In the fight against HIV/AIDS: the arduous implementation of government-funded pre-exposure prophylaxis programme in Taiwan.

INTRODUCTION: The government-funded pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme was targeted to those aged under 30 years or serodiscordant couples and implemented in September 2018-October 2020 in Taiwan. The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the programme and the relationship between sexually transmitted disease (STD) and HIV seroconversion. METHODS: This study was a retrospective cohort analysis with questionnaires designed for participants who joined the aforementioned programme in the PrEP-designated hospitals. The questionnaires included sociodemographic factors, sexual risk behaviours, number and types of sexual partners, and usage of narcotics filled in at the beginning of the programme and every 3 months. The McNemar test was used for the paired questionnaire analysis. The HIV seroconversion status among STD-notified patients nationwide was confirmed by using the data linkage method, followed up until October 2021 with stratification of PrEP programme participation or not. RESULTS: The programme recruited 2155 people. 11 participants (0.5%) had seroconversion within the programme, while 26 (1.2%) had seroconversion after withdrawing from the programme. Overall, 1892 subjects with repeated questionnaires were included in the analysis for behaviour changes with median follow-up of 289 days. After joining the programme, 94.7% of them claimed that they had sexual behaviours: the rate of those who had condomless sex rose to 5.5% (p<0.001) and the rate of those who used narcotics decreased to 2% (p<0.001), compared with their response in the pre-questionnaire. Notably, the frequency of non-use of narcotics in recent 3 months increased from 16.9% to 38.4% in the pre-questionnaire and post-questionnaire responses, among the 177 who had claimed narcotics usage in recent 12 months (p=0.003). More HIV seroconversion was found among patients with STD who did not join the programme than those who joined the programme (8.7% vs 4.9%, p=0.031). CONCLUSIONS: The government-funded programme showed HIV case reduction and positive changes in health behaviours except for condomless sex which had increased prevalence. The reduction of HIV cases was also observed among people with STD. More resources should be allocated to the PrEP programme.

Factors associated with adherence to post-treatment follow-up among a cohort of women with acetic acid/Lugol's iodine positive lesions of the cervix in Cameroon: A retrospective cohort study.

Background: Women treated for cervical precancerous lesions have up to a 30 % increased risk of developing cervical cancer compared to women in the general population. The aim of this study was to identify predictors for adherence to follow-up among women treated for precancerous lesions of the cervix in Cameroon. Materials and Methods: The study design was a retrospective cohort analysis of a five-year follow-up for women in Cameroon who were initially treated for cervical precancer lesions in 2013. Logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with adherence to post-treatment follow-up. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Of the 344 women treated in 2013, 154 (44.77 %) never returned for a single post-treatment follow-up in five years. Marital status was the only variable statistically significantly associated with 5-year post-treatment follow-up adherence. women who had ever been married were 0.36 times (0.14 0.93)); p = 0. 0.035] less likely to adhere to post-treatment follow-up compared to women who have never been married. Although age was not statistically significant, women in the age group 30-49 years had some significance and they were 60 % [aOR, 95 %CI: 0.40 (0.18 0.89); p = 0.024] less likely to adhere to post-treatment follow-up when compared to women who were<30 years. Conclusion: Only about half of the women treated for cervical precancer in this cohort returned for post-treatment follow-up. Conducting needs assessments among these populations that are less likely to adhere to follow-up will allow us to implement and test strategies to improve adherence to follow-up.

Cotidiano de pessoas que vivem com VIH em Bissau, Guiné-Bissau: perspectivas, desafios e vulnerabilidades / Vida diaria de las personas que viven con VIH en Bissau, Guinea-Bissau: perspectivas, desafíos y vulnerabilidades / The daily life of people living with HIV in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau: perspectives, challenges and vulnerabilities

RESUMO Objetivo compreender as perspectivas e desafios no cotidiano de pessoas após a descoberta do viver com VIH em Bissau, Guiné-Bissau, tendo em vista diferentes contextos de vulnerabilidade. Método estudo exploratório-descritivo, que utilizou entrevista semiestruturada com 16 pessoas vivendo com VIH, acompanhadas em um hospital de Bissau. Empregou-se técnica de análise de conteúdo temática. Os relatos dos participantes foram analisados a partir de duas categorias empíricas: A descoberta, os impactos e os desafios de viver com VIH; e Experiência com o antirretroviral: recomeço e perspectivas. Resultados sinalizaram que os desafios iniciam com a revelação do diagnóstico que, geralmente, desperta uma diversidade de sentimentos e comportamentos. O estigma e a discriminação estimulam a adoção do sigilo sobre o status sorológico, resultando na fragilidade de suporte emocional no enfrentamento à soropositividade. A terapia antirretroviral foi vislumbrada como esperança para o enfrentamento da doença. A vulnerabilidade social foi a dimensão que mais se destacou, e violações dos direitos humanos foram constatadas. Conclusão e implicações para a prática o estudo permite compreender as perspectivas, desafios e vulnerabilidades de pessoas que vivem com VIH. O viver com VIH merece atenção especial por parte dos profissionais de saúde que atuam no cuidado dessas pessoas, destacando-se como contribuição a relevância de um cuidado de saúde integral, em que a ética e a subjetividade estejam presentes.

RESUMEN Objetivo este estudio cualitativo tuvo como objetivo comprender perspectivas y desafíos en la vida cotidiana de las personas que viven con VIH en Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, considerando diferentes contextos de vulnerabilidad. Método estudio exploratorio-descriptivo, que utilizó una entrevista semiestructurada con 16 personas que viven con el VIH, seguido en un hospital de Bissau. Se utilizó la técnica de análisis de contenido temático. Los informes de los participantes se analizaron a partir de dos categorías empíricas: El descubrimiento, los impactos y los desafíos de vivir con el VIH; y La experiencia antirretroviral: un nuevo comienzo y perspectivas. Resultados los resultados indicaron que los desafíos comienzan con la divulgación del diagnóstico, que generalmente suscita una diversidad de sentimientos y conductas. El estigma y la discriminación fomentan la adopción del secreto sobre el estado serológico, lo que resulta en un apoyo emocional débil para hacer frente a la seropositividad. La terapia antirretroviral es una esperanza para hacer frente a la enfermedad. La vulnerabilidad social fue la dimensión que más se destacó y se encontraron violaciones a sus derechos humanos. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica el estudio permite comprender las perspectivas, los desafíos y las vulnerabilidades de las personas que viven con el VIH. Vivir con VIH merece especial atención por parte de los profesionales de la salud que actúan en el cuidado de estas personas, destacando como aporte la relevancia de la atención integral en salud, en la que la ética y la subjetividad están presentes.

ABSTRACT Objective to understand perspectives and challenges in the daily lives of people after the discovery of living with HIV in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, considering different contexts of vulnerability. Method an exploratory-descriptive study conducted through semi-structured interviews with sixteen people living with HIV attending a hospital in the city of Bissau. We used the thematic content analysis technique. Participants' reports were analyzed following two empirical categories: Discovery, impacts and challenges of living with HIV; and Experience with antiretroviral therapy: new beginning and perspectives. Results the results indicate that the challenges start with the disclosure of diagnosis, which arouses a diversity of feelings and behaviors. Stigma and discrimination encourage the adoption of confidentiality about serological status, which increases the fragility of emotional support in coping with seropositivity. Antiretroviral therapy was seen as a hope for coping with the disease. Social vulnerability was the dimension that stood out the most, and human rights violations involving people living with HIV were verified. Conclusion and implications for practice the study makes it possible to understand the perspectives, challenges and vulnerabilities of people living with HIV. Living with HIV deserves special attention from health professionals who work in the care of these people, highlighting as a contribution the relevance of comprehensive health care, in which ethics and subjectivity are present.

Detection of sexually transmitted infections among transvestites and transsexual women in prison in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Testagem rápida de infecções sexualmente transmissíveis entre travestis e mulheres transexuais em situação de prisão na Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the seropositivity rate of rapid tests for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B and C among transvestites and transgender women (transfeminine persons) inmates in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro, analyzing the results based on sociodemographic, prison profile and access to health technologies to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods: Cross-sectional census-type study carried out with transfeminine in eleven male prisons in Rio de Janeiro, between the months of April and June 2021. Results: The detection rates found were 34.4% for HIV, and 48.9% for syphilis, and 0.8% for type B and C hepatitis. Seropositivity for more than one infection was verified in 25.4% of participants, and HIV/syphilis was the most prevalent. An increase in the level of education (p=0.037) and having a steady partner in prison (p=0.041) were considered protective factors for STIs in this population. Difficulties were identified in accessing STI prevention technologies, such as male condoms, lubricating gel, rapid tests, and prophylactic antiretroviral therapies for HIV. Conclusion: HIV and syphilis seropositivity rates were high, but within the profile found in this population in other studies inside or outside prisons. The data found indicates the need to incorporate effective strategies for access to health technologies for the prevention of STIs. The scarcity of scientific publications containing epidemiological data on STIs in the transfeminine prison population limited deeper comparisons of the results obtained in this study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a taxa de soropositividade dos testes rápidos para HIV, sífilis e hepatite B e C entre travestis e mulheres transexuais (transfemininas) privadas de liberdade na Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro, analisando os resultados diante do perfil sociodemográfico, prisional e acesso às tecnologias de saúde para prevenir infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST). Métodos: Estudo transversal do tipo censitário realizado com transfemininas em 11 prisões do Rio de Janeiro, entre os meses de abril e junho de 2021. Resultados: As taxas de soropositividade encontradas foram de 34,4% para o HIV, 48,9% para sífilis e 0,8% para as hepatites do tipo B e C. A soropositividade para mais de uma infecção foi verificada em 25,4% das participantes, e HIV/sífilis foi a mais prevalente. O aumento no nível de escolarização (p=0,037), e possuir parceiro fixo na prisão (p=0,041) foram considerados fatores de proteção para as IST nessa população. Foram identificadas dificuldades no acesso às tecnologias de prevenção contra IST, como preservativo masculino, gel lubrificante, testes rápidos e terapias antirretrovirais profiláticas para o HIV. Conclusão: As taxas de soropositividade para o HIV e sífilis foram elevadas, mas no perfil encontrado nessa população em outros estudos dentro e fora das prisões. Os dados encontrados indicam a necessidade de incorporar estratégias efetivas para o acesso às tecnologias em saúde para a prevenção das IST. A escassez de publicações científicas contendo dados epidemiológicos sobre IST na população transfeminina em situação de prisão limitou a realização de comparações mais profundas dos resultados obtidos neste estudo.

Condições de vida de pessoas vivendo com HIV em um município do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Life conditions of people living with HIV in a city of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Condiciones de vida de las personas que viven con el VIH en un municipio del estado de Río de Janeiro, Brasil

Objetivo: discorrer sobre as condições de vida das pessoas vivendo com HIV em um município do estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Método: estudo do tipo transversal, descritivo, de natureza qualitativa. A coleta de dados foi através de entrevistas, sendo os achados submetidos à técnica de análise de conteúdo. A amostra foi composta por pessoas vivendo com HIV que eram abordados no momento que compareciam ao serviço de assistência especializada, sendo definida uma amostra de 20 participantes por técnica de saturação. Resultado: emergiram categorias com base nos temas abordados na entrevista relacionados à qualidade de vida (condição de alimentação, atividade física, lazer, religião e satisfação com a vida sexual) e à experiência de viver com HIV. Conclusão: as pessoas vivendo com HIV, em tratamento antirretroviral, podem usufruir de boas condições de vida tendo como principal fator impeditivo o medo de vivenciar situações de estigma e discriminação.

Objectives: investigate the implications for the life conditions of people living with HIV in a city of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Method: cross-sectional, descriptive, and qualitative study. Data collection was conducted through interviews, and the findings were subjected to the content analysis technique. The sample comprised people living with HIV that were approached at the time they attended the specialized assistance service, and a sample of 20 participants was defined by saturation technique. Result: categories emerged based on the topics addressed in the interview related to quality of life (food condition, physical activity, leisure, religion, and satisfaction with sexual life) and the experience of living with HIV. Conclusion: people living with HIV in antiretroviral treatment can enjoy good living and the preventing potential factor is the fear of experiencing situations of stigma and discrimination.

Objetivos: conocer las implicaciones para las condiciones de vida de las personas que viven con el VIH en un municipio del Estado de Río de Janeiro, Brasil. Método: estudio de tipo transversal, descriptivo, de naturaleza cualitativa. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de entrevistas, y los hallazgos fueron sometidos a la técnica de análisis de contenido. La muestra se compuso por personas que viven con el VIH que fueron abordadas en el momento en que vinieron al servicio de asistencia especializada, y se definió una muestra de 20 participantes por la técnica de saturación. Resultado: emergieron categorías basadas en los temas abordados en la entrevista relacionados con la calidad de vida (condición alimentaria, actividad física, ocio, religión, y satisfacción con la vida sexual) y la experiencia de vivir con VIH. Conclusión: las personas que viven con el VIH en tratamiento antirretroviral pueden disfrutar de buenas condiciones de vida y salud, y el principal impedimento y el temor de experimentar situaciones de estigma y discriminación.

Sintomas depressivos em angolanos com HIV em período pré-pandêmico / Depressive symptoms in Angolans with HIV in the pre-pandemic period / Síntomas depresivos en angoleños con VIH en el período prepandemia

Objetivo: conhecer os níveis de depressão e sintomas depressivos em angolanos com HIV. Método: estudo descritivo e misto, com estratégia exploratória sequencial, em período pré-pandêmico em um hospital público de Angola. Realizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas, com aplicação do Inventário de Depressão de Beck. Para fins de análise, considerou o conceito de depressão a partir da classificação internacional de doenças. Resultados: prevaleceu depressão leve a moderada para ambos os sexos e estado civil. No G1, a maioria além da tristeza ou infelicidade não conseguem suportar a angústia, alguns verbalizam ter consciência de que os choros não os levará a ter vida anterior desta realidade. Agora se sentem irritados o tempo todo e não sentem mais prazer nas coisas como antes. No G2, expressaram ideias e sentimentos suicidas, estavam desanimados quanto ao futuro, percebem-se fracassados mais do que uma pessoa sem a doença, e adiam a tomada de decisão mais do que o costume. Conclusão: embora não tenha prevalecido formas severas (graves) de depressão, a ocorrência de sintomas negativos em variadas esferas da vida pode evoluir, especialmente no contexto angolano.

Objective:to know the levels of depression and depressive symptoms in Angolans with HIV. Method: descriptive and mixed study, with sequentialexploratory strategy, in the pre-pandemic period in a public hospital in Angola. Semi-structured interviews were carried out, with the application of the Beck Depression Inventory. For analysis purposes, it considered the concept of depression from the international classification of diseases. Results: mild to moderate depression prevailed for both sexes and marital status. In G1, the majority, in addition to sadness or unhappiness, cannot bear the anguish, some verbalize being aware that crying will not lead them to have a previous life in this reality. Now they feel irritable all the time and they don't enjoy things the way they used to. In G2, they expressed suicidal ideas and feelings, were discouraged about the future, perceived themselves as failures more than a person without the disease, and postponed decision-making more than usual. Conclusion: although severe forms of depression have not prevailed, the occurrence of negative symptoms in various spheres of life can evolve, especially in the angolan context.

Objetivo:conocer los niveles de depresión y síntomas depresivos en angoleños con VIH. Método:estudo descriptivo y misto, con estratégia exploratória secuencial, en el período pré-pandêmico en un hospital público de Angola. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas, con la aplicación del Inventario de Depresión de Beck. Para efectos de análisis, se consideró el concepto de depresión de la clasificación internacional de enfermedades. Resultados:predominó la depresión leve a moderada para ambos sexos y estado civil. En G1, la mayoría, además de la tristeza o la infelicidad, no pueden soportar la angustia, algunos verbalizan siendo conscientes de que el llanto no los llevará a tener una vida anterior en esta realidad. Ahora se sienten irritables todo el tiempo y no disfrutan las cosas como antes. En G2 expresaron ideas y sentimientos suicidas, estaban desanimados sobre el futuro, se percibían como fracasados más que una persona sin la enfermedad y postergaban la toma de decisiones más de lo habitual. Conclusión:aunque no han prevalecido formas severas de depresión, la aparición de síntomas negativos en diversas esferas de la vida puede evolucionar, especialmente en el contexto angoleño.

O sofrimento de mulheres que vivem com HIV e o amor interior como prática revolucionária / The suffering of women living with HIV and inner love as a revolutionary practice

RESUMO O estudo teve como objetivo discutir sobre os sofrimentos presentes nas narrativas de mulheres que vivem com HIV e os entraves sociais que as colocam em lugares desprivilegiados em suas existências. Trata-se de pesquisa descritiva, exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa a partir do levantamento de narrativas de participantes integrantes do grupo de saúde mental voltado para mulheres que vivem com HIV. Os dados foram analisados percorrendo as fases de pré-análise, exploração do material e tratamento dos dados à luz das autoras feministas Federici e hooks. A partir das narrativas das mulheres, emergiram as seguintes categorias de análise dos dados: o desamparo afetivo e social experimentado após o diagnóstico do HIV; e o sentimento de impotência e de desapropriação do próprio corpo diante da soropositividade. O estudo mostrou os efeitos do estigma associado ao HIV e os sofrimentos que deles decorrem. A partir dos conceitos de solidão e amor, foi possível refletir sobre a necessidade de o cuidado dos profissionais de saúde considerar, além dos aspectos biológicos, a escuta do sofrimento vivido por mulheres com diagnóstico positivo para HIV.

ABSTRACT The study aims to discuss the suffering in the narratives of women living with HIV and the social obstacles that place them in underprivileged places. This descriptive, qualitative and exploratory research was based on the survey of narratives from participant members of the mental health group focused on women living with HIV. The data were analyzed through pre-analysis, material exploration, and data processing in light of the feminist authors Federici and hooks. The following categories of data analysis emerged from the women's narratives: the affective and social helplessness experienced after the HIV diagnosis and impotence and dispossession of one's own body in the face of seropositivity. The study showed the effects of the stigma associated with HIV and the resulting suffering. Based on the concepts of loneliness and love, we could reflect on the need for health professionals' care to consider biological aspects and listen to the suffering of seropositive women.

Prevalence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and associated factors in pregnant women in the state of Pará / Prevalencia del Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana y factores asociados en mujeres embarazadas en el estado de Pará / Prevalência do Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana e fatores associados em gestantes no estado do Pará

ABSTRACT Objectives: to analyze the prevalence of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and the associated factors in pregnant women in the state of Pará. Methods: retrospective, analytical, quantitative study with a sample of 332 medical records of HIV-positive pregnant women hospitalized at the Referral Maternity Hospital in the state of Pará between 2010 and 2019. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis were performed with the variables collected. Results: the average prevalence in the period was 2.39% and the Metropolitan Region concentrated 66.87% of cases. There was a strong relationship between the number of antenatal consultations and lack of knowledge of serological status (p value equal to 0.01E-17) variables, and a correlation between the education and number of antenatal consultations variables. Conclusions: the increase in the infection rate during the study period revealed the need to intensify health actions, early diagnosis and strategies to improve adherence to antiretroviral treatment for maternal viral suppression and reduction of the risk of vertical transmission, contributing to improve public policies.

RESUMEN Objetivos: analizar la prevalencia del Virus de la Inmunodeficiencia Humana y los factores asociados en mujeres embarazadas en el estado de Pará. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo, analítico, cuantitativo con una muestra de 332 historias clínicas de gestantes VIH positivas hospitalizadas en la Maternidad de Referencia del estado de Pará entre 2010 y 2019. Se realizó análisis estadístico bivariado y multivariado con las variables recolectadas. Resultados: la prevalencia promedio en el período fue de 2,39% y la Región Metropolitana concentró el 66,87% de los casos. Hubo fuerte relación entre las variables número de consultas prenatales y desconocimiento del estado serológico (valor de p igual a 0,01E-17) y correlación entre las variables educación y número de consultas prenatales. Conclusiones: el aumento de la tasa de infección durante el período de estudio reveló la necesidad de intensificar las acciones de salud, el diagnóstico precoz y las estrategias para mejorar la adherencia al tratamiento antirretroviral para la supresión viral materna y la reducción del riesgo de transmisión vertical, contribuyendo a mejorar las políticas públicas.

RESUMO Objetivos: analisar a prevalência do Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana e os fatores associados em gestantes no estado do Pará. Métodos: estudo analítico, quantitativo e retrospectivo com a amostra de 332 prontuários de gestantes HIV positivas internadas na Maternidade de Referência do estado do Pará, no período de 2010 a 2019. Com as variáveis coletadas, procedeu-se a análise estatística bivariada e multivariada. Resultados: a média de prevalência no período foi de 2,39% e a Região Metropolitana concentrou 66,87% dos casos. Houve forte relação entre as variáveis número de consultas pré-natais e desconhecimento do status sorológico (p valor igual a 0,01E-17) e correlação entre as variáveis escolaridade com o número de consultas pré-natais. Conclusões: o aumento da taxa de infecção no período estudado revelou a necessidade de intensificar as ações de saúde, o diagnóstico precoce e as estratégias para a melhoria da adesão ao tratamento antirretroviral para supressão viral materna e redução do risco de transmissão vertical, contribuindo para aprimorar as políticas públicas.

Orofacial lesions associated with long-term highly active antiretroviral therapy among HIV-seropositive adults in Ibadan, Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION: highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has contributed to a reduction in HIV- related oral lesions and improved quality of life among HIV seropositive patients. However, the therapy is not without its side effects. This study was aimed at assessing the self- reported orofacial manifestations due to long term use of HAART, as well as the pattern of oral lesions on examination. METHODS: this was a cross-sectional study conducted among HIV seropositive adult patients in Ibadan, who had been on HAART for at least two years. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Clinical diagnosis of HIV-related oral lesions was made according to the EC-Clearinghouse criteria. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 25. RESULTS: the study participants comprised of 227 HIV seropositive patients who were HAART experienced, with 54 (24%) males and 173 (76%) females. Their mean age (±SD) was 44.7 (±9.4) years. The participants CD4 count ranged from 13-1338cells/mm3, with a median count of 341 cells/mm3. About half (45%) of the participants noted one or more orofacial changes since they commenced HAART. These oral changes included dryness of mouth, burning sensation, abnormal taste, melanotic hyperpigmentation, oral thrush, ulcers, and parotid swelling. Most of those who reported oral changes had been on HAART over 10 years (p=0.03), and the changes were more reported among those on the first-line regimen. CONCLUSION: melanotic hyperpigmentation was the most common oral lesion found and burning mouth syndrome was the most commonly reported complain among HIV-seropositive adults who are on long-term HAART.

Disasters, Gender, and HIV Infection: The Impact of the 2010 Haiti Earthquake.

Although disasters threaten all people who experience them, they do not affect all members of society in the same way. Its effects are not solely restricted to the economic sphere; they also affect the physical and mental health of those who suffer from them, having a particular impact on women and limiting their life chances. The aim of this study was to examine the impact the 2010 Haiti earthquake had on the seropositivity of female survivors. METHOD: Using data from the Demographic and Health Survey, this study examines the impact of the 2010 Haiti earthquake on gender relations associated with the probability of being HIV positive through the differences-in-differences strategy. RESULTS: A differential of four percentage points is observed in the probability of HIV seropositivity between men and women, favoring men. Additionally, it is observed that the probability of seropositivity intensifies when the cohabitation household is headed by a woman. CONCLUSION: Disasters are not indifferent to the gender of the people affected. In the second decade of the 21st century, the conclusions obtained show, once again, the need for incorporating the gender perspective into the management of natural hazards in the field of health. This is the case of the differential exposure to HIV after the earthquake in Haiti.

Predictors of HIV Status Disclosure to Sexual Partners Among People Living with HIV in Brazil.

The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with the non-disclosure of HIV seropositivity among people living with HIV/AIDS undergoing antiretroviral treatment. A cross-sectional study was carried out in five HIV clinics in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent predictors of HIV status disclosure. It was found that 68.5% revealed their HIV seropositivity to their most recent sexual partner. The variables "casual partner" [OR 19.08, 95% CI (4.08, 20.23), p = 0.001], "sexual partners with negative HIV or unknown HIV" [OR 4.54, 95% CI (1.58, 1.01), p = 0.005], "multiple sexual partners" [OR = 3.17, 95% CI (1.34, 7.35), p = 0.009], and "lack of communication with the partner on HIV prevention"[OR = 8.3, 95% CI (3.88, 16.61), p = 0.001] were independently associated with non-disclosure of the diagnosis. Future HIV prevention interventions should encourage open communication between sexual partners.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue identificar los factores asociados con la no divulgación de la seropositividad al VIH entre las personas que viven con el VIH / SIDA en tratamiento antirretroviral. Se realizó un estudio transversal en cinco clínicas de VIH en el interior del estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Se utilizó un análisis de regresión logística para determinar predictores independientes de la revelación del estado del VIH. Se encontró que el 68,5% reveló su seropositividad al VIH a su pareja sexual más reciente. Las variables "pareja casual" [OR 19,08, IC 95% (4,08, 20,23), p = 0,001], "parejas sexuales con VIH negativo o VIH desconocido" [OR 4,54,95% IC 95% (1,58, 1,01), p = 0,005], "múltiples parejas sexuales" [OR 3,17, IC del 95% (1,34, 7,35), p = 0,009] y "falta de comunicación con la pareja sobre la prevención del VIH" [OR 8,3, IC 95% (3,88, 16,61), p = 0,001] se asociaron de forma independiente con la no divulgación del diagnóstico. Las futuras intervenciones de prevención del VIH deberían fomentar la comunicación abierta entre las parejas sexuales.

New HIV infections from blood transfusions averted in 28 countries supported by PEPFAR blood safety programs, 2004-2015.

BACKGROUND: To quantify the impact of the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) on the risk of HIV transmission through infected blood donations in countries supported by PEPFAR blood safety programs. METHODS: Data reported to the World Health Organization Global Database on Blood Safety were analyzed from 28 countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), Asia, and the Caribbean during 2004-2015. We used the Goals model of Spectrum Spectrum System Software, version 5.53, to perform the modeling, assuming laboratory quality for HIV testing had 91.9% sensitivity and 97.7% specificity irrespective of testing method based on results of two external quality assurance and proficiency testing studies of transfusion screening for HIV in SSA blood centers. We calculated the number of new HIV infections from the number of transfusions and the prevalence of HIV infection acquired from blood transfusions with infected blood donations. We determined the impact of laboratory testing programs by estimating the number of new HIV infections averted since PEPFAR implementation. RESULTS: Assuming that HIV testing would not be performed in any of these countries without PEPFAR funding, the number of new HIV infections acquired from blood transfusions averted by laboratory testing increased over time in all 28 countries. The total number of HIV infections averted was estimated at 229 278 out of 20 428 373 blood transfusions during 2004-2015. CONCLUSION: Our mathematical modeling suggests a positive impact achieved over 12 years of PEPFAR support for blood safety. Standardized HIV testing of donated blood has reduced the risk of HIV transmission through blood transfusions in SSA, Asia, and the Caribbean.

Rates of refusal of clinical autopsies among HIV-positive decedents and an overview of autopsies in Uganda.

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related mortality remains high in sub-Saharan Africa. Clinical autopsies can provide invaluable information to help ascertain the cause of death. We aimed to determine the rate and reasons for autopsy refusal amongst families of HIV-positive decedents in Uganda. Methods: We consented the next-of-kin for post-mortem examinations among Ugandan decedents with HIV from 2017-2020 at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital. For those who refused autopsies, reasons were recorded. Results: In this analysis, 165 decedents with HIV were included from three selected wards at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital.  Autopsy was not performed in 45% of the deceased patients; the rate of autopsy refusal was 36%. The most common reasons for autopsy refusal were time constraints (30%), family satisfaction with clinical diagnosis (15%), fear of disfigurement of the remains (15%), and lack of perceived benefit (15%). By seeking consent from multiple family members and clearly explaining to them the purpose of performing the autopsy, we found a reduction in the rate of autopsy refusal among relatives of the deceased patients at this hospital compared to previous studies at the same site (36% vs. 60%). Conclusions: We found lower rates of autopsy refusal compared to previous studies at the same site. This underscores the importance of clearly explaining the purpose of autopsies as they increase active sensitization about their relevance and dispel myths related to autopsies among the general population. Good, culturally sensitive, and timely explanations to the family of the benefits of autopsy increase the rate of obtaining permission. Building capacity for performing autopsies by training more pathologists and increasing laboratory resources to decrease the turn-around-time for autopsy reports and extending these services to peripheral health facilities could improve autopsy acceptance rates.

HIV sero-positivity and risk factors for ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke in hospitalised patients in Uganda: A prospective-case-control study.

Objectives: We examined HIV sero-positivity and risk factors in patients admitted with ischaemic stroke (IS) and haemorrhagic stroke (HS) in Kampala, Uganda. Study design: We conducted a matched case-control study between December 2016 and December 2018 â€‹at â€‹St Francis Hospital, Nsambya. Methods: The study population comprised of stroke cases (adults aged ≥18 years with IS or HS confirmed by neuroimaging) and controls (age- and sex-matched stroke-free adults aged ≥18 years who were recruited from the same hospital as the cases). A comprehensive assessment for sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical factors was performed using the World Health Organization (WHO) STEP-wise approach to Surveillance (STEPS) for stroke risk factor surveillance. We used conditional logistic regression to identify risk factors associated with IS or HS. Results: We enrolled 137 matched case-control pairs; 48 (35%) were men, and the mean ages were 62.4 years (SD â€‹± â€‹14.8) for cases and 61.1 years (SD â€‹± â€‹14.1) for controls. Of stroke patients, 86 (63%) had IS and 51 (37%) had HS. Overall, HIV sero-positivity was 10% among stroke cases versus 7% among controls. HIV sero-positivity was not significantly associated with stroke (unadjusted odds ratio [uOR] â€‹= â€‹1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59-3.78). A self-reported family history of diabetes mellitus was associated with an increased risk of all stroke (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] â€‹= â€‹4.41, 95% CI 1.47-13.2), as well as for IS and HS separately (aOR â€‹= â€‹3.66, 95% CI 1.09-12.4 and aOR â€‹= â€‹4.99, 95% CI 1.02-24.4, respectively). High blood pressure (≥140/90 â€‹mmHg) was associated with an increased risk of all stroke (aOR â€‹= â€‹12.3, 95% CI 42-44.1), and this was also true for IS and HS individually (aOR â€‹= â€‹6.48, 95% CI 1.15-36.7 and aOR â€‹= â€‹5.63, 95% CI 1.74-18.2, respectively). Conclusions: No association was found between HIV sero-positivity and stroke occurrence among Ugandan stroke patients. Hypertension and a self-reported family history of diabetes mellitus were significant risk factors for both IS and HS. Interventions to reduce hypertension and diabetes mellitus in the Ugandan population are urgently required. Much larger studies are required to demonstrate if any association exists between HIV and stroke.

Effect of Enhanced Adherence Package on Early ART Uptake Among HIV-Positive Pregnant Women in Zambia: An Individual Randomized Controlled Trial.

We evaluated the effect of an option B-plus Enhanced Adherence Package (BEAP), on early ART uptake in a randomized controlled trial. HIV-positive, ART naïve pregnant women in Lusaka, Zambia, were randomized to receive BEAP (phone calls/home visits, additional counseling, male partner engagement and missed-visit follow-up) versus standard of care (SOC). The primary outcome was initiating and remaining on ART at 30 days. Analysis was by intention to treat (ITT) using logistic regression. Additional per protocol analysis was done. We enrolled 454 women; 229 randomized to BEAP and 225 to SOC. Within 30 days of eligibility, 445 (98.2%) initiated ART. In ITT analysis, 82.5% BEAP versus 80.4% SOC participants reached primary outcome (crude relative risk [RR] 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-1.16; Wald test statistic = 0.44; p-value = 0.66). In per protocol analysis, (92 participants (40.2%) excluded), 91.9% BEAP versus 80.4% SOC participants reached primary outcome (crude RR 1.14; 95% CI 1.02-1.29; Wald test statistic = 2.23; p-value = 0.03). Early ART initiation in pregnancy was nearly universal but there was early drop out suggesting need for additional adherence support.This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (trials number NCT02459678) on May 14, 2015.

Determinants of HIV status disclosure to children living with HIV in coastal Karnataka, India.

The caregivers of HIV-positive children either delay or avoid disclosure of HIV status to the child due to several reasons. Keeping the child's HIV status a secret puts them at considerable risk of stopping therapy and transmitting HIV to others. Hence this study was conducted to assess the determinants of disclosure of HIV status to infected children in coastal Karnataka. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a District Hospital in Coastal Karnataka from October 2014 to July 2015. One hundred eighty-five caregivers were recruited for the study purposively and interviewed using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire after written informed consent. Of the 185 caregivers interviewed, 78 (42%) caregivers had not disclosed the HIV status to the child. The child being too young was the most common reason for non-disclosure of HIV status. The majority of the caregivers intended to disclose the HIV status fully to the child after the child attained ten years of age. Nearly two-thirds of the caregivers wanted to disclose it themselves in their own homes. The significant determinants of disclosure of HIV status were the age of the child, and person involved in childcare, and the venue of the disclosure.

Sociodemographic profile of patients attending the integrated counseling and testing center at a government super-specialty hospital in Central India.

CONTEXT: The HIV epidemic continues to be a matter of concern worldwide. Integrated counseling and testing center (ICTC) is an opening wedge for HIV diagnosis and support services, especially to the high-risk groups. Counseling and testing is a cost-effective and simple way of reducing HIV transmission. AIMS: The aim of the study was to analyze the sociodemographic profiles of the ICTC attendees to evaluate the changing trends of HIV seropositivities over a period of 7 years. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a retrospective study done in the ICTC housed in a tertiary care hospital at Bhopal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All attendees in the period of 7 years were included. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: percentages and proportions were calculated. RESULTS: There were 24,853 ICTC attendees from January 2009 to January 2016, of which 183 (6.41%) attendees were tested seropositive. There were 15,555 (62.5%) males and 9298 (37.5%) female attendees. Among 15,555 males, 151 (0.97%) were seropositive, and of 9298 females, 32 (0.34%) were seropositive. Of 151 seropositive males, 62 (41%) were in the age group of 19-30 years and 48 (31.7%) were in the age group of 31-40 years. Among the seropositive females, 9 (28.1%) were in the age group of 19-30 years and 10 (31.2%) were in the age group of 31-40 years. We observed a rise in total number of ICTC attendees from January 2009 to January 2016. The number of attendees increased to 4655 in 2013, of which 27 (0.58%) were seropositive, and by 2015, there were 4982 attendees with only 6 (0.12%) seropositives. CONCLUSION: Such rising trends of attendees and a steady decline in the seropositivity rates are encouraging signs, reflecting the contribution of the ICTC in creating awareness, and reducing the transmission of HIV among the population served.

Rising HIV seroconversion rates & associated risks among employees of organization 'X': A case control study, Pakistan, 2017.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In 2004 Pakistan escalated from 'low-prevalence' to 'concentrated' phase of HIV epidemic. Despite global decline in HIV incidence since 1997, rate of HIV infections in Pakistan is persistently rising since 1990. Available literature focusses on key populations or localized outbreaks limited by short study duration and regional applicability of results. We studied HIV seroconversion trends over a period of 8 years in a geographically diverse population and evaluated associated risk factors. METHODS: A desk review of HIV surveillance data from 2010 to 2017 was carried out at Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. A case was defined as any adult employed in organization 'X', initially screened for HIV but later seroconverted on ELISA and western blot. Case-control study was conducted on cases diagnosed in 2017. Age and sex matched controls were identified from same population sub-group. Structured telephonic interviews were conducted and statistical analysis done at 5% margin of error. RESULTS: The annual HIV diagnosis rate remained relatively stable till 2015 (< 40 /100,000/yr) after which it rose sharply to 60/100,000/yr in 2016 .Upward trend continued in 2017 to reach 125/100,000/yr (>200% increase from baseline). Acquisition of HIV was significantly associated with commercial sex activities (OR=9; 95% CI: 1.25-395). CONCLUSION: HIV seroconversion rates among employees of organization X have increased significantly in the past two years. Unlike HIV outbreaks previously reported from Pakistan, sexual route seems to be the predominant mode of transmission. Focus is mandated on prevention of sexual transmission of HIV at national level as well for all vulnerable populations.

Anal dysplasia and anal cancer. English version.

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) and 89-100% of anal cancers are caused by persistent infections with high-risk (HR) human papillomaviruses (HPV). In HIV-positive patients, anal HPV infection and AIN are very common and these patients have a significantly increased risk for anal cancer. However, a continuous increase in the incidence of anal cancer has also been observed in the general population in recent decades. AIN can clinically present in diverse manners. In HIV-positive patients AIN can be hidden in condylomas. Approximately 3-14% of high-grade AIN progress to anal cancer within 5 years. Therefore, screening examinations should be offered to patients with an increased risk for anal cancer. The treatment options for AIN are similar to those for condylomas. HIV-positive patients with controlled immune status and HIV-negative patients with anal cancer respond comparably well to combined radiochemotherapy. A German-language S3 guideline for anal cancer will be available in 2020. In HIV-positive patients over 26 years of age, HPV vaccination showed no effect in a controlled phase­3 study. To prevent AIN and anal cancer in the future, HPV vaccination rates need to be increased in HPV-naïve girls and boys.