exchange or substitution therapy programmes, which can be affected both in a short- and a long-term perspective. Importantly, there is substantial evidence of other infectious disease outbreaks in PWID that were associated with factors that enable COVID-19 transmission, such as poor hygiene, overcrowded living conditions and communal ways of using drugs. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 crisis might increase risks of homelessnes, overdoses and unsafe injecting and sexual practices for PWID. In order to address existing inequalities, consultations with PWID advocacy groups are vital when designing inclusive health response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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29
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Satre DD, Sarovar V, Leyden W, Hare CB, Catz SL, Bryant KJ, Williams EC, Hojilla JC, Horberg MA, Silverberg MJ. Changes in Days of Unhealthy Alcohol Use and Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence, HIV RNA Levels, and Condomless Sex: A Secondary Analysis of Clinical Trial Data. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1784-1792. [PMID: 31773444 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02742-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In a sample of people with HIV (PWH) enrolled in an alcohol intervention trial and followed for 12 months, we examined the association of changes in days (i.e., decrease, increase, no change [reference]) of unhealthy drinking (consuming ≥ 4/≥ 5 drinks for women/men) with antiretroviral therapy adherence (≥ 95% adherent), viral suppression (HIV RNA < 75 copies/mL), condomless sex with HIV-negative/unknown status partners, and dual-risk outcome (HIV RNA ≥ 75 copies/mL plus condomless sex). The sample included 566 PWH (96.8% male; 63.1% White; 93.9% HIV RNA < 75 copies/mL) who completed baseline, 6-, and 12-month assessments. Decrease in days of unhealthy drinking was associated with increased likelihood of viral suppression (odds ratio [OR] 3.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06, 13.51, P = .04) versus no change. Increase in days of unhealthy drinking was associated with increased likelihood of condomless sex (OR 3.13; 95% CI 1.60, 6.12, P < .001). Neither increase nor decrease were associated with adherence or dual-risk outcome. On a continuous scale, for each increase by 1 day of unhealthy drinking in the prior month, the odds of being 95% adherent decreased by 6% (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.88, 1.00, P = 0.04).
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek D Satre
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Varada Sarovar
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Wendy Leyden
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Charles B Hare
- Department of Adult and Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sheryl L Catz
- Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Kendall J Bryant
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Emily C Williams
- Health Services Research & Development Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - J Carlo Hojilla
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michael A Horberg
- Mid-Atlantic Permanente Research Institute, Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States, Rockville, MD, USA
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Murphy EC, Segura ER, Lake JE, Huerta L, Perez-Brumer AG, Mayer KH, Reisner SL, Lama JR, Clark JL. Intimate Partner Violence Against Transgender Women: Prevalence and Correlates in Lima, Peru (2016-2018). AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1743-1751. [PMID: 31720954 PMCID: PMC7214207 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02728-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Limited data exists on intimate partner violence (IPV) among transgender women (TW), though global trends suggest IPV is associated with HIV risk in this population. We describe the prevalence of verbal, physical, and/or sexual violence as well as participant- and partner-level correlates of IPV among TW in Lima, Peru. Among 389 respondents, 15.2% reported IPV with one or more of their last three sexual partners: 9.2% verbal, 8.2% physical, and 2.3% sexual violence. Physical and verbal violence were more common with stable partners (aPR 3.46, 95% CI 1.17-10.25, aPR 2.46, 95% CI 1.14-5.28, respectively). Physical violence was associated with condomless receptive anal intercourse (cRAI) (aPR 2.22, 95% CI 1.19-4.13) and partner alcohol use (aPR 4.38, 95% CI 1.56-12.33) while verbal violence correlated with participant inebriation (aPR 4.86, 95% CI 1.63-14.46). Our results link IPV with stable partnerships, alcohol use, and cRAI, suggesting TW in Peru may benefit from multidimensional IPV prevention strategies to foster supportive relationships and reduce HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C Murphy
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eddy R Segura
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | - Jordan E Lake
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Amaya G Perez-Brumer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- Fenway Health and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sari L Reisner
- Fenway Health and Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, The Fenway Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Javier R Lama
- Asociacion Civil Impacta Salud y Educacion, Lima, Peru
| | - Jesse L Clark
- South American Program in HIV Prevention Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, UCLA Geffen School of Medicine, 10833 Leconte Avenue, CHS 37-121, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Ortblad KF, Stalter RM, Bukusi EA, Ngure K, Mujugura A, Celum C, Baeten JM, Heffron R. No Evidence of Sexual Risk Compensation Following PrEP Initiation Among Heterosexual HIV Serodiscordant Couples in Kenya and Uganda. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1365-1375. [PMID: 31696370 PMCID: PMC7156350 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02720-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies among men who have sex with men suggest that sexual behaviors associated with risk of sexually transmitted infections increase following initiation of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. We used longitudinal data from HIV-uninfected participants (n = 1013) enrolled in an open-label study of PrEP delivered to Ugandan and Kenyan heterosexual HIV serodiscordant couples to understand the association between PrEP initiation and HIV risk-related sexual behaviors among these couples. In the month following PrEP initiation, the mean number of monthly sex acts within couples decreased from 7.9 to 6.9 (mean difference: - 1.1; 95% CI - 1.5, - 0.7) and the proportion of couples having condomless sex decreased from 65% to 32% (percentage point change: - 33%; 95% CI - 37%, - 30%); these behaviors then remained relatively constant over 2 years. We found no evidence of sexual risk compensation following PrEP initiation within African serodiscordant couples. However, roughly a third of couples continued to engage in condomless sex during follow up, emphasizing the importance of continued PrEP use to sustain HIV protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina F Ortblad
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA.
| | - Randy M Stalter
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Bukusi
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Centre for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Community Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Andrew Mujugura
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Connie Celum
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Jared M Baeten
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Renee Heffron
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, 908 Jefferson St, 12th floor, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Gawron LM, Gero A, Kushner KL, Turok DK, Sanders JN. Unprotected intercourse in the 2 weeks prior to quick-start initiation of an etonogestrel contraceptive implant with and without use of oral emergency contraception. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 222:S891-S892. [PMID: 31809707 PMCID: PMC7219276 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.11.1281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lori M Gawron
- University of Utah, 30N 1900E, Room 2B-200, Salt Lake City, UT 84132.
| | - Alexandra Gero
- University of Utah, 30N 1900E, Room 2B-200, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | | | - David K Turok
- University of Utah, 30N 1900E, Room 2B-200, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Jessica N Sanders
- University of Utah, 30N 1900E, Room 2B-200, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
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Maxwell S, Gafos M, Moncrieff M, Shahmanesh M, Stirrup O. Pre-exposure prophylaxis use among men who have sex with men who have experienced problematic chemsex. Int J STD AIDS 2020; 31:474-480. [PMID: 32075538 PMCID: PMC7814093 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420906927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) who experience problematic chemsex are at high risk of acquiring HIV due to combined drug use and sexual behaviours. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) could substantially reduce the risk of HIV transmission in this group of men. The aim of this study was to examine the biopsychosocial characteristics associated with PrEP use among HIV-negative MSM who have experienced problematic chemsex. This was a cross-sectional analysis of secondary data collected during client assessments at a specialist alcohol and drug service based within the United Kingdom. We compared the socio-demographics, substance use, sexual behaviours and mental health of MSM who reported ever using PrEP to those who reported never using PrEP. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Mann–Whitney U-test for continuous variables and Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables. Between August 2016 and July 2018, 165 HIV-negative MSM who engaged in chemsex had an assessment completed. Thirty-four per cent (n = 50/145) had ever used PrEP. The median age was 36 years (IQR: 30–42), 92% identified as gay (n = 152/165) and 79% were of white ethnicity (n = 130/164). The use of crystal methamphetamine was associated with higher levels of men ever using PrEP (40% versus 21%) (p= 0.047). Men who had ever used PrEP had a higher median number of sexual partners in the previous three months (20 versus 10) (p= 0.004) and had lower level of condom use in their sex lives (median reported 5% versus 50%) (p= 0.010) in comparison to men who had never used PrEP. It is encouraging that men having higher-risk sex had been accessing PrEP. However, further research is required to explore PrEP uptake, retention and adherence in this high-risk group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Maxwell
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mitzy Gafos
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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34
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Soldati L, Bolmont M. [Sexuality in subjects who suffer from attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder]. Rev Med Suisse 2020; 16:543-545. [PMID: 32186800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Although there is a substantial literature concerning the sexuality of people suffering from a psychiatric disorder, such as depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders or personality disorders, few studies have investigated the sexuality of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients. The purpose of this article is therefore to show current knowledge about sexuality in people suffering from ADHD. The latter seem to have less sexual satisfaction, more sexual desire, more sexual dysfunction and more risky sexual behavior than the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Soldati
- Unité de médecine sexuelle et sexologie, Service des spécialités psychiatriques, Département de santé mentale et de psychiatrie, HUG, 1201 Genève
| | - Mylène Bolmont
- Collaboratrice scientifique, Faculté de médecine, Université de Genève, Boulevard de la Cluse, 30, 1205 Genève
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Ngoc Do H, Ngoc Nguyen D, Quynh Thi Nguyen H, Tuan Nguyen A, Duy Nguyen H, Phuong Bui T, Bich Thi Vu T, Thanh Le K, Tuan Nguyen D, Tat Nguyen C, Gia Vu L, Thu Vu G, Xuan Tran B, A. Latkin C, C. M. Ho R, S. H. Ho C. Patterns of Risky Sexual Behaviors and Associated Factors among Youths and Adolescents in Vietnam. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E1903. [PMID: 32183402 PMCID: PMC7143552 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061903] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Youths and adolescents are vulnerable to HIV/STIs from unprotected sex. Promotion of young population's awareness about risky sexual behaviors is essential to develop contextualized interventions. A cross-sectional study was conducted in five Vietnamese provinces to document current attitudes and practices regarding sexual behaviors among youths. The information on sociodemographic characteristics, substance use, and sexual behaviors was collected via self-reported questionnaires. The factors associated with risky sexual behaviors were identified by the multivariate logistic regression. Among the 1200 participants, 73.5% reported having sex in their lifetime, and 48.1% used condoms at their latest sexual intercourse. Participants in urban areas were more likely not to intend to use condoms and had a higher unintended pregnancy rate than in rural areas. Older age was positively associated with not wanting to use and not using condoms. Substance-using participants were more likely to not use condoms. The participants taking alcohol or other stimulants before sex had a higher likelihood of unintended pregnancy. Respondents' attitudes and practices regarding sexual behaviors were associated with gender and employment. This study indicated that young population's awareness in Vietnam is high, however, risky sexual behaviors also remain common. Sex-related educational programs about the consequences of substance use, multiple sex partners, and unprotected sex should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Ngoc Do
- Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Diep Ngoc Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam;
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Hoa Quynh Thi Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (H.Q.T.N.); (A.T.N.)
| | - Anh Tuan Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth Culture and Lifestyle, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (H.Q.T.N.); (A.T.N.)
| | - Hiep Duy Nguyen
- Department of Research on Children’s issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (H.D.N.); (T.P.B.)
| | - Thanh Phuong Bui
- Department of Research on Children’s issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (H.D.N.); (T.P.B.)
| | - Thao Bich Thi Vu
- Department of Research on Youth’s Organisations and Youth Campaign, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (T.B.T.V.); (K.T.L.)
| | - Khiet Thanh Le
- Department of Research on Youth’s Organisations and Youth Campaign, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam; (T.B.T.V.); (K.T.L.)
| | - Dung Tuan Nguyen
- Department of Research on Youth and Legal issues, Youth Research Institute, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
| | - Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam;
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang 550000, Vietnam
| | - Linh Gia Vu
- Center of Excellence in Evidence-based Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (L.G.V.); (G.T.V.)
| | - Giang Thu Vu
- Center of Excellence in Evidence-based Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam; (L.G.V.); (G.T.V.)
| | - Bach Xuan Tran
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam;
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
| | - Roger C. M. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore;
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
- Center of Excellence in Behavioral Medicine, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Cyrus S. H. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore 119074, Singapore;
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Sweeney MM, Berry MS, Johnson PS, Herrmann ES, Meredith SE, Johnson MW. Demographic and sexual risk predictors of delay discounting of condom-protected sex. Psychol Health 2020; 35:366-386. [PMID: 31311321 PMCID: PMC6962567 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2019.1631306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Sexual delay discounting describes the decreased likelihood of condom-protected sex if a condom is not immediately available, which can be quantitatively summarised using the Sexual Delay Discounting Task (SDDT). The present studies determined the extent to which condom use likelihood as assessed by the SDDT is associated with self-reported sexual risk behaviours and demographics in two online samples of adults. Design: Study 1 (n = 767) assessed demographics, sexual risk behaviour, and delay discounting, and examined relations between these variables using correlation and regression. Study 2 (n = 267) examined whether real-world instances of unprotected sex because a condom was not immediately available predicted greater sexual discounting. Main outcome measures: Sexual delay discounting, condom use. Results: Both studies observed significant positive relations between sexual delay discounting and self-reported sexual risk behaviours, and found that males tended to show greater sexual discounting. In Study 2, 46% of the sample self-reported having unprotected sex because a condom was not immediately available, and these individuals showed significantly greater sexual delay discounting. Conclusion: These results extend prior findings by demonstrating that delay is a critical variable underlying real-life sexual risk behaviour among non-clinical samples. The SDDT is an ecologically valid measure of these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M. Sweeney
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Meredith S. Berry
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Patrick S. Johnson
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Evan S. Herrmann
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Steven E. Meredith
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Matthew W. Johnson
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
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CICCARESE G, DRAGO F, HERZUM A, REBORA A, COGORNO L, ZANGRILLO F, PARODI A. Knowledge of sexually transmitted infections and risky behaviors among undergraduate students in Tirana, Albania: comparison with Italian students. J Prev Med Hyg 2020; 61:E3-E5. [PMID: 32490261 PMCID: PMC7225650 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2020.61.1.1413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. CICCARESE
- Dermatologic Clinic, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence: Giulia Ciccarese, Dermatologic Clinic, Policlinico San Martino, largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy. Phone: +39 010 5555753 - E-mail:
| | - F. DRAGO
- Dermatologic Clinic, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - A. HERZUM
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - A. REBORA
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - L. COGORNO
- Department of Experimental Medicine-Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology Section, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - F. ZANGRILLO
- Section of Hygiene Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - A. PARODI
- Section of Dermatology, Department of Health Science, University of Genoa, Italy
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Diaz A, Shankar V, Nucci-Sack A, Linares LO, Salandy A, Strickler HD, Burk RD, Schlecht NF. Effect of child abuse and neglect on risk behaviors in inner-city minority female adolescents and young adults. Child Abuse Negl 2020; 101:104347. [PMID: 31884248 PMCID: PMC7059863 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over six million children each year are referred to child protective services for child abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) and neglect (physical and emotional). OBJECTIVE While the relationship between child sexual abuse and sexually transmitted infections has been documented, there has been little research regarding the effects of other forms of maltreatment. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING 882 inner-city females aged 12-20 years of age seen at a large adolescent and young adult (AYA) health center in New York City between 2012-2017. METHODS History of maltreatment was assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Associations with depressive symptoms, antisocial behavior, peer deviancy, drug/alcohol use, and risky sexual behaviors were assessed. RESULTS History of maltreatment was common in our cohort of inner-city AYA females, with 59.6 % reporting any type of maltreatment, including sexual abuse (17.5 %), physical abuse (19.5 %) or neglect (26.2 %), and emotional abuse (30.7 %) or neglect (40.4 %). We observed significant associations between all forms of maltreatment and risk of depression, drug/alcohol use, antisocial behaviors, peer deviancy, and risky sexual risk behaviors (including having a higher number of sexual partners, having a sexual partner 5+ years older, and anal sex). Physical and emotional abuse were associated with having unprotected sex while under the influence of drugs/alcohol. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Reporting a history of maltreatment was associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in risky sexual and antisocial behaviors, as well as depression in inner-city female youth. These data highlight the broad, lingering repercussions of all types of child maltreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Diaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY, USA.
| | - Viswanathan Shankar
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Anne Nucci-Sack
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY, USA
| | - Lourdes Oriana Linares
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY, USA
| | - Anthony Salandy
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY, USA
| | - Howard D Strickler
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Robert D Burk
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Departments of Pediatrics, Microbiology & Immunology, and Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Nicolas F Schlecht
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Cancer Prevention & Control, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
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Dias S, Gama A, Loos J, Roxo L, Simões D, Nöstlinger C. The role of mobility in sexual risk behaviour and HIV acquisition among sub-Saharan African migrants residing in two European cities. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228584. [PMID: 32023309 PMCID: PMC7001961 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migrants from high endemic countries accounted for 18% of newly diagnosed HIV infections in Europe in 2017. Knowledge on the link between HIV risk and post-migration travels and their impact on HIV acquisition is scarce, but critical to inform prevention. This study aims to explore risky sexual behaviour and HIV-acquisition among sub-Saharan African migrants, and to assess post-migration mobility as a determinant of sexual risk behaviour. METHODS Data from two cross-sectional bio-behavioural surveys to assess HIV-prevalence conducted in Lisbon and Antwerp were analysed to explore migration-related characteristics, travel patterns, and sexual risk taking in the host country and abroad. Bi- and multivariate associations were estimated through adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals; multivariable logistic regression determined factors associated with condomless sexual intercourse. RESULTS Among N = 1508 participants above 18 years (58% males), 68% travelled post-migration (49.2% reported intercourse abroad). The overall proportion of condomless sex at last sexual intercourse was high (68.1%). The odds of condomless sex in the host country was five times higher when the last sexual intercourse abroad was also condomless [OR:5.32; 95%CI:2.98-9.25]. About half of the travellers reported concurrency, i.e. a regular partner in the host country while having other sexual partners abroad. Almost three percent of the participants reported being HIV+, but 5% had a reactive HIV test-result, with similar proportions among travellers and non-travellers. Also, among the n = 75 participants with reactive HIV test-results, condomless sex occurred (n = 40) and was associated with mobility. CONCLUSIONS Sub-Saharan African migrants are mobile and engage in sexual risk behaviours in the countries of residence and while travelling, increasing risk of post-migration HIV-acquisition. A transnational perspective on HIV prevention and sexual health promotion is needed for effectively reducing migrants' HIV risk related to their mobility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia Dias
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre & Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Lisboa, Portugal
- * E-mail:
| | - Ana Gama
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre & Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jasna Loos
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Luis Roxo
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre & Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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40
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Chen X, Yan H, Cao Y, Li S, Yang N, Li X. Epidemiological investigation on the cervical health of lesbians in Beijing, China. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060519889754. [PMID: 32054350 PMCID: PMC7105738 DOI: 10.1177/0300060519889754] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate human papillomavirus (HPV) infection status and influencing factors among lesbians. Methods In August to October 2018, 300 lesbians were recruited in Beijing using snowball sampling. Sociodemographic characteristics, behavioural indices and HPV status were measured. Colposcopy was performed on participants with HPV genotypes 16 and 18 and on participants with other high-risk HPV subtypes and positive ThinPrep (TCT) results. Results The overall HPV-positive rate was 25%. High number of sexual partners, smoking, drinking, not using condoms and using sex toys during intercourse were identified as HPV infection risk factors. Of the HPV subtypes detected, 84% were high-risk HPV subtypes. The colposcopy results showed that 20 participants (80%) with HPV 16 and HPV 18 had cervical intraepithelial neoplasia I (CIN I) or above lesions. The colposcopy results also showed that 16 participants (64%) infected with other high-risk types of HPV virus and who had positive TCT results had CIN I or above lesions. Conclusions The cervical health of lesbians should not be neglected, and appropriate health education should be improved for this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfan Chen
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hong Yan
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yingnan Cao
- Beijing Jishuitan Hospital/4th Medical College of Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyue Li
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ningxi Yang
- College of Humanities and Social Science, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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41
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Prescott MR, Santos GM, Arayasirikul S, Wilson E. Partnership-level correlates of sexual risk taking within the sexual partnerships of young transwomen in San Francisco, California. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 96:58-61. [PMID: 30683755 PMCID: PMC10921928 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2018-053609] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about the sexual networks of young transwomen, leaving a major gap in what we know about transmission dynamics and the elevated rates of HIV in this population. The objective of this study was to understand partnership-level factors associated with condomless anal sex among young transwomen. METHODS A secondary data analysis of the sexual partnerships of young transwomen was conducted using baseline data from the SHINE study. Generalised estimating equation logistic regressions were used to assess for partnership-level associations between partnership type, age, injection drug use and racial concordance, HIV seroconcordance, sexual role and condomless receptive (CRAI) and insertive anal intercourse (CIAI). RESULTS Our analysis included 187 young transwomen that reported a total of 464 sexual partnerships where they had at least one episode of anal sex in the past 6 months. We found casual (n=232 or 50%) and commercial partnerships (n=106 or 22.8%) to be significantly associated with a lower odds of CIAI (OR=0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.86 and OR=0.39, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.82) and CRAI (OR=0.30, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.47 and OR=0.35, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.62) compared with main partnerships (n=126 or 27.2%). Additionally, HIV-positive seroconcordant (n=25 or 5.4%, OR=4.05, 95% CI 1.44 to 11.40) and injection-drug using partnerships (n=25 or 5.4%, OR=3.66, 95% CI 1.34 to 9.95) were found to be significantly associated with an increased odds of CIAI among participants compared with HIV-negative seroconcordant (n=330 or 71.1%) and non-using partnerships (n=338 or 72.8%), respectively. CONCLUSION Young transwomen, like other populations, engage in condomless sex more often with main than casual and commercial partners, suggesting a need for interventions that address sexual practices with steady main partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximo Robert Prescott
- Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
- School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Glenn-Milo Santos
- Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sean Arayasirikul
- Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Erin Wilson
- Center for Public Health Research, San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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42
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Knowles A, Rinehart JK, Steinberg L, Frick PJ, Cauffman E. Risky Sexual Behavior among Arrested Adolescent Males: The Role of Future Expectations and Impulse Control. J Res Adolesc 2020; 30 Suppl 2:562-579. [PMID: 30983069 DOI: 10.1111/jora.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The current study evaluates two predictors of adolescent sexual risk-taking, specifically whether impulse control or future expectations predict condom use and casual sex. We examine whether risky sex occurs among youth who tend to act without thinking about the future, or instead, youth who report low future expectations. We consider these relations longitudinally among a sample of sexually active justice-involved adolescent males (N = 752, M age = 15.58) a group at heightened risk for sexual risk-taking. We found that optimistic expectations for the future predict a higher likelihood of engaging in consistent condom use, whereas high impulse control is related to a lower likelihood of casual sex. Implications for intervention and research on positive sexual health are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paul J Frick
- Louisiana State University System
- Australian Catholic University
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43
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Faini D, Hanson C, Baisley K, Kapiga S, Hayes R. Sexual behaviour, changes in sexual behaviour and associated factors among women at high risk of HIV participating in feasibility studies for prevention trials in Tanzania. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231766. [PMID: 32298383 PMCID: PMC7162511 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Risk reduction towards safer behaviour is promoted after enrolment in HIV prevention trials. We evaluated sexual behaviour, changes in sexual behaviour and factors associated with risky behaviour after one-year of follow-up among women enrolled in HIV prevention trials in Northern Tanzania. METHODS Self-reported information from 1378 HIV-negative women aged 18-44 enrolled in microbicide and vaccine feasibility studies between 2008-2010,was used to assess changes in behaviour during a 12-month follow-up period. Logistic regression with random intercepts was used to estimate odds ratios for trends in each behaviour over time. A behavioural risk score was derived from coefficients of three behavioural variables in a Poisson regression model for HIV incidence and thereafter, dichotomized to risky vs less-risky behaviour. Logistic regression was then used to identify factors associated with risky behaviour at 12 months. RESULTS At baseline, 22% reported multiple partners, 28% were involved in transactional sex and only 22% consistently used condoms with non-regular partners. The proportion of women reporting multiple partners, transactional sex and high-risk sex practices reduced at each 3-monthly visit (33%, 43% and 47% reduction in odds per visit respectively, p for linear trend <0.001 for all), however, there was no evidence of a change in the proportion of women consistently using condoms with non-regular partners (p = 0.22). Having riskier behaviours at baseline, being younger than 16 years at sexual debut, having multiple partners, selling sex and excessive alcohol intake at baseline were strongly associated with increased odds of risky sexual behaviour after 12 months (p<0.005 for all). CONCLUSION An overall reduction in risky behaviours over time was observed in HIV prevention cohorts. Risk reduction counselling was associated with decreased risk behaviour but was insufficient to change behaviours of all those at highest risk. Biological HIV prevention interventions such as PrEP for individuals at highest risk, should complement risk reduction counselling so as to minimize HIV acquisition risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Faini
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Department of Global Public Health, Global Health—Health Systems and Policy Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Claudia Hanson
- Department of Global Public Health, Global Health—Health Systems and Policy Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kathy Baisley
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Richard Hayes
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Valente PK, Mimiaga MJ, Mayer KH, Safren SA, Biello KB. Social Capital Moderates the Relationship Between Stigma and Sexual Risk Among Male Sex Workers in the US Northeast. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:29-38. [PMID: 31587116 PMCID: PMC7276145 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02692-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Stigma contributes to elevated HIV incidence among male sex workers (MSW). Social capital (i.e., resources accessed through one's social relationships) may act as a buffer between stigma and sexual risk behaviors and HIV acquisition. Using negative binomial regression, we examined the association between both sex work-related stigma and social capital with respect to number of condomless sex acts among 98 MSW living in the US Northeast. In models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, sex work-related stigma was associated with number of condomless sex acts with any non-paying partner (i.e., male and female) (aIRR = 1.25, p < 0.001) and male non-paying partners (aIRR = 1.27, p = 0.09) among individuals with low social capital, not among those with high social capital. Sex work-related stigma was not associated with number of condomless anal sex acts with male paying clients at any level of social capital. Future HIV prevention interventions should consider promoting social capital among MSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo K Valente
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Matthew J Mimiaga
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Box G-S121-8, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steve A Safren
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Katie B Biello
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA.
- Center for Health Equity Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Box G-S121-8, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
Toward the goal of advancing understanding of rates of HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) populations, this article provides preliminary data on the use of the experience sampling method (ESM) in a sample of 165 MSM. Participants completed 6 weeks of experience sampling in two 3-week measurement bursts with a 3-week rest interval. Criterion validity of the random and retrospective daily assessments was supported by expected within-person correlations between sexual risk behavior and sexual arousal. Participants reported some sexual activity with a male partner on 18.62% of the days, condomless anal sex (CAS) on 6.52% of days, and not using condoms on 66.56% of days they had anal sex. Over half of the variability in CAS was at the within-person level, which suggests the significance of time varying contextual factors. Finally, CAS reports were relatively stable across the study, suggesting a lack of reactivity to the self-monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tibor P Palfai
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University
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46
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Nosrat S, Velez BL, Ciccolo JT. Psychological Distress and Risky Sexual Behavior in a Sample of Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2019; 30:691-698. [PMID: 31633631 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Luehring-Jones P, Palfai TP, Tahaney KD, Maisto SA, Simons J. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Use is Associated With Health Risk Behaviors Among Moderate- and Heavy-Drinking MSM. AIDS Educ Prev 2019; 31:452-462. [PMID: 31550196 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2019.31.5.452] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Among men who have sex with men (MSM), acute alcohol consumption is associated with higher rates of condomless anal intercourse, which is linked with a greater likelihood of exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. While pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection has become more widespread in this population in recent years, so too have concerns that PrEP uptake may be associated with health risk behaviors. This study investigated differences in sexual behaviors and drug use habits between PrEP users and nonusers in a sample of moderate- and heavy-drinking MSM. Results indicated that PrEP use was associated with riskier sexual practices, weaker self-regulatory cognitions related to condom use, and more frequent illicit drug use. These findings suggest that moderate-and heavy-drinking MSM who use PrEP may comprise a unique risk group that could benefit from targeted counseling or other interventions to reduce their risk of negative health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Luehring-Jones
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tibor P Palfai
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kelli D Tahaney
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stephen A Maisto
- Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York
| | - Jeffrey Simons
- Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota
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48
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Choi EPH, Wong JYH, Fong DYT. Disparities Between HIV Testing Levels and the Self-Reported HIV-Negative Status of Sexually Active College Students. J Sex Res 2019; 56:1023-1030. [PMID: 30526085 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2018.1541961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The methodological issues of using self-reported human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing history to determine HIV infection status are understudied. This study aimed to assess the disparities between HIV testing history and self-reported HIV status, with a specific objective of estimating the prevalence of self-reported HIV-negative status in sexually active students who had never had an HIV test (inaccurate self-disclosure). Participants were recruited from four Hong Kong universities; 255 students were included in the analysis, with 16.1% of participants being men who have sex with men (MSM). Overall, 81.6% of participants reported they never had been tested for HIV, with inaccurate self-disclosure by 65.9% of participants. Among participants who used condoms inconsistently, only 20.2% had had HIV tests, with inaccurate self-disclosure by 66.7% of subjects. Among MSM students, only 36.6% had had HIV tests, with inaccurate self-disclosure by 61.0% of participants. Among MSM students who used condoms inconsistently, only 35.1% had had HIV tests, with inaccurate self-disclosure by 62.2% of participants. The findings raise concerns about the use of self-reported HIV status in clinical practice and research. The low prevalence of HIV testing found suggests that interventions to promote HIV testing should be continued.
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49
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Xie L, Wu Y, Meng S, Hou J, Fu R, Zheng H, He N, Wang M, Meyers K. Risk Behavior Not Associated with Self-Perception of PrEP Candidacy: Implications for Designing PrEP Services. AIDS Behav 2019; 23:2784-2794. [PMID: 31280397 PMCID: PMC7232689 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02587-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In a study of sexually-active HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) in China, we compared behavioral indication for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) based on risk criteria to self-perception of PrEP candidacy (SPC) and explored factors associated with SPC. Of 708 MSM surveyed, 323 (45.6%) were behaviorally-indicated for PrEP, among whom 42.1% self-perceived as appropriate PrEP candidates. In a multivariable model we found no association between sexual behavior nor HIV risk perception and SPC but found that higher perceived benefits of PrEP, increased frequency of HIV testing, and low condom use self-efficacy were positively-associated with SPC. In a sub-analysis restricted to MSM behaviorally-indicated for PrEP, relationship-factors were also significant. Our findings suggest that PrEP implementers should look beyond risk criteria to consider shared decision-making tools that support individuals to assess whether they are appropriate PrEP candidates based on their existing HIV prevention strategies, sexual health goals, and relationship dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Xie
- Institute of HIV/AIDS, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yumeng Wu
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, The Rockefeller University, 455 First Avenue, Floor 7, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Siyan Meng
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Hou
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Beijing You'an Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Fu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | | | - Na He
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Wang
- Institute of HIV/AIDS, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kathrine Meyers
- Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, The Rockefeller University, 455 First Avenue, Floor 7, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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Barnhart DA, Harling G, Muya A, Ortblad KF, Mashasi I, Dambach P, Ulenga N, Mboggo E, Oldenburg CE, Bärnighausen TW, Spiegelman D. Structural, interpersonal, psychosocial, and behavioral risk factors for HIV acquisition among female bar workers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. AIDS Care 2019; 31:1096-1105. [PMID: 31079476 PMCID: PMC6657807 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1612018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, female bar workers (FBWs) often serve as informal sex workers. Little is known about the prevalence of HIV and HIV-related risk factors among FBWs in Dar es Salaam (DSM), Tanzania. Using an adapted Structural HIV Determinants Framework, we identified structural, interpersonal, psychosocial, and behavioral risk factors for HIV acquisition. We compared the prevalence of HIV and HIV-related risk factors among a random sample of 66 FBWs from DSM to an age-standardized, representative sample of female DSM-residents from the 2016 Demographic and Health and 2011-2012 AIDS Indicator Surveys. Compared to other women in DSM, FBWs had elevated prevalence of all four groups of risk factors. Key risk factors included gender and economic inequalities (structural); sexual violence and challenges negotiating condom use (interpersonal); depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and low social support (psychosocial); and history of unprotected sex, multiple sex partners, and high alcohol consumption (behavioral). HIV prevalence did not differ between FBWs (7.1%, 95% CI 3.7-13.3%) and survey respondents (7.7%, 95% CI: 5.3-11.1%), perhaps due to FBWs' higher - though sub-optimal - engagement with HIV prevention strategies. Elevated exposure to HIV-related risk factors but low HIV prevalence suggests economic, psychosocial, and biomedical interventions may prevent HIV among FBWs in DSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dale A Barnhart
- a Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , USA
| | - Guy Harling
- a Department of Epidemiology , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , USA
- b Institute for Global Health , University College London , London , UK
- c Africa Health Research Institute , KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa
| | - Aisa Muya
- d Amref Health Africa , Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
- e Management and Development for Health , Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
| | - Katrina F Ortblad
- f Department of Global Health , University of Washington , Seattle , USA
| | - Irene Mashasi
- e Management and Development for Health , Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
| | - Peter Dambach
- g Institute of Public Health , University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg , Germany
| | - Nzovu Ulenga
- e Management and Development for Health , Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
| | - Eric Mboggo
- e Management and Development for Health , Dar es Salaam , Tanzania
| | - Catherine E Oldenburg
- h Francis I. Proctor Foundation , University of California , San Francisco , USA
- i Department of Ophthalmology , University of California , San Francisco , USA
- j Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics , University of California , San Francisco , USA
| | - Till W Bärnighausen
- c Africa Health Research Institute , KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa
- g Institute of Public Health , University of Heidelberg , Heidelberg , Germany
- k Department of Global Health and Population , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , USA
| | - Donna Spiegelman
- l Departments of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Nutrition, and Global Health and Population , Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health , Boston , USA
- m Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science , Yale School of Public Health , New Haven , USA
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