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Nacht CL, Strathdee SA, Harvey-Vera A, Vera CF, Rangel G, Klausner JD, Artamonova I, Abramovitz D, Skaathun B. Prevalence and Factors Associated With Sexually Transmitted Infections Among People who Inject Drugs in the San Diego-Tijuana Border Region. Open Forum Infect Dis 2025; 12:ofaf171. [PMID: 40242066 PMCID: PMC12001344 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaf171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Few estimates exist of the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and associated risk factors among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the San Diego-Tijuana border region, despite the high prevalence of HIV. Methods PWID living in San Diego or Tijuana underwent testing for bacterial STIs between December 2022 and February 2024. Urogenital gonorrhea and chlamydia infections were assessed using a urine test, the Aptima CT/GC assay. Syphilis was assessed using the treponemal Syphilis Health Check Rapid Point-of-Care assay and nontreponemal rapid plasma reagin Treponema pallidum Particle Agglutination test. HIV was tested using the fingerstick tests Miriad HCV/HIV POU+ Test and Oraquick HIV-1. Bacterial STI prevalence was calculated, and logistic regression was conducted to identify correlates of bacterial STI prevalence. Results Of 519 participants, 6.0% (95% CI, 3.9%-8.0%) tested positive for 1 or more bacterial STIs. Despite higher HIV prevalence in Tijuana, bacterial STIs were more prevalent in San Diego. Unstable housing, female birth, and US residency were associated with significantly higher adjusted odds of a bacterial STI compared with the reference groups (aOR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.09-6.27; aOR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.15-5.08; and OR, 2.79; 95% CI, 1.03-7.53; respectively). Conclusions Overall prevalence of bacterial STIs was consistent with other estimates of STIs among PWID in the United States. STI screening guidelines should recommend PWID for routine testing at least annually. Point-of-care testing should be expanded to increase access to STI screening and treatment for marginalized populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie L Nacht
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Steffanie A Strathdee
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Alicia Harvey-Vera
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Carlos F Vera
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Gudelia Rangel
- Departamento de Estudios de Poblacion, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Irina Artamonova
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Daniela Abramovitz
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Division of Infections Disease and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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Anderson KM, Sheth AN, Dixon Diallo D, Ellison C, Er DL, Ntukogu A, Komro K, Sales JM. HIV Prevention and Sexual Health Conversations Among Women in Ending the HIV Epidemic Priority Communities: A Qualitative Exploration of Experiences and Preferences. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2025; 54:1537-1553. [PMID: 40102279 PMCID: PMC12167928 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-025-03108-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2025] [Accepted: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/20/2025]
Abstract
Despite significant advances in HIV prevention, women comprise ~ 20% of new HIV infections in the USA. New infections occur primarily in the South and among Black women, with research demonstrating that insufficient knowledge, inaccurate risk assessment, and HIV stigma impair HIV prevention. Understanding how cisgender women wish to communicate about sexual health and HIV prevention is vital to facilitating conversations about, and subsequent uptake of prevention methods. A total of 70 individuals who lived or worked in four HIV prevention priority counties in the state of Georgia were recruited through community-based organizations (CBOs) and flyers. Consenting participants completed 30-45-min interviews. Interviews were transcribed verbatim; transcripts were coded deductively and inductively. Participants were primarily female-identifying (91%) and were primarily Black. Overall, participants noted that community-level conversations about sexual health among women were limited due to stigma, despite endorsed comfort with conversations. Participants noted that media/community sources implied HIV prevention was unneeded for cisgender women. CBOs and informed community members were endorsed as trusted sources for information; clinicians were cited as a theoretically trusted source, particularly sexual health preventative care providers with established patient relationships, though barriers of medical mistrust, lack of cultural concordance, and stigma were noted. Suggestions for improved communication around HIV prevention included use of community members/trusted sources to facilitate conversation, promotion of non-judgment in clinical practice, and prevention awareness building. Participants' responses suggest little-to-no movement in knowledge of HIV prevention for US women. Engagement of CBOs in community education, training of community leaders, and integration of trauma-informed and patient-empowering clinical practices should be explored to promote increased HIV prevention discussion and uptake among cisgender women in the US South.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Anderson
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Anandi N Sheth
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Celeste Ellison
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Deja L Er
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Kelli Komro
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Ramírez-López A, Meneses-Falcón C, Romo-Avilés N. Health, social, and violence profiles of women in treatment for psychoactive substance use in Madrid. Public Health 2025; 239:127-132. [PMID: 39826495 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2024.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2024] [Revised: 11/14/2024] [Accepted: 12/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to describe the profile of women seeking treatment for the use of psychoactive substances in the city of Madrid. The study used a sample of 1968 women who sought treatment at the Addiction Care Centers (CAD) of the Madrid City Council in the year 2022, which accounted for 22.9 % of the total population attended. STUDY DESIGN This quantitative study used secondary data provided by the Institute of Addictions (General Subdirectorate of Addictions, Madrid Salud). The analyses included bivariate analysis, correspondence analysis, K-means clustering, and ANOVA. METHODS Bivariate analysis was conducted to determine the association between the principal psychoactive substance and sociodemographic characteristics. Statistically significant results were employed to develop a correspondence analysis and used to conduct a K-means clustering analysis. The objective was to determine the profile of the women who sought treatment at the CAD of the Institute of Addictions (General Subdirectorate of Addictions of Madrid Salud). RESULTS The results revealed three profiles of women: 1) women who use cocaine and heroin, were unemployed with children, and had lower education; 2) women who used cannabis were not working, had no children, and had intermediate education; 3) women who used alcohol had children, higher education, and were working. All three profiles were associated with situations of domestic violence, where the percentages were very high in each of the profiles, regardless of the principal substance of use and the sociodemographic and health characteristics. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight the need for tailored addiction treatment approaches that address the distinct social and health profiles of women in Madrid, including challenges such as motherhood, drug-related infections, and violence. These findings emphasize the importance of providing specialized services to approach the complex needs of women undergoing addiction treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel Ramírez-López
- Department of Sociology and Social Work at Comillas Pontifical University, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Carmen Meneses-Falcón
- Department of Sociology and Social Work at Comillas Pontifical University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Romo-Avilés
- Department of Social Anthropology and the University Institute for Research in Women's and Gender Studies at University of Granada, Spain
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Meyer JP, Brunson S, Price CR, Mulrain M, Nguyen J, Altice FL, Kyriakides TC, Cropsey K, Eaton E. Rationale and design of a randomized clinical trial of integrated eHealth for PrEP and medications for opioid use disorders for women in the criminal legal system. The Athena study. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2025; 20:4. [PMID: 39825419 PMCID: PMC11742507 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00534-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/20/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women involved in the criminal legal system have elevated rates of opioid use disorder, which is treatable, and HIV, which is preventable with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). There are significant social and structural barriers to integrated delivery of PrEP and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), limiting women's ability to access these life-saving interventions. In a two parallel-arm randomized controlled trial, we are assessing an innovative eHealth delivery model that integrates PrEP with MOUD and is tailored to meet the specific needs of women involved in the criminal legal system. METHODS We will recruit and enroll 250 women involved in the criminal legal system with opioid use disorder across two diverse settings (New Haven, CT and Birmingham, AL). Participants will be randomized to (a) the "Athena strategy," which includes a PrEP decision aid and integrated PrEP/MOUD delivery via eHealth; or (b) enhanced standard of care (SOC) that includes a decision aid-only. During 6-month follow-up, we will assess PrEP initiation as the primary clinical outcome and implementation outcomes that include acceptability, adoption, feasibility, fidelity, implementation cost, and sustainability. DISCUSSION Results could help determine if reducing the social and structural barriers to PrEP and MOUD for women involved in the criminal legal system will facilitate engagement in treatment and prevention services, thus alleviating health disparities. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05547048). Registered September 15, 2022. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05547048?term=NCT05547048&rank=1 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie P Meyer
- Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
- Yale School of Public Health, Chronic Disease Epidemiology, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
- , 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Stacey Brunson
- Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Carolina R Price
- Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Morgan Mulrain
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Julie Nguyen
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Yale School of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Tassos C Kyriakides
- Yale Center for Analytical Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Karen Cropsey
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Ellen Eaton
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Tesfie TK, Yismaw GA, Yirsaw BG, Abuhay HW, Alemayehu MA, Derseh NM, Alemu GG, Agimas MC. Prevalence and associated factors of HIV among female sex workers in Eastern and Southern Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0313868. [PMID: 39621614 PMCID: PMC11611193 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0313868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 10/31/2024] [Indexed: 12/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sex workers (FSWs) are marginalized groups of the population who have limited access to healthcare and a higher risk of HIV infection due to biobehavioral and structural risk factors. Although it is known that the Eastern and Southern African region is affected by the highest HIV incidence and prevalence, understanding the burden among FSWs in the region remains limited. We aimed to assess the pooled prevalence and associated factors of HIV in this vulnerable population. METHODS Relevant studies were searched on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Hinari, African Journals Online (AJOL), Google, and Google Scholar. The searching mechanism was constructed using keywords identified by CoCoPop (Condition, Context, and Population) framework and medical subject heading terms to recruit studies published between January 1, 2015 and March 30, 2024. Observational studies that estimate the prevalence or incidence or associated factors of HIV among FSWs, even if FSWs were not the main focus of the study, were included. The quality of included studies was assessed using Joana Brigg's Institute checklist. Data were extracted and analyzed using STATA 17 software. To estimate the pooled effect sizes with their 95% confidence intervals, a random effect model was fitted. The I2 statistic was used to evaluate heterogeneity. Funnel plot and Egger's regression test were utilized to assess the small study effect. Publication bias was managed using trim-and-fill analysis. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis were considered to handle heterogeneity among studies. RESULTS A total of 54 articles with 78,747 FSWs who had successful HIV biological test were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of HIV among FSWs in Eastern and Southern Africa was 36.0% (95% CI: 31.0%-41.0%). Regionally, the pooled prevalence was 59.0% (95% CI: 53.0%-64.0%) and 29.0% (95% CI: 25.0%-34.0%) in Southern and Eastern Africa, respectively. Age above 35 (POR = 7.35; 95% CI: 5.26, 10.28) and 25-34 years (POR = 2.91; 95% CI: 2.02, 4.21), being married (POR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.66), divorced (POR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.39, 2.13), and widowed (POR = 2.70; 95% CI: 2.09, 3.49), primary education (POR = 1.29; 95% CI:1.08, 1.55), history of sexually transmitted infection (POR = 1.51; 95% CI: 1.20, 1.90), syphilis (POR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.66, 3.98), Hepatitis B infection (POR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.07,6.32), drinking alcohol (POR = 1.21; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.45) and injectable drug use before sex (POR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.24, 2.47) were found significantly associated with the increased risk of HIV infection among FSWs. CONCLUSION These data suggest an urgent need to improve access to HIV prevention programs for FSWs. Providing behavioral interventions including reduction of alcohol and injectable drug use before sex, initiating tailored healthcare services, strengthening the psychosocial and legal support network, and fostering partnership might reduce the burden in the region. Clinicians could facilitate early detection and treatment of STIs, and Hepatitis B virus infection. TRIAL REGISTRATION Protocol registration: The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024509200.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tigabu Kidie Tesfie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Getaneh Awoke Yismaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bantie Getnet Yirsaw
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Habtamu Wagnew Abuhay
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Meron Asmamaw Alemayehu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Nebiyu Mekonnen Derseh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gebrie Getu Alemu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Muluken Chanie Agimas
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Beaugard CA, Khudairi F, Yesufu O, Farina A, Laks J. "I don't think of it as a shelter. I say I'm going home": a qualitative evaluation of a low-threshold shelter for women who use drugs. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:44. [PMID: 38374063 PMCID: PMC10877776 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00930-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2021-2022, encampments in a downtown Boston neighborhood reached record heights, increasing the visibility of drug use and homelessness in the city. In response, the city planned a "sweep" (i.e., eradication of encampments) and requested support from social services and medical providers to pilot low-threshold shelters. Low-threshold shelters reduce barriers to staying in traditional congregate shelters with more flexible regulations, longer-term bed assignments, and secured storage for contraband (e.g., drugs, weapons) instead of forced disposal. One homeless service provider opened a harm reduction-focused shelter for women who use drugs. This report describes the low-threshold shelter design and program evaluation. METHODS This program evaluation had two primary aims: (1) to examine guests' beliefs about shelter policies and practices; and (2) to understand the staff's experiences working in a low-threshold model. We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with 16 guests and 12 staff members during the summer 2022. Interviews were thematically analyzed. RESULTS Guests expressed overwhelming approval for the shelter's policies, which they stated supported their autonomy, dignity, and safety. They emphasized the staff's willingness to build relationships, thus demonstrating true commitment to the guests. Guests highlighted the value of daytime access to the shelter, as it granted them autonomy over their time, reduced their substance use, and helped them build relationships with staff and other guests. The co-directors and staff designed the shelter quickly and without US models for reference; they turned to international literature, local harm reduction health care providers, and women living in encampments for guidance on the shelter policies. The staff were passionate and committed to the health and stability of the guests. Most staff found value in the low-threshold model, though some were challenged by it, believing it enabled drug use and did not require the guests to "get better." CONCLUSIONS This evaluation indicates the value of low-threshold, harm reduction shelters as alternatives to traditional models. While these shelters do not mitigate the need for overarching housing reform, they are important measures to meet the needs of women experiencing unsheltered homelessness who face intersectional oppression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne A Beaugard
- School of Social Work, Boston University, 264 Bay State Road, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- , 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Crosstown Building 4th Floor, Suite 400, Boston, MA, 02180, USA.
| | - Fay Khudairi
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, 780 Albany Street, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Oluwatoyin Yesufu
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, 780 Albany Street, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Andrea Farina
- St. Francis House, 39 Boylston St, Boston, MA, 02116, USA
| | - Jordana Laks
- Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, 780 Albany Street, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
- Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Boston University, 801 Massachusetts Ave 6th Floor, Boston, MA, 02119, USA
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Opheim E, Dalgard O, Ulstein K, Sørli H, Backe Ø, Foshaug T, Couëssurel Wüsthoff LE, Midgard H. Towards elimination of hepatitis C in Oslo: Cross-sectional prevalence studies among people who inject drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 123:104279. [PMID: 38061225 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Norway aims to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection within the end of 2023. Before the introduction of direct-acting antivirals, the prevalence of chronic HCV infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Oslo was 40-45 %. The primary aim of the study was to assess changes in HCV prevalence among PWID in Oslo from 2018 to 2021. The secondary aim was to assess change in prevalence in selected subgroups. METHODS Point prevalence studies were conducted in 2018 and 2021 among PWID attending low-threshold health services in downtown Oslo. Assessments included blood samples analysed for anti-HCV and HCV RNA, and a questionnaire about drug use. Information about previous HCV treatment was only collected in the 2021 cohort. We calculated HCV RNA prevalence estimates for 2018 and 2021 and used logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with detectable HCV RNA and previous HCV treatment. RESULTS A total of 281 and 261 participants were included in 2018 and 2021, respectively. The median age was 40.6 and 44.0 years, 73.7 % and 72.8 % were men, and 74.5 % and 78.6 % reported recent (past four weeks) injecting drug use, respectively. HCV RNA prevalence decreased significantly from 26.3 % (95 % CI 21.3-31.9) in 2018 (74 of 281) to 14.2 % (95 % CI 10.2-19.0) in 2021 (37 of 261). The odds of detectable HCV RNA were significantly lower in 2021 compared to 2018 (aOR 0.41; 95 % CI 0.26-0.67). In the 2021 cohort, detectable HCV RNA was associated with recent amphetamine injecting (aOR 7.21; 95 % CI 1.41-36.95), and mixed heroin/amphetamine injecting (aOR 7.97; 95 % CI 1.55-41.07). The odds of previous treatment were lower among women (aOR 0.52; 95 % CI 0.27-1.00). CONCLUSION A substantial decrease in HCV RNA prevalence among PWID in Oslo between 2018 and 2021 was observed. To reach elimination, adaptive services must be further developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirik Opheim
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, City of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjersti Ulstein
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, City of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne Sørli
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, City of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Backe
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, City of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tarjei Foshaug
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, City of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Linda Elise Couëssurel Wüsthoff
- Unit for Clinical Research on Addictions, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Håvard Midgard
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Dickson MF, Tillson M, Calvert JM, Staton M. Transactional sex among rural, justice-involved Appalachian women who use drugs. J Rural Health 2023; 39:789-794. [PMID: 36648452 PMCID: PMC10350464 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transactional sex is associated with an array of other health risk behaviors and adverse health outcomes, including HIV. However, despite concerns regarding a potential HIV outbreak, there is limited understanding of transactional sex among rural Appalachians who engage in high-risk behaviors. Thus, the current study describes the prevalence and correlates of transactional sex among a sample of rural, justice-involved Appalachian women who use drugs. METHODS Participants (N = 400) were randomly selected, screened, and interviewed face-to-face at 3 rural Appalachian jails in Kentucky. Bivariate analyses were used to examine differences between those who reported trading sex for drugs, money, goods, or services in the year prior to incarceration and those who had not, and multivariable logistic regression was used to examine independent correlates of transactional sex. FINDINGS On average, participants were 33 years old with 11 years of education. They were predominantly White (99.0%), about half (43.7%) reported lifetime transactional sex, and 25.9% reported past year transactional sex. Past year transactional sex was positively associated with experiencing money problems, substance use problem severity, injection drug use, unprotected sex with a casual partner, and number of sexual partners in the year prior to incarceration. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that transactional sex is fairly common among rural Appalachian women who use drugs and are justice-involved and may signal other HIV-related risk behaviors. Given limited service availability throughout rural Appalachia, findings emphasize a need for increased access to risk-reduction interventions, including jail-based interventions, to educate vulnerable, hard-to-reach populations on the risks associated with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan F. Dickson
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Martha Tillson
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Joseph M. Calvert
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Michele Staton
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Darlington CK, Lipsky RK, Teitelman AM, Koblin BA, Davis A, Walcott M, Compton PA, Tieu HV. HIV risk perception, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness, and PrEP initiation intention among women who use drugs. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2023; 152:209119. [PMID: 37451517 PMCID: PMC10529693 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women who use drugs (WWUD) are prime candidates for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) due to their elevated risk of acquiring HIV through biological, behavioral, and contextual factors. However, PrEP uptake among WWUD remains low. The relationship between unhealthy drug use and correlates of PrEP uptake in this vulnerable population is not well defined. The purpose of this study is to characterize the relationships between specific types and routes of drug use and several precursors of PrEP uptake among WWUD. METHODS The study collected data via a computer-based survey from 233 women living in New York City and Philadelphia who participated in a study designed to develop and pilot a women-focused intervention for PrEP uptake. The sample of cisgender, HIV-negative women were not currently taking PrEP but considered PrEP eligible. This analysis is focused on women's HIV risk perception, PrEP awareness, PrEP initiation intention, and any use of the following drugs: barbiturates, benzodiazepines, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin, methamphetamines, and prescription opioids. RESULTS Within the three months prior to study enrollment, 63.1 % of participants reported any drug use; 42 % reported polydrug use; 19.8 % had injected drugs; 75 % reported getting high or drunk before sex; and 44 % had been enrolled in drug treatment. Of our total sample, 41.2 % perceived themselves at risk for HIV infection, 41.6 % were aware of PrEP prior to the study, and 62.7 % intended to initiate PrEP after they were informed. When compared to other PrEP-eligible women, women who reported prescription opioid use and polydrug use perceived themselves at higher risk for HIV infection and had higher intention to start PrEP. However, they and women who reported injecting drugs also reported lower awareness of PrEP. CONCLUSION These findings have implications for increasing education about PrEP and the various modes of HIV exposure to support PrEP uptake in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anne M Teitelman
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Thomas Jefferson University, College of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Annet Davis
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Melonie Walcott
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peggy A Compton
- University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hong-Van Tieu
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY, USA; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Martin AK, Perryman T, Bernstein JA, Taylor JL, Cruz R, Muroff J, Samet JH, Assoumou SA. Peer recovery coaching for comprehensive HIV, hepatitis C, and opioid use disorder management: The CHORUS pilot study. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 7:100156. [PMID: 37113387 PMCID: PMC10126838 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Amidst a surge in HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in persons who use drugs, medications that effectively prevent HIV and treat opioid use disorder and HCV remain underutilized. Methods We developed a 6-month peer recovery coaching intervention (brief motivational interviewing followed by weekly virtual or in-person coaching) and collected data on uptake of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and HCV treatment. The primary outcomes were intervention acceptability and feasibility. Results At a Boston substance use disorder bridge clinic, we enrolled 31 HIV-negative patients who used opioids. Participants reported high intervention satisfaction at 6 months (95% "satisfied" or "very satisfied"). At study completion, 48% of the participants were on MOUD, 43% who met CDC guidelines were on PrEP, and 22% with HCV were engaged with treatment. Conclusions A peer recovery coaching intervention is feasible and acceptable, with positive preliminary findings regarding MOUD, PrEP and HCV treatment uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Martin
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tyshaun Perryman
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Judith A. Bernstein
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jessica L. Taylor
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ricardo Cruz
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jordana Muroff
- Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jeffrey H. Samet
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sabrina A. Assoumou
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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11
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Glick JL, Zhang L, Rosen JG, Yaroshevich K, Atiba B, Pelaez D, Park JN. A Novel Capacity-Strengthening Intervention for Frontline Harm Reduction Workers to Support Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Awareness-Building and Promotion Among People Who Use Drugs: Formative Research and Intervention Development. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e42418. [PMID: 37052977 PMCID: PMC10141312 DOI: 10.2196/42418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV prevalence among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Baltimore, Maryland, is higher than among the general population. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a widely available medication that prevents HIV transmission, yet its usefulness is low among PWUD in Baltimore City and the United States. Community-level interventions to promote PrEP uptake and adherence among PWUD are limited. OBJECTIVE We describe the development of a capacity-strengthening intervention designed for frontline harm reduction workers (FHRWs) to support PrEP awareness-building and promotion among PWUD. METHODS Our study was implemented in 2 phases in Baltimore City, Maryland. The formative phase focused on a qualitative exploration of the PrEP implementation environment, as well as facilitators and barriers to PrEP willingness and uptake, among cisgender women who use drugs. This work, as well as the existing literature, theory, and feedback from our community partners, informed the intervention development phase, which used an academic-community partnership model. The intervention involved a 1-time, 2-hour training with FHRWs aimed at increasing general PrEP knowledge and developing self-efficacy promoting PrEP in practice (eg, facilitating PrEP dialogues with clients, supporting client advancement along a model of PrEP readiness, and referring clients to PrEP services). In a separate paper, we describe the conduct and results of a mixed methods evaluation to assess changes in PrEP-related knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and promotion practices among FHRWs participating in the training. RESULTS The pilot was developed from October to December 2021 and implemented from December 2021 through April 2022. We leveraged existing relationships with community-based harm reduction organizations to recruit FHRWs into the intervention. A total of 39 FHRWs from 4 community-based organizations participated in the training across 4 sessions (1 in-person, 2 online synchronous, and 1 online asynchronous). FHRW training attendees represented a diverse range of work cadres, including peer workers, case managers, and organizational administrators. CONCLUSIONS This intervention could prevent the HIV burden among PWUD by leveraging the relationships that FHRWs have with PWUD and by supporting advancement along the PrEP continuum. Given suboptimal PrEP uptake among PWUD and the limited number of interventions designed to address this gap, our intervention offers an innovative approach to a burgeoning public health problem. If effective, our intervention has the potential to be further developed and scaled up to increase PrEP awareness and uptake among PWUD worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Glick
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Leanne Zhang
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Joseph G Rosen
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | | | - Bakari Atiba
- Charm City Care Connection, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Danielle Pelaez
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
- Center of Biomedical Research Excellence on Opioids and Overdose, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
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12
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Laks J, Walley AY, Bagley SM, Barber CM, Gaeta JM, Neville LA, Peterkin AF, Rosenthal E, Saia KA, Weinstein ZM, Harris MTH. Developing a Women's Health track within addiction medicine fellowship: reflections and inspirations. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:3. [PMID: 36617557 PMCID: PMC9827632 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who use drugs face sexism and intersectional stigma that influence their drug use experiences and treatment needs. There is a need to build the capacity of addiction medicine specialists who can deliver gender-responsive services and advance research and policy in women-focused addiction care. We describe the development of a Women's Health track within an addiction medicine fellowship program and reflect on successes, challenges, and future directions. MAIN BODY The Women's Health track was developed in collaboration between program leaders in Addiction Medicine and Obstetrics/Gynecology. Implementing the track led to the development of women-focused rotations and continuity clinics, as well as enrichment of women's health didactic education for all fellows. The fellowship track spurred interdepartmental mentorship and collaboration on research and advocacy projects. CONCLUSION Addiction medicine fellowships can replicate this curriculum model to advance women-focused education, research, and policy. Future curricula should focus on structural sexism in drug use and addiction treatment throughout a woman's life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordana Laks
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA ,grid.427661.00000 0000 9549 973XBoston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Boston, MA USA
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Sarah M. Bagley
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA ,grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
| | - Cecily M. Barber
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA ,grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
| | - Jessie M. Gaeta
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA ,grid.427661.00000 0000 9549 973XBoston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Boston, MA USA
| | - Linda A. Neville
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Alyssa F. Peterkin
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Emily Rosenthal
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
| | - Kelley A. Saia
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA
| | - Zoe M. Weinstein
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Miriam T. H. Harris
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Section of General Internal Medicine, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
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13
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Ugarte A, de la Mora L, García D, Martínez-Rebollar M, de Lazzari E, Torres B, Inciarte A, Ambrosioni J, Chivite I, Solbes E, de Loredo N, Del Carlo GF, González-Cordón A, Blanco JL, Martínez E, Mallolas J, Laguno M. Evolution of Risk Behaviors, Sexually Transmitted Infections and PrEP Care Continuum in a Hospital-Based PrEP Program in Barcelona, Spain: A Descriptive Study of the First 2 Years' Experience. Infect Dis Ther 2022; 12:425-442. [PMID: 36520330 PMCID: PMC9753893 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-022-00733-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective for HIV prevention, but the PrEP care continuum also involves improving PrEP awareness, uptake, adherence, and retention in care. Users' awareness is often compromised because of vulnerability factors and risk behaviors, such as chemsex practice or specific substance use, which could lead to risk compensation. Correct adherence and retention in care are essential to achieve the full effectiveness of PrEP. This study describes changes in users' risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well also PrEP care continuum details. METHODS This was a descriptive single-center retrospective study including adults at high HIV risk screened between November 2019 and June 2021 in the PrEP program of our hospital. Demographic, behavioral, STI, adherence, and retention in care variables were assessed. Data were collected from medical records and self-report questionnaires. RESULTS A total of 295 people were included, 94% men and 5% transgender women, with a mean age of 34 years (SD 10) and 10% sex workers. At baseline, 55% disclosed chemsex practice and 3% slamming. During follow-up, condom use for anal intercourse decreased from 41% to 13% (p ≤ 0.0001) and one HIV infection was detected; other risk behaviors and STIs remained stable. Chemsex, group sex, fluid exchange, and condomless anal intercourse were related to STI risk. Adherence was correct in 80% of users, and retention in care was 57%. Discontinuations and loss to follow-up were high, mainly affecting transgender women, sex workers, and people practicing fisting. CONCLUSION PrEP program implementation in our hospital was adequate, since it allowed, in a population at high HIV risk, overall users' risk behaviors and STIs to remain stable, with only one HIV diagnosis during the follow-up. We should target specific strategies to improve adherence and retention in care, as vulnerable subgroups at higher risk of loss to follow-up are identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainoa Ugarte
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Lorena de la Mora
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - David García
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez-Rebollar
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisa de Lazzari
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Berta Torres
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexy Inciarte
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Ambrosioni
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iván Chivite
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estela Solbes
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nicolás de Loredo
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillermo Federico Del Carlo
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana González-Cordón
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Luis Blanco
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteban Martínez
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Mallolas
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Laguno
- Infectious Diseases Department, HIV/AIDS Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Villarroel Street 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Jain JP, Sheira LA, Frongillo EA, Neilands TB, Cohen MH, Wilson TE, Chandran A, Adimora AA, Kassaye SG, Sheth AN, Fischl MA, Adedimeji AA, Turan JM, Tien PC, Weiser SD, Conroy AA. Mechanisms linking gender-based violence to worse HIV treatment and care outcomes among women in the United States. AIDS 2022; 36:1861-1869. [PMID: 35950940 PMCID: PMC9529878 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test whether substance use mediates the associations between gender-based violence (GBV) and suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), and GBV and poor engagement in care, among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in the United States (US). DESIGN We analyzed longitudinal data collected among 1717 WLHIV in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). METHODS From 2013 to 2017, WLHIV completed semi-annual assessments on GBV, substance use, and HIV treatment and care. Adjusted multilevel logistic regression models were built to estimate the impact of GBV on; suboptimal (<95%) adherence and at least one missed HIV care appointment without rescheduling in the past 6 months. Mediation analyses were performed to test whether heavy drinking and illicit drug use mediated the associations between GBV and the two HIV outcomes. RESULTS The mean age was 47 (standard deviation = 9), 5% reported experiencing GBV, 17% reported suboptimal adherence and 15% reported at least one missed appointment in the past 6 months. Women who experienced GBV had a significantly higher odds of suboptimal adherence [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.99; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.40-2.83] and missed appointments (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.32-2.33). Heavy drinking and illicit drug use mediated 36 and 73% of the association between GBV and suboptimal adherence and 29 and 65% of the association between GBV and missed appointments, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Substance use is an underlying mechanism through which GBV affects outcomes along the HIV care continuum among WLHIV in the US. To optimize HIV treatment and care among women, interventions should address the combined epidemics of substance use, violence, and HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lila A Sheira
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Torsten B Neilands
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Mardge H Cohen
- Department of Medicine, Stroger Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Tracey E Wilson
- Department of Community Health Sciences, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, School of Public Health, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Aruna Chandran
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Adaora A Adimora
- School of Medicine and UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Seble G Kassaye
- Department of Family Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Anandi N Sheth
- School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, and Grady Health System, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Adebola A Adedimeji
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Janet M Turan
- Department of Healthcare Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Phyllis C Tien
- Department of Medicine, UCSF and Medical Service, Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sheri D Weiser
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Amy A Conroy
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco
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Khan AR, Olatunji O, Qureshi D, Metellus P, Nkemjika S. Accessibility of Treatment Among Women With Opioid Use Disorder: A Brief Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e27509. [PMID: 36060319 PMCID: PMC9426717 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.27509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid-use disorder (OUD) has become a social pandemic with a rising incidence and prevalence among women. Notably, women with OUD were more likely to have psychiatric comorbidities like major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. Evidence suggests that opioid exposure and subsequent disease among women compared to men is unique and attributable to hormonal estrogen levels. However, there remains a dearth of literature on their ability to access treatment when needed. There is also a gap in the perceived access to women as compared to men. Hence, our review will focus on factors that may affect women from seeking OUD treatment as compared to men.
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16
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Li X, Sullivan P, Broz D, Handanagic S. Association Between Dual Partnership and Sexual and Injecting Behaviors Among Persons Who Inject Drugs in 23 US Cities, 2018. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:2667-2678. [PMID: 35704143 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02323-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Persons who inject drugs (PWID) engaging in receptive syringe sharing with their sex partner (dual partnership) may have different behavior patterns than people who have only sex or syringe sharing partnerships. PWID from 23 US cities were recruited for the National HIV Behavioral Surveillance in 2018 using respondent-driven sampling, interviewed, and tested for HIV. Log-linked Poisson regression was conducted to examine the associations between injecting and sexual behaviors and dual partnership. A total of 3435 PWID reported receptive syringe sharing and 42% engaged in dual partnership with their last sharing injecting partner. PWID who reported condomless vaginal or anal sex at last sex were more likely to engage in dual partnership (aPR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.65-2.08). PWID who reported having two or more sex partners (aPR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.62-0.72) or two or more sharing injecting partners (aPR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.50-0.59) were less likely to engage in dual partnership. Findings suggest opportunities for tailored prevention intervention, including couple-based HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis, and access to syringe services programs coupled with safer injection education to help reduce HIV risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Li
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, MS US8-4, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA.
| | - Patrick Sullivan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dita Broz
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, MS US8-4, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Senad Handanagic
- Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, MS US8-4, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
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Plasma Virome Reveals Blooms and Transmission of Anellovirus in Intravenous Drug Users with HIV-1, HCV, and/or HBV Infections. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0144722. [PMID: 35758682 PMCID: PMC9431549 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01447-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravenous drug users (IDUs) are a high-risk group for HIV-1, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections, which are the leading causes of death in IDUs. However, the plasma virome of IDUs and how it is influenced by above viral infections remain unclear. Using viral metagenomics, we determined the plasma virome of IDUs and its association with HIV-1, HCV, and/or HBV infections. Compared with healthy individuals, IDUs especially those with major viral infections had higher viral abundance and diversity. Anelloviridae dominated plasma virome. Coinfections of multiple anelloviruses were common, and anelloviruses from the same genus tended to coexist together. In this study, 4,487 anellovirus ORF1 sequences were identified, including 1,620 (36.1%) with less than 69% identity to any known sequences, which tripled the current number. Compared with healthy controls (HC), more anellovirus sequences were observed in neg-IDUs, and HIV-1, HCV, and/or HBV infections further expanded the sequence number in IDUs, which was characterized by the emergence of novel divergent taxons and blooms of resident anelloviruses. Pegivirus was mainly identified in infected IDUs. Five main pegivirus transmission clusters (TCs) were identified by phylogenetic analysis, suggesting a transmission link. Similar anellovirus profiles were observed in IDUs within the same TC, suggesting transmission of anellome among IDUs. Our data suggested that IDUs suffered higher plasma viral burden especially anelloviruses, which was associated with HIV-1, HCV, and/or HBV infections. Blooms in abundance and unprecedented diversity of anellovirus highlighted active evolution and replication of this virus in blood circulation, and an uncharacterized role it may engage with the host. IMPORTANCE Virome is associated with immune status and determines or influences disease progression through both pathogenic and resident viruses. Increased viral burden in IDUs especially those with major viral infections indicated the suboptimal immune status and high infection risks of these population. Blooms in abundance and unprecedented diversity of anellovirus highlighted its active evolution and replication in the blood circulation, and sensitive response to other viral infections. In addition, transmission cluster analysis revealed the transmission link of pegivirus among IDUs, and the individuals with transmission links shared similar anellome profiles. In-depth monitoring of the plasma virome in high-risk populations is not only needed for surveillance for emerging viruses and transmission networks of major and neglected bloodborne viruses, but also important for a better understanding of commensal viruses and their role it may engage with immune system.
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Silberg C, Likindikoki S, Mbwambo J, Mmari K, Saleem HT. Housing instability and violence among women who use drugs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:68. [PMID: 35761376 PMCID: PMC9237973 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00649-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who use heroin and other drugs (WWUD) are a key population with elevated risk of physical and sexual violence perpetrated by intimate partners and non-partners. While housing instability has been shown to be associated with violence in high-income settings, this is an underexplored topic in sub-Saharan Africa. In this research, we aimed to assess the relationship between housing instability and various forms of violence within a sample of WWUD in Dar es Salaam. METHODS This analysis uses data from a parent study from 2018. A total of 200 WWUD were recruited through respondent-driven sampling methods and administered a survey. Two multivariable logistic regression models were built to assess the relationship between housing instability and physical violence (Model 1) and housing instability and sexual violence (Model 2) while controlling for a number of sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS Approximately 35% of participants were classified as housing unstable. More than half of participants (62%) reported experiencing physical violence in the past 12 months, and more than a third (36%) reported sexual violence in the same time period. Housing instability was found to be independently associated with both physical and sexual violence victimization in the past year when adjusting for covariates (Model 1 adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.40, 95% CI 1.22-4.46; Model 2 AOR: 1.93. 95% CI 1.02-3.67). CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this is the first study to document a significant association between housing instability and violence among WWUD communities in sub-Saharan Africa. This analysis adds to the growing body of literature on the relationship between stable housing and livelihood and health outcomes across differing populations. The cyclical nature of housing instability and violence may be disrupted through housing programming that provides safety, security, and stability for WWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Silberg
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Samuel Likindikoki
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65015, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania ,grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jessie Mbwambo
- grid.25867.3e0000 0001 1481 7466Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kristin Mmari
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Haneefa T. Saleem
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Room E5033, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Tran NK, Van Der Pol B, Shrestha R, Bazzi AR, Bellamy SL, Sherman SG, Roth AM. Limited Risk Compensation Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Results From the Project Sexual Health Equity Preexposure Prophylaxis Demonstration Study in Philadelphia. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:e64-e66. [PMID: 34694276 PMCID: PMC9018480 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The impact of preexposure prophylaxis uptake on sexual and injection-related behaviors among women who inject drugs is poorly understood. Over 24 weeks, preexposure prophylaxis uptake among women who inject drugs was associated with increased sharing of injection equipment but not syringes and no changes in condomless sex, providing limited evidence of risk compensation in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen K. Tran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Division of Infectious Disease, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Roman Shrestha
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Angela R. Bazzi
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scarlett L. Bellamy
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alexis M. Roth
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Meyers-Pantele SA, Jain S, Sun X, Marks C, DeBeck K, Hayashi K, Strathdee SA, Werb D. Gender and the first-time provision of injection initiation assistance among people who inject drugs across two distinct North American contexts: Tijuana, Mexico and Vancouver, Canada. Drug Alcohol Rev 2022; 41:686-696. [PMID: 34636100 PMCID: PMC8930605 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Injection drug use initiation is commonly facilitated by other people who inject drugs (PWID). We investigated how the gender of PWID influences their risk of providing initiation assistance to others across two distinct geo-cultural settings. METHODS Data were drawn from two prospective cohorts in Tijuana, Mexico and Vancouver, Canada which conducted semi-annual interviews within the PReventing Injecting by Modifying Existing Responses (PRIMER) study. Participants consisted of PWID who had reported never providing injection initiation assistance at baseline. We then conducted site-specific discrete-time survival analyses assessing the relationship between gender and other relevant covariates (e.g. age and past 6-month sex work) on the risk of the first reported instance of providing initiation assistance. RESULTS Of 1988 PWID (Tijuana: n = 596; Vancouver: n = 1392), 256 (43%) and 511 (36.7%) participants were women, and 42 (1.7%) and 78 (1.6%) reported recent injection initiation assistance across a median of three and two follow-up visits, respectively. Women had a lower risk of providing injection initiation assistance for the first time in Tijuana (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% confidence interval 0.27-0.99), but not in Vancouver. Gendered pathways, like sex work, were associated with providing initiation assistance for the first time in Vancouver (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.97, 95% confidence interval 1.08-3.61). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Women in Tijuana, but not Vancouver, were less likely to provide first-time initiation assistance among PWID. These results can inform gender- and site-specific prevention efforts aimed at reducing transitions into drug injecting across geographic contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A. Meyers-Pantele
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, USA,Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Sonia Jain
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Xiaoying Sun
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Charles Marks
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA,School of Public Health, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Steffanie A. Strathdee
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Dan Werb
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, USA,Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Canada
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21
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES As opioid use increases, it remains important to assess factors that contribute to injection drug risk behaviors, as sharing needles and other drug use equipment contributes to the spread of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus. Such risks may differ by sex and injecting with others. The current study examined factors that contribute to increased injection drug risk separately for men and women. METHODS People who inject drugs were recruited at an academic safety-net hospital that reported recent injection drug use. Two main injection outcomes were assessed: (1) human immunodeficiency virus drug risk behaviors as assessed by the Risk Assessment Battery and (2) the number of times participants injected drugs with a needle used by someone else. For each outcome, different models for women and men were conducted to detect differences by sex. RESULTS Both men and women were more likely to inject with a needle used by someone else if they used drugs within a sexual relationship (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 14.61, P < 0.01; IRR = 7.17, P < 0.05). Being employed was associated with lower risk assessment battery scores among men, and lower mean rates of using a needle used by someone else among women (IRR = 0.22, P < 0.05). Women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and men with higher depression scores had higher rates of injecting with a needle used by someone else. CONCLUSIONS People who inject drugs who are in intimate relationships report higher injection drug risk behaviors. We found benefits to employment among both men and women. Identifying factors associated with increased injection risk behaviors can be useful for creating interventions tailored by sex.
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Mehendale S, Arumugam E, Aridoss S, David J, Jaganathasamy N, Balasubramanian G, Natesan M, Mathiyazhakan M, Padmapriya VM, Kumar P, Rajan S. Injecting drug use & HIV prevalence among female sex workers: Evidence from the National Integrated Biological & Behavioural Surveillance, India. Indian J Med Res 2022; 155:413-422. [DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_2932_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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23
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Stewart A, West BS, Rafful C, Lazos K, Jain J, Gonzalez-Zuniga P, Rocha-Jimenez T. "I would rather do it myself": injection initiation and current injection patterns among women who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:105. [PMID: 34645473 PMCID: PMC8513336 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who inject drugs (WWID) experience unique risks and adverse health outcomes related to injection initiation and patterns of injection drug use. However, there is limited information on injection initiation experiences and injection patterns among women and the protective strategies employed to limit injection-related harms, especially in low- and middle-income settings. Therefore, this study sought to explore injection initiation and current injection patterns (e.g., relying on someone else to inject) among women who inject drugs and engage in sex work in Tijuana, Mexico. METHODS Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 30 WWID on the following topics: injection initiation, current injection patterns, places where women inject, and protective strategies (i.e., risk reduction). All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and de-identified. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted to identify and compare common themes and patterns across participants. RESULTS The interviews revealed that the vast majority of study participants were first initiated by another person who injects drugs (PWID), often a male sexual partner. However, the majority of the women transitioned to become self-injectors in order to avoid risks associated with relying on others for injection, including overdose, interpersonal violence, sexual abuse, and wounds. Those who relied on others indicated that they would prefer to inject themselves without assistance from others if they were able to. CONCLUSIONS The narratives uncovered in this study reveal the importance of multiple risk environments in shaping perceived risks associated with injection drug use among women in Tijuana, Mexico. Specifically, the interviews elucidate the connection between interpersonal relationships with other PWID and protective strategies used to minimize risk and harm. These findings highlight the need for women-centered harm reduction programs to facilitate the development of safer drug use environments among WWID in Tijuana, Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Stewart
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brooke S West
- Columbia University School of Social Work, New York, NY, USA
| | - Claudia Rafful
- Faculty of Psychology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
- Center on Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Jennifer Jain
- Division of Infectious Diseases of Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Patricia Gonzalez-Zuniga
- Wound Clinic Tijuana, Tijuana, Mexico
- Division of Infectious Diseases of Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Teresita Rocha-Jimenez
- Division of Infectious Diseases of Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Society and Health Research Center, Faculty of Humanities, Universidad Mayor, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
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24
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Wise A, Kianian B, Chang H, Linton S, Wolfe ME, Smith J, Tempalski B, Des Jarlais D, Ross Z, Semaan S, Wejnert C, Broz D, Cooper H. Place-Based Correlates of Exchange Sex Among People Who Inject Drugs in 19 U.S. Metropolitan Areas, 2012. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2897-2909. [PMID: 33796991 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01883-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study examined overall and gender-specific associations between place-based characteristics and opposite-sex exchange sex among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the U.S. PWID were recruited from 19 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2012 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance. Administrative data were used to describe the economic, social, and political features of the ZIP codes, MSAs, counties, and states where PWID lived. Multilevel modeling estimated associations of place characteristics and exchange sex. We found that 52% of women and 23% of men reported past-year opposite-sex exchange sex (N = 7599). Female PWID living in states with stronger policies supporting working caregivers had lower odds of exchange sex (aOR = 0.80; 95% CI 0.69, 0.94). PWID living in ZIP codes with greater economic deprivation had higher odds of exchange sex (aOR = 1.10; 95% CI 1.03, 1.17). We found that a high percentage of male PWID exchanged sex with women; determinants and risks of this group merit exploration. If future research establishes that the relationships identified here are causal, interventions to reduce exchange sex among PWID should include policies supporting working caregivers and reducing poverty rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akilah Wise
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, GCR 549, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Behzad Kianian
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Howard Chang
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sabriya Linton
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mary E Wolfe
- School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Justin Smith
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, GCR 549, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Barbara Tempalski
- Institute for Infectious Disease Research, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zev Ross
- ZevRoss Spatial Analysis, New York, NY, USA
| | - Salaam Semaan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cyprian Wejnert
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dita Broz
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hannah Cooper
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, 1518 Clifton Road NE, GCR 549, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Meyers SA, Earnshaw VA, D’Ambrosio B, Courchesne N, Werb D, Smith LR. The intersection of gender and drug use-related stigma: A mixed methods systematic review and synthesis of the literature. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 223:108706. [PMID: 33901753 PMCID: PMC8168566 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use-related stigma is a significant barrier to care among persons who use drugs (PWUD). Less is known regarding how intersectional identities, like gender, shape experiences of substance use-related stigma. We sought to answer the following question: Do men or women PWUD experience more drug use stigma? METHODS Data were drawn from a systematic review of the global, peer-reviewed scientific literature on substance use-related stigma conducted through 2017 and guided by the Stigma and Substance Use Process Model and PRISMA guidelines. Articles were included in the present analysis if they either qualitatively illustrated themes related to the gendered nature of drug use-related stigma, or quantitatively tested the moderating effect of gender on drug use-related stigma. RESULTS Of the 75 studies included, 40 (53 %) were quantitative and 35 (47 %) were qualitative. Of the quantitative articles, 22 (55 %) found no association between gender and drug use-related stigma, 4 (10 %) identified women who use drugs (WWUD) were more stigmatized, and 2 (5 %) determined men who use drugs (MWUD) were more stigmatized. In contrast, nearly all (34; 97 %) of the qualitative articles demonstrated WWUD experienced greater levels of drug use-related stigma. CONCLUSION The quantitative literature is equivocal regarding the influence of gender on drug use-related stigma, but the qualitative literature more clearly demonstrates WWUD experience greater levels of stigma. The use of validated drug use-related stigma measures and the tailoring of stigma scales to WWUD are needed to understand the role of stigma in heightening the disproportionate harms experienced by WWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. A. Meyers
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, 5500
Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, USA,Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health,
Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla,
CA 92093, USA
| | - V. A. Earnshaw
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware,
Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - B. D’Ambrosio
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health,
Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla,
CA 92093, USA,School of Social Work, College of Health and Human Services,
San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - N. Courchesne
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego,
9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - D. Werb
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health,
Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla,
CA 92093, USA,Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael’s
Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8 Canada
| | - L. R. Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health,
Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla,
CA 92093, USA
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Wang M, Lim SH, Gibson BA, Azwa I, Guadamuz TE, Altice FL, Kamarulzaman A, Wickersham JA. Correlates of newly diagnosed HIV infection among cisgender women sex workers and transgender women sex workers in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Int J STD AIDS 2021; 32:609-619. [PMID: 33752518 DOI: 10.1177/0956462420970417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Globally, cisgender women sex workers (CWSWs) and transgender women sex workers (TWSWs) experience increased vulnerabilities to HIV infection. Unfortunately, there is limited data on the drivers of HIV infection in these two understudied populations, particularly in Southeast Asia. To better understand factors associated with HIV infection, we evaluated correlates of newly diagnosed HIV infection in these two populations in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A total of 469 women (CWSW: n = 283; TWSW: n = 186) were included in this study. Most participants who tested HIV+ were unaware of their infection (59.6%; n = 34/57). Separate binary and multivariable logistic regressions were conducted to identify correlates of newly diagnosed HIV in CWSWs and TWSWs. Among CWSWs, Chlamydia trachomatis (aOR = 5.66; p = 0.007) and lifetime use of ecstasy/MDMA (aOR = 5.34; p = 0.03) were associated with newly diagnosed HIV, while condomless vaginal sex with clients was associated with lower likelihood of HIV infection (aOR = 0.98; p = 0.01). Among TWSWs, being single (aOR = 6.76; p = 0.03), using mobile application to solicit clients (aOR = 25.33; p = 0.006), and having C. trachomatis infection (aOR = 88.22, p = 0.02) were associated with newly diagnosed HIV. Expansion of HIV/sexually transmitted infection screening is needed to increase detection of HIV and linkage to care for sex workers. Interventions to reduce HIV infection among CWSWs and TWSWs should be tailored to these populations' unique vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sin How Lim
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Britton A Gibson
- Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, 472529Quinnipiac University, North Haven, CT, USA
| | - Iskandar Azwa
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Faculty of Medicine, 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Thomas E Guadamuz
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 26685Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Adeeba Kamarulzaman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jeffrey A Wickersham
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, 12228Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), 37447University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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"A good mother": Impact of motherhood identity on women's substance use and engagement in treatment across the lifespan. J Subst Abuse Treat 2021; 130:108474. [PMID: 34118710 PMCID: PMC8478714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women are underrepresented in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Interpersonal and structural factors affect women's access to SUD treatment, but limited research evaluates how motherhood is a potential barrier and facilitator to engagement in SUD treatment. We focus on women from young to middle adulthood, and capture women's identities as mothers, caretakers, and grandmothers, outside of pregnancy and the postpartum period. METHODS Study staff conducted twenty qualitative interviews with women in SUD treatment to assess experiences with SUD treatment, in which motherhood emerged as a key theme. Twelve women then participated in four focus groups centered on motherhood. The study audio-recorded and transcribed interviews, and two independent authors analyzed interviews, followed by group consensus. RESULTS Most women identified their children and responsibilities as mothers and caretakers as important motivators to accessing SUD treatment. Motherhood was also a barrier to treatment, in that women feared losing child custody by disclosing substance use and few residential programs accommodate women with children. Multiple women expressed guilt about their substance use, sensing that it contributed to perceived abandonment or separation from their children. Reunification was important to SUD recovery. CONCLUSION Women with SUD who are mothers experience specific barriers to treatment engagement and recovery. Women need SUD treatment programs that address these interpersonal and structural factors across the lifespan.
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HIV incidence and associated risk factors in female spouses of men who inject drugs in Pakistan. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:51. [PMID: 33964932 PMCID: PMC8106847 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00497-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Female sexual partners of men who inject drugs (MWID) living with HIV are at risk of HIV transmission. HIV prevalence estimates among non-drug using female sex partners of MWID are scarce, with no studies documenting HIV incidence. We investigated HIV prevalence and incidence among female spouses of MWID registered at Nai Zindagi Trust (NZT), Pakistan, between 2012 and 2019. Methods NZT registration and service provision data for female spouses who participated in HIV testing and counselling calculated HIV prevalence and incidence using the person years (PY) method. Cox proportional hazards models identified factors associated with incident infection. Results Overall HIV prevalence among female spouses of MWID was 8.5%. Among 3478 HIV-negative female spouses, 109 incident infections were observed, yielding an incidence rate of 1.5/100PY (95% CI 1.2–1.8). Independent predictors of incident infection were registration in Punjab province (AHR 1.73 95% CI 1.13–2.68, p = 0.012) and 1–5 years of education (AHR 1.89 95% CI 1.22–2.93, p = 0.004). Knowledge of HIV at registration was protective against infection (AHR 0.51, 95% CI 0.26–0.99, p = 0.047), along with a MWID spouse who had initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) (AHR 0.25, 95% CI 0.16–0.38, p < 0.001), while incident infection was inversely associated with number of children (≥ 5 children AHR 0.44 95% CI 0.22–0.88, p = 0.022). Conclusions Additional efforts are needed to reduce HIV transmission among female spouses of MWID, including targeted provision of HIV education and access to HIV screening. Interventions that target MWID are also required, including evidence-based drug treatment and access to ART, including support to maximize adherence. Finally, consideration should be given to making HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis available to female spouses at high risk of HIV transmission, particularly young women and those whose husbands are not receiving, or have difficulty adhering to, ART.
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El‐Bassel N, McCrimmon T, Mergenova G, Chang M, Terlikbayeva A, Primbetova S, Kuskulov A, Baiserkin B, Denebayeva A, Kurmetova K, Witte SS. A cluster-randomized controlled trial of a combination HIV risk reduction and microfinance intervention for female sex workers who use drugs in Kazakhstan. J Int AIDS Soc 2021; 24:e25682. [PMID: 33955170 PMCID: PMC8100396 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Female sex workers (FSW) who use drugs are a key population at risk of HIV in Kazakhstan, and face multiple structural barriers to HIV prevention. More research is needed on the role of structural interventions such as microfinance (MF) in reducing HIV risk. This paper describes the results of a cluster-randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of a combination HIVRR + MF intervention in reducing biologically confirmed STIs and HIV risk behaviours. METHODS This study took place from May 2015 to October 2018 in two cities in Kazakhstan. We screened 763 participants for eligibility and enrolled 354 FSW who use drugs. Participants were randomized in cohorts to receive either a four-session HIVRR intervention, or that same intervention plus 30 additional sessions of financial literacy training, vocational training and asset-building through a matched-savings programme. Repeated behavioural and biological assessments were conducted at baseline, 3-, 6- and 12-months post-intervention. Biological and behavioural primary outcomes included HIV/STI incidence, sexual risk behaviours and drug use risk behaviours, evaluated over the 12-month period. RESULTS Over the 12-month follow-up period, few differences in study outcomes were noted between arms. There was only one newly-detected HIV case, and study arms did not significantly differ on any STI incidence. At post-intervention assessments compared to baseline, both HIVRR and HIVRR + MF participants significantly reduced sexual and drug use risk behaviours, and showed improvements in financial outcomes, condom use attitudes and self-efficacy, social support, and access to medical care. In addition, HIVRR + MF participants showed a 72% greater reduction in the number of unprotected sex acts with paying partners at the six-month assessment (IRR = IRR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.08, 0.92), and a 10% greater reduction in the proportion of income from sex work at the three-month assessment (b = -0.10, 95% CI = -0.17, -0.02) than HIVRR participants did. HIVRR + MF participants also showed significantly improved performance on financial self-efficacy compared to HIVRR over the 12-month follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS Compared to a combination HIVRR + MF intervention, a robust HIVRR intervention alone may be sufficient to reduce sexual and drug risk behaviours among FSW who use drugs. There may be structural limitations to the promise of microfinance for HIV risk reduction among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabila El‐Bassel
- Global Health Research Center of Central AsiaColumbia University School of Social WorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Tara McCrimmon
- Global Health Research Center of Central AsiaColumbia University School of Social WorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | - Mingway Chang
- Global Health Research Center of Central AsiaColumbia University School of Social WorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | | | | | - Bauyrzhan Baiserkin
- Kazakh Scientific Center for Dermatology and Infectious DiseasesAlmatyKazakhstan
| | - Alfiya Denebayeva
- Almaty City Center of the Prevention and Control of AIDSAlmatyKazakhstan
| | - Kulpan Kurmetova
- Temirtau BranchKaraganda Oblast Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDSTemirtauKazakhstan
| | - Susan S. Witte
- Global Health Research Center of Central AsiaColumbia University School of Social WorkNew YorkNYUSA
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Tavakoli F, Khezri M, Tam M, Bazrafshan A, Sharifi H, Shokoohi M. Injection and non-injection drug use among female sex workers in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108655. [PMID: 33689969 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Illicit drug use is a prevalent risk behavior among female sex workers (FSWs) as it increases the vulnerability of this marginalized population to negative health outcomes, including HIV infection. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of injection and non-injection drug use among FSWs in Iran. METHODS Systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO (for English records), along with Iranian databases including IranMedex, Iran Psych Magiran, Scientific Information Database, and Irandoc (for Farsi records) were conducted for studies published from inception through to July 2020. We included quantitative studies on injection and non-injection drug use among FSWs. The pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of recent and lifetime drug injection and non-injection were estimated using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Of 458 screened records, 19 met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of recent non-injection drug use and injection drug use was 56.94% (95% CI: 44.68, 68.78) and 5.67% (95% CI: 2.09, 10.73), respectively. Opium (33.00%, 95% CI: 24.53, 42.05) and crystal methamphetamine (20.68%, 95% CI: 13.59, 28.79) were the most prevalent recent non-injection drugs used. Additionally, the pooled prevalence of lifetime non-injection drug use was 76.08% (95% CI: 66.81, 84.27) and injection drug use was 10.72% (95% CI: 7.02, 15.07). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows that drug use, both injection and non-injection, is prevalent among FSWs in Iran. These findings highlight the importance of evidence-based harm reduction and treatment programs to reduce the burdens of drug use and its associated potential consequences among these underserved women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tavakoli
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khezri
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Michelle Tam
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Azam Bazrafshan
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shokoohi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Meyer J, Price C, Tracey D, Sharpless L, Song Y, Madden L, Elwyn G, Altice F. Preference for and Efficacy of a PrEP Decision Aid for Women with Substance Use Disorders. Patient Prefer Adherence 2021; 15:1913-1927. [PMID: 34511887 PMCID: PMC8420782 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s315543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with substance use disorders (SUDs) are a key population for HIV prevention with pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), though uptake is limited by awareness of PrEP, misestimation of personal HIV risk, and minimally integrated HIV prevention and addiction treatment services. Patient-centered decision aids (DA) could address these barriers to PrEP, but no extant DA for PrEP has been published, including for women with SUDs. METHODS We developed a patient-centered PrEP DA for women in addiction treatment. In a pilot randomized preference trial, we compared the DA to enhanced standard of care (eSOC) providing standardized information. The primary outcome was opting to receive more information through the DA; we also assessed the impact of the DA on PrEP decisional preference and PrEP uptake over 12 months. RESULTS A total of 164 enrolled participants (DA: 83; eSOC: 81) were similar in terms of HIV risk and demographics, which are representative of women in addiction treatment programs nationally, and most (92%) had opioid use disorder. Half of participants were PrEP eligible, though 37% underestimated their personal HIV risk. Independent correlates of selecting the PrEP DA relative to eSOC included higher alcohol use severity (aOR 4.13, 95% CI 1.05-16.28, p=0.04) and perception of high risk for HIV (aOR 2.95, 95% CI 1.19-7.35, p=0.02). For those selecting the DA, interest in PrEP increased significantly from 25% to 89%. DA participants were also significantly more likely than eSOC participants to see a provider for PrEP during follow-up (15.7% vs 6.2%; p=0.05). CONCLUSION Half of the women selected to use the DA, and those who did significantly increased their engagement in the HIV prevention cascade through increased interest in and initiation of PrEP. Future iterations should accelerate the HIV prevention cascade for women with SUDs by integrating PrEP decision aids into existing addiction treatment services and actively linking women to PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie Meyer
- Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Correspondence: Jaimie Meyer Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USATel +203 737 6233Fax +203 737 4051 Email
| | - Carolina Price
- Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - DeShana Tracey
- Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Yue Song
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Lynn Madden
- Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
- APT Foundation, Inc., New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Glyn Elwyn
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Hanover, NH, USA
- Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Cochrane Institute for Primary Care and Public Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Frederick Altice
- Yale School of Medicine, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
- APT Foundation, Inc., New Haven, CT, USA
- Centre of Excellence on Research in AIDS (CERiA), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Karlsson N, Kåberg M, Berglund T, Hammarberg A, Widman L, Ekström AM. A prospective cohort study of risk behaviours, retention and loss to follow-up over 5 years among women and men in a needle exchange program in Stockholm, Sweden. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 90:103059. [PMID: 33360734 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.103059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Needle exchange programs (NEP) are important in reducing risk behaviours among people who inject drugs (PWID), also exposed to HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) through injecting drug use (IDU). Women (WWID) compared to men who inject drugs (MWID), are particularly vulnerable with complex needs, however less is known about their risk determinants and NEP outcomes. METHODS In an open prospective NEP cohort, 697 WWID and 2122 MWID were followed, 2013-2018. Self-reported socio/drug-related determinants for receptive injection (needle/syringe and paraphernalia) and sexual risk behaviours at enrolment, lost to follow-up (LTFU) and probability of retention, were assessed for both groups. Multivariable logistic regression (adjusted odds ratios, aOR) for enrolment and Poisson regression (adjusted incidence rate ratios, aIRR) for LTFU, were used. Cumulative NEP-retention probability was analysed using a six- and 12-month scenario. RESULTS At NEP enrolment, injection risk behaviours among WWID were associated with: younger age; homelessness; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in opioid substitution therapy (OST); history of custody and among MWID: lower education level; cohabitation; homelessness, being a tenant; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; history of being sectioned, HIV-negative and HCV-positive. Condomless sex among WWID was associated with: younger age; lower education-level; cohabitation; having a partner; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; being HIV-negative and HCV-positive and among MWID: younger age; married; cohabitation; having a partner; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; history of custody, prison and being HIV-negative. WWID had higher NEP-retention levels compared to MWID over time. Being LTFU among WWID was associated with being HIV-negative and reporting injection risk behaviours and among MWID, younger age, non-participation in OST, being HIV-negative and having protected sex. CONCLUSIONS Despite better NEP compliance among WWID, high injection and sexual risk behaviours in both gender-subgroups, especially in intimate relationships, suggests ongoing HCV and HIV-infection risks. Subgroup-variation in the NEP continuum of care warrants more gender-disaggregated research and tailoring gender-sensitive services may improve prevention, health and retention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Karlsson
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Public Health Analysis and Development, Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten), Solna, Sweden.
| | - Martin Kåberg
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Division of Infection and Dermatology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Needle Exchange, Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torsten Berglund
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Public Health Analysis and Development, Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten), Solna, Sweden
| | - Anders Hammarberg
- Stockholm Needle Exchange, Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Sweden
| | - Linnea Widman
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Mia Ekström
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Gonzalez C, Brouwer KC, Reed E, Nicholls MJ, Kim J, Gonzalez-Zuniga PE, Gaeta-Rivera A, Urada LA. Women Trading Sex in a U.S.-Mexico Border City: A Qualitative Study of the Barriers and Facilitators to Finding Community and Voice. SEXES 2020; 1:1-18. [PMID: 34386640 PMCID: PMC8357315 DOI: 10.3390/sexes1010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Poverty and income inequality can increase a woman's decision to engage in risky transactional sex, and may lead to unimaginable harms, such as violence, substance use, and human trafficking. This study examines the facilitators and barriers to finding community and voice among women trading sex in Tijuana, Mexico, and what factors, such as socio-structural support, violence, and substance use, may impact their potential to engage with others, including human service providers. Sixty qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with women trading sex in Tijuana, Mexico. Researchers met with participants for in-depth-face-to-face structured interviews. Data were coded using ATLAS.ti. Participants were aged 19-73 (mean: 37), 98% were of Mexican nationality, 90% reported trading sex independent of the control of others, with 58% identified as independent and street-based. Thirty percent of women trading sex reported substance use (excluding marijuana) and 20% reported injection drug use within 30 days. The majority reported no involvement in mobilization activities, but 85% expressed interest. However, barriers included stigma, cultural gender norms, partner violence, and privacy in regards to disclosure of sex trade involvement, moral conflict (revealing one's involvement in sex trade), involvement in substance use, human trafficking, and feeling powerless. Facilitators were having a safe space to meet, peer support, self-esteem, feeling heard, knowledge of rights, economic need to support families, and staying healthy. Findings imply the potential to go beyond mobilizing limited groups of women in the sex trade and instead involve whole community mobilization; that is, to reach and include the more vulnerable women (substance use, trafficked) in supportive services (social services, exit strategies, better healthcare opportunities, and/or education for healthcare providers to help break societal stigmas regarding women in the sex trade) and to change the status of women in society in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Gonzalez
- College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University School of Social Work, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
| | - Kimberly C. Brouwer
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Elizabeth Reed
- Division of Health Promotion and Behavioral Science, San Diego State University School of Public Health, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
- Center on Gender Equity and Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Melanie J. Nicholls
- College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University School of Social Work, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Kim
- Center for Justice and Reconciliation, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
| | | | - Andrés Gaeta-Rivera
- Instituto Chihuahuense de Salud Mental, 31000 Chihuahua, Mexico
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, 21289 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Lianne A. Urada
- College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University School of Social Work, San Diego, CA 92182, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Center on Gender Equity and Health, University of California, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Correspondence:
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Preventing HIV outbreaks among people who inject drugs in the United States: plus ça change, plus ça même chose. AIDS 2020; 34:1997-2005. [PMID: 32826391 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
: This editorial review covers current trends in the epidemiology of HIV among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States, including four recent HIV outbreaks. We discuss gaps in the prevention and treatment cascades for HIV and medications for opioid disorder and propose lessons learned to prevent future HIV outbreaks. Over the last decade, North America has been in the throes of a major opioid epidemic, due in part to over-prescribing of prescription opiates, followed by increasing availability of cheap heroin, synthetic opioids (e.g. fentanyl), and stimulants (e.g. methamphetamine). Historically, HIV infection among PWID in the US had predominantly affected communities who were older, urban and Black. More recently, the majority of these infections are among younger, rural or suburban and Caucasian PWID. All four HIV outbreaks were characterized by a high proportion of women who inject drugs and underlying socioeconomic drivers such as homelessness and poverty. We contend that the US response to the HIV epidemic among PWID has been fractured. A crucial lesson is that when evidence-based responses to HIV prevention are undermined or abandoned because of moral objections, untold humanitarian and financial costs on public health will ensue. Restructuring a path forward requires that evidence-based interventions be integrated and brought to scale while simultaneously addressing underlying structural drivers of HIV and related syndemics. Failing to do so will mean that HIV outbreaks among PWID and the communities they live in will continue to occur in a tragic and relentless cycle.
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Shirley-Beavan S, Roig A, Burke-Shyne N, Daniels C, Csak R. Women and barriers to harm reduction services: a literature review and initial findings from a qualitative study in Barcelona, Spain. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:78. [PMID: 33076931 PMCID: PMC7574529 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00429-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are an estimated 3.2 million women who inject drugs worldwide, constituting 20% of all people who inject drugs. The limited data that are available suggest that women who inject drugs are at greater risk of HIV and viral hepatitis acquisition than men who inject drugs. This increased vulnerability is a product of a range of environmental, social and individual factors affecting women, which also affect their ability to engage in health promoting services such as harm reduction. Methods The researchers undertook a narrative literature review examining access to harm reduction services for women who use drugs in Europe and conducted semi-structured focus groups with women who use drugs and harm reduction and prison health workers in Barcelona, Spain. Results Women who use drugs face multiple barriers to accessing harm reduction services. These include stigma, both in society in general and from health and harm reduction workers in prisons and in the community; gender-based violence and a lack of services that are equipped to address the interaction between drug use and experiences of violence; criminalisation in the form of legal barriers to access, arrest and harassment from law enforcement, and incarceration; and a lack of services focused on the specific needs of women, notably sexual and reproductive health services and childcare. In Barcelona, participants reported experiencing all these barriers, and that their engagement with the Metzineres harm reduction centre had to some extent mitigated them. However, women continued to experience structural barriers to harm reduction service access. Conclusions Women and gender non-conforming people who use drugs face unique barriers to accessing harm reduction services. While services such as Metzineres can be life changing and life affirming for its members, it is incumbent on states to act to address the structural barriers to health faced by women who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aura Roig
- Metzineres. Environments of Shelter for Womxn Who Use Drugs Surviving Violence, c/o ICEERS, Carrer de Sepúlveda, 65, Oficina 2, 08015, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Colleen Daniels
- Harm Reduction International, 61 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AN, UK
| | - Robert Csak
- Harm Reduction International, 61 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AN, UK
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Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE, Serota DP, Behrends CN, Forrest DW, Feaster DJ. Impact of routine opt-out HIV/HCV screening on testing uptake at a syringe services program: An interrupted time series analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 84:102875. [PMID: 32731112 PMCID: PMC8814936 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most common infectious disease among people who inject drugs (PWID). Engaging PWID in harm reduction services, such as syringe service programs (SSPs), is critical to reduce HCV and HIV transmission. Additionally, testing for HIV and HCV among PWID is important to improve diagnosis and linkage to care. On March 1, 2018, Florida's only legal SSP implemented bundled opt-out HIV/HCV testing at enrollment. We aimed to examine the differences in HIV/HCV testing uptake before and after the implementation of the opt-out testing policy. METHODS Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess predictors of accepting HIV/HCV tests, controlling for opt-in and opt-out policy. Monthly estimates of the percent of participants accepting an HIV test, HCV test, or both were generated. Interrupted Time Series (ITS) analysis evaluated the immediate policy impact on level of uptake and trend in uptake over time for bundled HIV/HCV testing before and after the opt-out testing policy. RESULTS The total study period was 37 months between December 2016-January 2020 with 512 SSP participants 15 months prior and 547 SSP participants 22 months after implementation of bundled HIV/HCV opt-out testing. Significant predictors of accepting both HIV/HCV tests were cocaine injection (aOR = 2.36), self-reported HIV positive status (aOR = 0.39) and self-reported HCV positive status (aOR = 0.27). Based on the ITS results, there was a significant increase in uptake of HIV/HCV testing by 42.4% (95% CI: 26.2%-58.5%, p < 0.001) immediately after the policy change to opt-out testing. CONCLUSION Bundled opt-out HIV/HCV testing substantially increased the percentage of SSP clients who received HIV and HCV rapid tests at enrollment into the program, and the effect remained stable across the 22 months post opt-out testing policy. Future investigation must assess PWID-level perspective of testing preferences and examine whether this testing approach improves HIV/HCV detection among PWID previously unaware of their status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Bartholomew
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David P Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Czarina N Behrends
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Anthropology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Jain JP, Abramovitz D, Strathdee SA, Gonzalez-Zuniga P, Rangel G, West BS, Pitpitan EV. Sex Work as a Mediator Between Female Gender and Incident HIV Infection Among People Who Inject Drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:2720-2731. [PMID: 32185596 PMCID: PMC7453791 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-020-02828-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We studied mechanisms driving gender differences in HIV incidence among 651 women and men who inject drugs (PWID) in Tijuana, Mexico, hypothesizing that sex work will mediate the association between female gender and HIV incidence. Of 43 HIV seroconversions occurring between 2011 and 2018, 8.8% were among females and 5.2% among males. HIV incidence density was significantly higher among females versus males (1.75 per 100 person years [PY], 95% CI 1.16-2.66, vs. 0.95 per 100 PY, 95% CI 0.62-1.47). Factors significantly associated with HIV seroconversion were: sex work (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.25, 95% CI 1.05-4.80); methamphetamine injection (aHR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.12-4.73); and methamphetamine and heroin co-injection in the past six months (aHR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.23-4.15). In mediation analyses, sex work mediated a substantial proportion (84.3%) of the association between female gender and HIV incidence. Interventions should target female PWID who engage in sex work to reduce gender-related disparities in HIV incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P Jain
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA.
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Gudelia Rangel
- United States-Mexico Border Health Commission and El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Mexico
- El Colegio de La Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Mexico
| | - Brooke S West
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, United States
| | - Eileen V Pitpitan
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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Mitchell MM, Gryczynski J, Mitchell SG, Kelly SM, O'Grady KE, Monico LB, Schwartz RP. A Latent Class Analysis of HIV Risk Factors Among Men and Women with Opioid Use Disorder in Pre-trial Detention. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:1776-1783. [PMID: 31748939 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02726-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Adults entering pre-trial detention who inject drugs are at high risk for acquiring HIV/AIDS. In the current study, we examined pre-incarceration HIV risk behaviors among 114 people with opioid use disorder who inject drugs. Participants were recruited from the Baltimore City Detention Center as part of a randomized controlled trial of pre-release methadone treatment. Using latent class analysis, we found three separate latent classes, which we identified as the sex exchange class (14.2%), drug equipment sharing class (36.8%) and lower risk class (49.0%). Women in the sex exchange class (n = 16) reported having multiple male partners and selling sex for money or drugs; however, this group also reported more consistent condom use and less frequent injection drug and equipment sharing than participants in the drug equipment sharing class. Our findings highlight distinct profiles of jail detainees with OUD based on their risks for HIV, and could inform more targeted interventions for each group.Clinical Trials Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02334215.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Mitchell
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
| | - Jan Gryczynski
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Shannon G Mitchell
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Sharon M Kelly
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Kevin E O'Grady
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Laura B Monico
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Robert P Schwartz
- Friends Research Institute, 1040 Park Ave, Suite 103, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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Valencia J, Alvaro-Meca A, Troya J, Gutiérrez J, Ramón C, Rodríguez A, Vázquez-Morón S, Resino S, Moreno S, Ryan P. Gender-based vulnerability in women who inject drugs in a harm reduction setting. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230886. [PMID: 32226042 PMCID: PMC7105126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims In comparison with men, women who use drugs (WWUD) have considerably more frequent and intense experiences with interpersonal violence, sexual abuse and trauma. The aim of this study was to identify issues related to gender-based vulnerability in a group of WWUD attended in a harm reduction facility in Madrid, Spain. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted during a screening of blood borne infections. We included WWUD (smoked or injected heroin/cocaine) who were actively screened for HIV, HBV and HCV in a harm reduction setting in Madrid (Spain) from January to December 2017. WWUD were interviewed for gender-based abuse or violence using a face-to-face questionnaire by a trained interviewer. Aspects related to their social-epidemiological condition and gender-based vulnerability were collected. Results We included 109 women who were actively using drugs. The median age was 39 (IQR 35–47) years, 84.4% were Spanish born, 22.9% were homeless, 43 (41.7%) had ever used injected drugs, 29 (26.6%) were currently using injected drugs, and 27.1% had mental health disorders. Aspects related to gender-based vulnerability were collected. Among those surveyed, they reported having ever suffered emotional or psychological damage (88%), having experienced at least one incident of serious physical injury by a male partner (71%), and having ever suffered sexual abuse (49%). In addition, 28% had ever exchanged sex for money/drugs. When compared to women that did not use injecting drugs, those who injected drugs had more frequently exchanged sex for money/drugs (55% vs 21%, p = 0.003). Conclusions A high proportion of WWUD suffer psychological or physical violence by partners denoting gender-based vulnerability. Interventions in harm reduction settings with a multidisciplinary and gender-based approach should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Valencia
- Harm Reduction Unit “SMASD”; Subdirección General de Adicciones; SERMAS, Madrid, Spain
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Alejandro Alvaro-Meca
- Unit of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Troya
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Gutiérrez
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Ramón
- Non-Governmental Organization “Madrid Positivo”, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sonia Vázquez-Morón
- Fundación Estatal, Salud, Infancia y Bienestar Social (FCSAI), Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Viral Infection and Immunity, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Resino
- Unit of Viral Infection and Immunity, National Center for Microbiology, Institute of Health Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Moreno
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, IRYCIS, University of Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain
- Complutense de Madrid University (UCM), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
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Allen ST, White RH, O’Rourke A, Ahmad NJ, Hazelett T, Kilkenny ME, Sherman SG. Correlates of Transactional Sex Among a Rural Population of People Who Inject Drugs. AIDS Behav 2020; 24:775-781. [PMID: 31407213 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-019-02612-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, high rates of HIV infection among persons who engage in transactional sex are partially driven by substance use. Little is known about transactional sex among rural populations of people who inject drugs (PWID). Using data from a 2018 survey of 420 rural PWID in West Virginia, we used logistic regression to identify correlates of recent transactional sex (past 6 months). Most study participants were male (61.2%), white (83.6%), and reported having injected heroin (81.0%) in the past 6 months. Nearly one-fifth (18.3%) reported engaging in recent transactional sex. Independent correlates of transactional sex were: being female [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.90; 95% CI 2.12-7.16]; being a sexual minority (aOR 3.07; 95% CI 1.60-5.87); being single (aOR 3.22; 95% CI 1.73-6.01); receptive syringe sharing (aOR 3.13; 95% CI 1.73-5.66); and number of injections per day (aOR 1.08; 95% CI 1.01-1.15). Rural PWID who engage in transactional sex are characterized by multiple vulnerabilities that increase their HIV risk.
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Latent Classes of Sexual Risk Behavior and Engagement in Outreach, Intervention and Prevention Services Among Women Who Inject Drugs Across 20 US Cities. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 79:305-314. [PMID: 30044301 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring the effects of HIV prevention efforts among persons who inject drugs is key to informing prevention programs and policy. METHODS Data for this study came from the 2012 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance interviews with persons who inject drugs across 20 US cities. The present analyses include those who identified as female, ever had sex with a man, and were at risk of HIV infection (did not report a previous positive HIV test result) (n = 2624). We conducted latent class analysis to identify sexual risk classes, and modeled associations with engagement in HIV prevention services and HIV test results. RESULTS We identified 6 classes of sexual risk behavior: (1) low risk, (2) monogamous, (3) casual partner, (4) multiple partners, (5) exchange sex, and (6) exchange plus main partner. The class distribution was similar across the mainland regions. Bisexual orientation and homelessness were significant predictors of higher-risk class. HIV prevalence and participation in behavioral interventions did not vary significantly by risk class, while obtaining and using free condoms did. Independent of risk class, women in cities in the South were significantly less likely to use free condoms, and HIV prevalence was higher among non-Hispanic black women and women aged 40-49 years. CONCLUSIONS Bisexual orientation and homelessness were predictors of higher risk. Condom distribution programs reached fewer women in cities in the South. Race and age disparities in HIV-positive rates persisted after adjusting for sexual risk class.
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Park JN, Footer KH, Decker MR, Tomko C, Allen ST, Galai N, Sherman SG. Interpersonal and structural factors associated with receptive syringe-sharing among a prospective cohort of female sex workers who inject drugs. Addiction 2019; 114:1204-1213. [PMID: 30694587 PMCID: PMC6548574 DOI: 10.1111/add.14567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the interpersonal and structural factors associated with receptive syringe sharing (RSS) among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSW-IDU), a group at high risk of HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) acquisition. DESIGN Sex workers And Police Promoting Health In Risky Environments (SAPPHIRE) study, a prospective cohort study. SETTING Baltimore, MD, USA PARTICIPANTS: One hundred and eighty FSW-IDU; mean age = 33 years, 77.1% white and 62.9% in a relationship/married. MEASUREMENTS Surveys were conducted between April 2016 and February 2018. The main outcome was recent RSS (past 3 months). In addition to socio-demographic characteristics and drug use behaviors, we assessed factors at the interpersonal level, including injection practices, intimate partner and client drug use and exposure to violence. Structural-level factors included methods of syringe access. FINDINGS Nearly all FSW-IDU used heroin (97.1%) or crack cocaine (89.7%). Recent RSS was reported by 18.3%. Syringes were accessed from needle exchange programs (64.6%), pharmacies (29.7%), street sellers (30.3%) or personal networks (29.1%). Some FSW-IDU had clients or intimate partners who injected drugs (26.3 and 26.9%, respectively). Longitudinal factors independently associated with RSS in the multi-level mixed-effects model were recent client violence [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09-4.33], having an intimate partner who injected drugs (aOR = 2.18, 95% CI = 0.98-4.85), being injected by others (aOR = 4.95, 95% CI = 2.42-10.10) and obtaining syringes from a street seller (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI = 0.94-3.78) or from a member of their personal network (aOR = 4.43, 95% CI = 2.21-8.90). CONCLUSIONS Client violence, intimate partner injection drug use, being injected by others and obtaining syringes from personal connections appear to increase parenteral HIV/HCV risk among female sex workers who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore MD 21205, USA,Corresponding author
| | - Katherine H.A. Footer
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Michele R. Decker
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Catherine Tomko
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Sean T. Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
| | - Noya Galai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore MD 21205, USA,Department of Statistics, University of Haifa, Mt Carmel, Israel
| | - Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway, Baltimore MD 21205, USA,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore MD 21205, USA
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Mwangi C, Karanja S, Gachohi J, Wanjihia V, Ngang'a Z. Depression, injecting drug use, and risky sexual behavior syndemic among women who inject drugs in Kenya: a cross-sectional survey. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:35. [PMID: 31146748 PMCID: PMC6543607 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0307-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injecting drug use (IDU) is a key driver of the HIV epidemic particularly when individuals experience psychosocial conditions and risky sexual behavior in a syndemic manner. This study sets out to assess evidence of a syndemic pattern of psychosocial conditions (IDU, depression, intimate partner violence (IPV)) on one the hand and risky sexual behavior on the other while accounting for the socio-economic disadvantage among women who inject drugs (WWID) in low-income urban settings in Kenya. METHODS Using a cross-sectional study design, this study recruited 306 WWIDs from two sites in Nairobi between January 2017 and July 2017. Multiple methodologies including descriptive analyses of co-occurrences of psychosocial conditions at the individual level, standard logistic regression analyses to examine relationships and interactions within and between psychosocial conditions and risky sexual behavior, and classification trees algorithm for predictive modeling via machine learning were employed. RESULTS The prevalence of the psychosocial conditions was as follows: IDU, 88%; depression, 77.1%; and IPV, 84%. The prevalence of risky sexual behavior was 69.3%. IDU and depression were related to each other (P < 0.05) and each of them with risky sexual behavior (P < 0.05). The highest 2-way and 3-way co-occurrence of conditions were reported in IDU and depression (72%) and in IDU, depression, and risky sexual behavior (62%), respectively, indicating clustering of the conditions at the individual level. Further, each additional psychosocial condition (IDU and depression) was associated with sixfold odds (P = 0.000) of having risky sexual behavior suggesting a dose-response relationship. Logistic regression analyses incorporating multiplicative interactive effects returned three significant variables (P < 0.05): IDU*depression interaction effect, "Age when delivered the first child," and "Income." Classification tree modeling represented a 5-level interaction analysis with IDU and depression predicted to have the highest influence on risky sexual behavior. CONCLUSION Findings provide possible evidence of a syndemic pattern involving IDU, depression, and risky sexual behavior suggesting the need for an integrated approach to the implementation of harm reduction interventions among WWID in low-income urban settings in Kenya. This work highlights the need for further studies to authenticate the findings and to characterize pathways in the syndemic development in WWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Mwangi
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Juja, Kenya.,Partners for Health and Development in Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Simon Karanja
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Juja, Kenya
| | - John Gachohi
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Juja, Kenya. .,Washington State University - Global Health, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Violet Wanjihia
- Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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Lower HCV treatment uptake in women who have received opioid agonist therapy before and during the DAA era: The ANRS FANTASIO project. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:61-68. [PMID: 31129024 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the era of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, HCV treatment uptake remains insufficiently documented in key populations such as people with opioid dependence. Access to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is facilitated in France through delivery in primary care, and individuals with opioid dependence can be identified as those receiving OAT. Women with opioid dependence are especially vulnerable because of associated sex-related stigma, discrimination, and marginalization, all of which negatively interfere with access to HCV prevention and care. This study, based on data collected between 2012 and 2016 in France, aimed to assess whether (i) chronically HCV-infected women with opioid dependence had lower rates of HCV treatment uptake than their male counterparts during the same period (i.e., study period), and (ii) the advent of DAA resulted in increased treatment uptake rates in these women. METHODS Individuals with opioid dependence were identified as those receiving OAT at least once during the study period. Analyses were based on exhaustive anonymous care delivery data from the French national healthcare reimbursement database. We used multinomial logistic regression to estimate sex-based disparities in HCV treatment uptake (DAA or pegylated-interferon (Peg-IFN)-based treatment versus no treatment) while accounting for potential confounders. RESULTS The study sample comprised 27,127 individuals, including 5640 (20.8%) women. Median [interquartile range] age was 45 [40-49] years. Between 2012 and 2016, 70.9 (women: 77.2; men: 69.3), 17.3 (14.2; 18.2) and 11.7% (8.6%; 12.5%) of the study sample received, respectively, no HCV treatment, DAA and Peg-IFN-based treatment only. After multiple adjustment for potential confounders, women were 41% (adjusted odds-ratio (AOR) [95% confidence interval (CI]): 0.59[0.53-0.65]) and 28% (0.72[0.66-0.78]) less likely than men to have had Peg-IFN-based and DAA treatment, respectively. CONCLUSION Despite increased HCV treatment uptake in women with opioid dependence in the DAA era, rates remain lower than for men. In the coming years, access to DAA treatment will continue to increase in France thanks to a forthcoming simplified model of HCV care which includes primary care as an entry point. Nevertheless, a greater understanding of sex-specific barriers to HCV care and the implementation of appropriate sex-specific measures remain a priority.
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Meyer JP, Isaacs K, El-Shahawy O, Burlew AK, Wechsberg W. Research on women with substance use disorders: Reviewing progress and developing a research and implementation roadmap. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 197:158-163. [PMID: 30826625 PMCID: PMC6440852 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on women with substance use disorders has expanded, yet knowledge and implementation gaps remain. METHODS Drawing from topics discussed at the 2017 meeting of InWomen's in Montreal, Canada, this article reviews key progress in research on substance use among women, adolescents, and families to delineate priorities for the next generation of research. RESULTS The field has seen significant accomplishments in multiple domains, including the management of pregnant women with substance use and comorbid psychiatric disorders, caring for neonates in opioid withdrawal, greater inclusion of and treatment options for LGBTQ + communities, gendered instrumentation, and gender-focused HIV interventions for adolescent girls and women. Women who use alcohol and other drugs often experience other comorbid medical conditions (chronic Hepatitis C and HIV), contextual confounders (intimate partner violence exposure, homelessness, trauma), and social expectations (e.g., as caretakers) that must be addressed as part of integrated care to effectively treat women's substance use issues. Although significant advances have been made in the field to date, gender-based issues for women remain a neglected area in much of substance abuse research. Few dedicated and gender-focused funding opportunities exist and research has been siloed, limiting the potential for collaborations or interdisciplinary cross-talk. CONCLUSION Given renewed attention to substance use in the context of the burgeoning opioid epidemic and shifts in global politics that affect women's substance use, the field requires a strategic rethink to invigorate a pipeline of future research and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie P Meyer
- Yale School of Medicine AIDS Program, 135 College Street, Suite 323, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
| | - Krystyna Isaacs
- Benten Technologies, 13996 Parkeast Circle, Chantilly, VA, 20151, USA.
| | - Omar El-Shahawy
- New York University School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
| | - A Kathleen Burlew
- University of Cincinnati, Department of Psychology, ML 0376, 4150 Edwards One Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45221, USA.
| | - Wendee Wechsberg
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, 3040 E Cornwallis Rd, Durham, NC, 27709, USA; Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA; Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
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Drug use patterns and associated factors among female sex workers in Iran. Addict Behav 2019; 90:40-47. [PMID: 30355536 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.09.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines the prevalence of drug and poly-drug use and their associated factors among female sex workers (FSW) in Iran. METHODS We analyzed data from a bio-behavioral surveillance survey of 1347 FSW across 13 major cities in Iran in 2015. Two outcome measures were defined: i) past-month "any drug use", a binary variable defined as none or any; and ii) a three-category past-month "poly-drug use" variable defined as none, only one drug, and more than one drug. Correlates of these two study outcomes were assessed using multivariable logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. RESULTS We found that 24.9% (95% CI: 16.1, 36.4) and 13.5% (95% CI: 8.1, 21.5) of FSW reported past-month any drug use and poly-drug use, respectively. Longer sex work career (AOR 2.44 [95% CI: 1.28, 4.63]), unstable housing (AOR 2.56 [1.17, 5.64]), past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 1.61 [1.15, 2.27]), and incarceration (AOR 2.02 [1.23, 3.32]) were positively associated with any drug use. Similarly, FSW who were unstably housed (AOR 3.4 [1.06, 10.95]), reported past-year experience of sexual violence (AOR 2.06 [95% CI: 1.24, 3.41]) and incarceration (AOR 2.82 [1.60, 4.97]) were positively associated with past-month poly-drug use. CONCLUSION Drug use is frequent among Iranian FSW, particularly among those who experienced sexual violence, unstable housing or incarceration. Programs to reduce harms associated with drug and poly-drug use should target FSW as a priority population.
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Footer KHA, Lim S, Rael CT, Greene GJ, Carballa-Diéguez A, Giguere R, Martinez M, Bockting W, D'Aquila R, Sherman SG. Exploring new and existing PrEP modalities among female sex workers and women who inject drugs in a U.S. city. AIDS Care 2019; 31:1207-1213. [PMID: 30822101 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2019.1587352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
To address a shortage in research on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) amongst women at high risk of HIV acquisition, this study explored the attitudes and preferences of female sex workers (FSW) (n = 15) and women who inject drugs (WWID) (n = 16) to existing (e.g., pill) and new (e.g., injection, implant) PrEP modalities, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A. This study reports on seven focus groups conducted between December 2016 and April 2017 and aims to provide new insights into FSW and WWID attitudes and preferences towards three different PrEP delivery methods (i.e., PrEP pill, PrEP implant, PrEP injection). Results draw upon the PrEP care continuum framework and distill existing factors, including lack of control over side effects with new, longer lasting modalities, better privacy with injections, increased adherence with reduced dosing schedules from longer lasting PrEP and new factors such as perceptibility concerns with respect to the PrEP implant relevant to PrEP uptake and adherence among two important overlapping, at-risk populations. The study contributes to a better understanding of barriers and facilitators to uptake and adherence for FSW and WWID around both existing and new PrEP modalities, with implications for future clinical trials and PrEP interventions with at risk-populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahnah Lim
- b Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Christine Tagliaferri Rael
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - George J Greene
- d Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Alex Carballa-Diéguez
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Rebecca Giguere
- c HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, New York State Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Michelle Martinez
- e Program for the Study of LGBT Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute / Columbia Psychiatry with the Columbia University School of Nursing , New York , NY , USA.,f Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University , New York , NY , USA
| | - Walter Bockting
- e Program for the Study of LGBT Health, New York State Psychiatric Institute / Columbia Psychiatry with the Columbia University School of Nursing , New York , NY , USA
| | - Richard D'Aquila
- d Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University , Chicago , IL , USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- a Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health , Baltimore , MD , USA
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Jones AA, Dyer TV, Das A, Lasopa SO, Striley CW, Cottler LB. Risky Sexual Behaviors, Substance Use, and Perceptions of Risky Behaviors Among Criminal Justice Involved Women Who Trade Sex. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2019; 49:15-27. [PMID: 33828337 PMCID: PMC8022863 DOI: 10.1177/0022042618795141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined risky sexual behaviors, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV)-defined alcohol and substance use disorders, and perceptions of risky behaviors among community released, justice-involved women, who are currently trading sex (CTS), formerly traded sex (FTS), or have never traded sex. Data were derived from 266 sexually active women recruited from a Municipal Drug Court System in St. Louis, Missouri. In an adjusted multinomial regression model, being dependent on alcohol and cocaine was the most robust correlate of sex-trading status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: CTS = 4.21, FTS = 4.66). Perceptions of sexual risk and HIV were significantly associated with CTS (AOR = 3.39), however, not FTS. Other significant correlates of sex trading status included age, lifetime injection drug use, lower education, child sexual abuse, and unstable housing. Gender-specific interventions tailored toward currently and formerly sex-trading women are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abenaa A. Jones
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - T. V. Dyer
- University of Maryland, College Park, USA
| | - A. Das
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - S. O. Lasopa
- Sir Thutob Namgyal Memorial Hospital, Gangtok, India
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Motherhood and Risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Female Sex Workers in the Mexico-US Border Region. Sex Transm Dis 2018; 44:477-482. [PMID: 28703726 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, female sex workers (FSWs) have been identified as a high-risk group for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, as women of reproductive age, FSWs also have children. Few studies have investigated if financial responsibilities associated with motherhood increase women's vulnerability to HIV and STIs among FSWs. METHODS From March 2013 to March 2014, 603 FSWs aged ≥18 years were recruited from Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez (Mexico) to participate in a study assessing HIV/STI risk environments. RESULTS Findings from logistic regression models indicate that FSWs who reported motherhood were more likely to report (in the past 30 days): a higher client volume (>30 clients) (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.27-2.87) and always using alcohol right before or during sex with clients in the past 30 days (AOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.19-2.61). In contrast, they were more likely to report consistent condom use for vaginal or anal sex with clients (AOR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.10-2.55), less likely to report using drugs right before or during sex with clients (AOR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.26-0.56) and less likely to have tested positive for STIs at baseline (AOR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.43-0.91). CONCLUSIONS These results provide a glimpse of the complex relationship between motherhood and women who are sex workers. Understanding the convergence of motherhood and sex work and how this can influence a woman's decision when engaging in sex work and affect her health is essential to designing effective programs addressing reduce risk for HIV and STIs among FSWs in this region and elsewhere.
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Sex Work as an Emerging Risk Factor for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Seroconversion Among People who Inject Drugs in the SurvUDI Network. Sex Transm Dis 2017; 43:648-55. [PMID: 27631361 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent analyses have shown an emerging positive association between sex work and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence among people who inject drugs (PWIDs) in the SurvUDI network. METHODS Participants who had injected in the past 6 months were recruited across the Province of Quebec and in the city of Ottawa, mainly in harm reduction programs. They completed a questionnaire and provided gingival exudate for HIV antibody testing. The associations with HIV seroconversion were tested with a Cox proportional hazard model using time-dependent covariables including the main variable of interest, sexual activity (sex work; no sex work; sexually inactive). The final model included significant variables and confounders of the associations with sexual activity. RESULTS Seventy-two HIV seroconversions were observed during 5239.2 person-years (py) of follow-up (incidence rates: total = 1.4/100 py; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-1.7; sex work = 2.5/100 py; 95% CI, 1.5-3.6; no sex work = 0.8/100 py; 95% CI, 0.5-1.2; sexually inactive = 1.8/100 py; 95% CI, 1.1-2.5). In the final multivariate model, HIV incidence was significantly associated with sexual activity (sex work: adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 2.19; 95% CI, 1.13-4.25; sexually inactive: AHR, 1.62; 95% CI, 0.92-2.88), and injection with a needle/syringe used by someone else (AHR, 2.84; 95% CI, 1.73-4.66). CONCLUSIONS Sex work is independently associated with HIV incidence among PWIDs. At the other end of the spectrum of sexual activity, sexually inactive PWIDs have a higher HIV incidence rate, likely due to more profound dependence leading to increased vulnerabilities, which may include mental illness, poverty, and social exclusion. Further studies are needed to understand whether the association between sex work and HIV is related to sexual transmission or other vulnerability factors.
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