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IntroductionThe increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia, presents key challenges to achieving optimal HIV care outcomes among ageing people living with HIV. These diseases are often comorbid and are exacerbated by psychosocial and structural inequities. This interaction among multiple health conditions and social factors is referred to as a syndemic. In the USA, there are substantial disparities by social position (ie, racial, ethnic and socioeconomic status) in the prevalence and/or control of non-communicable diseases and HIV. Intersecting stigmas, such as racism, classism and homophobia, may drive these health disparities by contributing to healthcare avoidance and by contributing to a psychosocial syndemic (stress, depression, violence victimisation and substance use), reducing success along the HIV and non-communicable disease continua of care. Our hypothesis is that marginalised populations experience disparities in non-communicable disease incidence, prevalence and control, mediated by intersectional stigma and the psychosocial syndemic.Methods and analysisCollecting data over a 4 year period, we will recruit sexual minority men (planned n=1800) enrolled in the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study, a long-standing mixed-serostatus observational cohort in the USA, to investigate the following specific aims: (1) assess relationships between social position, intersectional stigma and the psychosocial syndemic among middle-aged and ageing sexual minority men, (2) assess relationships between social position and non-communicable disease incidence and prevalence and (3) assess relationships between social position and HIV and non-communicable disease continua of care outcomes, mediated by intersectional stigma and the psychosocial syndemic. Analyses will be conducted using generalised structural equation models using a cross-lagged panel model design.Ethics and disseminationThis protocol is approved as a single-IRB study (Advarra Institutional Review Board: Protocol 00068335). We will disseminate results via peer-reviewed academic journals, scientific conferences, a dedicated website, site community advisory boards and forums hosted at participating sites.

ObjectiveSexual and physical abuse predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) among women in the general population. Women living with HIV (WLWH) report more abuse and have higher CVD risk compared with other women, yet associations between abuse history and CVD have not been considered among WLWH. This study fills this gap, and describes possible pathways linking abuse to CVD risk among WLWH and women living without HIV (WLWOH).MethodsUsing 25 years of data from the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS; n  = 2734; WLWH n  = 1963; WLWOH n  = 771), we used longitudinal generalized estimating equations (GEE) to test associations between sexual and physical abuse with CVD risk. Framingham (FRS-H) and the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association-Pooled Cohort Equation (ACC/AHA-PCE) scores were examined. Analyses were stratified by HIV-serostatus.ResultsAmong WLWH, childhood sexual abuse was associated with higher CVD risk ( βFRS-H  = 1.25, SE = 1.08, P  = 0.005; βACC/AHA-PCE  = 1.14, SE = 1.07, P  = 0.04) compared with no abuse. Adulthood sexual abuse was associated with higher CVD risk for WLWH ( βFRS-H  = 1.39, SE = 1.08, P

State-level structural stigma and its consequences in healthcare settings shape access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). Our objective was to assess the relationships between same-sex marriage laws, a measure of structural stigma at the state level, provider-patient communication about sex, and GBMSM awareness and use of PrEP. Using data from the Fenway Institute's MSM Internet Survey collected in 2013 (N = 3296), we conducted modified Poisson regression analyses to evaluate associations between same-sex marriage legality, measures of provider-patient communication, and PrEP awareness and use. Living in a state where same-sex marriage was legal was associated with PrEP awareness (aPR 1.27; 95% CI 1.14, 1.41), as were feeling comfortable discussing with primary care providers that they have had sex with a man (aPR 1.63; 95% CI 1.46, 1.82), discussing with their primary care provider having had condomless sex with a man (aPR 1.65; 95% CI 1.49, 1.82), and discussing with their primary care provider ways to prevent sexual transmission of HIV (aPR 1.39; 95% CI 1.26, 1.54). Each of these three measures of provider-patient communication were additionally associated with PrEP awareness and use. In sum, structural stigma was associated with reduced PrEP awareness and use. Policies that reduce stigma against GBMSM may help to promote PrEP and prevent HIV transmission.

ObjectiveThis study examines the association between social support and cognitive function among midlife and older MSM living with or without HIV.DesignWe analyzed longitudinal data from participants enrolled from October 2016 to March 2019 in the Patterns of Healthy Aging Study, a substudy of the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional analysis to estimate the association between social support and three measures of cognitive function [Trail Making Test (TMT) Part A, TMT Part B to A ratio, and Symbol Digit Modalities Tasks (SDMT)]. We also used linear mixed-effects models to estimate the association between baseline social support and cognitive function across four subsequent time points. We evaluated a multiplicative interaction term between baseline social support and time, in order to determine whether cognitive trajectories over time vary by baseline social support.ResultsSocial support was associated with lower TMT Part A scores at baseline and over the subsequent 2 years, indicating better psychomotor ability. Social support was associated with higher SDMT scores at baseline and across 2 years, indicating better information processing. We observed no association between social support and TMT B to A ratio at baseline or across 2 years, indicating no effect on set-shifting ability. Longitudinal cognition outcome trajectories did not vary by the level of baseline social support.ConclusionSocial support and cognitive function were associated in this sample over a short time period. Further research should explore causal relationships over the lifespan.

BackgroundHIV incidence has recently increased among people who inject drugs (PWID) across the United States, with outbreaks occurring in states with long-standing syringe service programs (SSPs) including Massachusetts (MA). Antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an evidence-based HIV prevention strategy recommended for PWID, but uptake in this marginalized population is extraordinarily low.MethodsWe describe the design and procedures for a National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)-funded (R01) randomized controlled trial (RCT) testing the efficacy of "PrEP for Health," a multicomponent behavioral intervention to increase PrEP uptake, adherence, and persistence among HIV-negative PWID attending SSPs in two areas of the U.S. Northeast that are heavily affected by injection-related HIV transmission. Participants are equally randomized to receive the "PrEP for Health" intervention (involving individually tailored HIV and PrEP education, motivational interviewing, problem-solving skills and planning, and ongoing navigation support) or an enhanced standard of care (eSOC) control condition involving a brief educational video on the utility of PrEP for HIV prevention. Co-primary outcomes are PrEP uptake (using medical/pharmacy records) and adherence (using tenofovir quantification in hair samples); a secondary outcome is PrEP persistence (using medical/pharmacy records) over 12 months. Major assessments occur at baseline, 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up visits. Planned analyses will examine intervention efficacy, specific hypothesized conceptual mediators of the intervention effect (e.g., self-perceived HIV risk; PrEP knowledge, interest in use, motivation, and behavioral skills) and epidemiologically linked moderators (e.g., age; gender; condomless vaginal or anal sex).DiscussionFindings from our extensive preliminary research with the study population revealed that a multicomponent, theory-based intervention targeting PrEP knowledge, motivation, self-efficacy, behavioral skills, and structural barriers to PrEP access is urgently needed for PWID who are at risk of HIV acquisition. We also learned that SSPs represent a highly acceptable service setting for delivering such interventions. In this study, we are evaluating the efficacy of the "PrEP for Health" intervention. If efficacious, findings from our implementation evaluation could help guide its dissemination to diverse SSPs and possibly other community-based settings accessed by this population.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04430257, registered June 12, 2020.

Background: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people are disproportionately incarcerated in the United States relative to the general population. A dearth of quantitative research has explored victimization as a risk factor for incarceration as well as the victimization experiences of formerly incarcerated TGD populations. Methods: In 2019, 574 TGD adults completed an online survey assessing sociodemographics, victimization across settings, and incarceration history. Latent class analysis was used to identify two sets of latent subgroups based on respondent's victimization experiences: 1) lifetime victimization (low; moderate; and high) and 2) classes of victimization while incarcerated (low; moderate; and high). Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses examined sociodemographic, mental health, and lifetime victimization experiences associated with lifetime incarceration (Outcome 1). Among those with incarceration histories, bivariate hierarchical logistic regression analyses also explored the association between gender identity, race/ethnicity, HIV status, visual gender non-conformity, and class of victimization during incarceration (Outcome 2) . Results: Participants' mean age was 31.4 (SD = 11.2), 43.4% had a non-binary gender identity, 81.5% were White, non-Hispanic, 2.1% were living with HIV, and 13.2% had been incarcerated. In the multivariable model for Outcome 1, high levels of victimization, age, being a racial/ethnic minority, being a trans woman, living with HIV, and past-12-month polysubstance use were all associated with increased odds of lifetime incarceration (p-values < 0.05). In the bivariate hierarchical logistic regression analyses for Outcome 2, living with HIV and having a visually gender non-conforming expression were significantly associated with elevated odds of experiencing high levels of victimization while incarcerated (p-values < 0.05). Conclusion: Findings document the relationships between victimization and incarceration among TGD people as well as identify the subpopulations at greater risk for incarceration and experiencing victimization while incarcerated. Efforts are needed to prevent victimization across the life course, including while incarcerated and support TGD individuals in coping with the negative sequelae of victimization and incarceration experiences.

BackgroundTo assess the long-term biological coefficient of variation within individuals (CVI) and between individuals (CVG), effect of aging and cholesterol lowering drugs on blood levels of lipids in HIV-1-infected and -uninfected men.MethodsBloods were analyzed every six months over 17 years for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in 140 HIV-uninfected (38-66 years old) and 90 HIV-treated infected (48-64 years old) white Caucasian men to examine CVI, CVG, and the effect of cholesterol lowering drugs (CLDs) on lipid levels, and estimated changes per year of biomarkers.ResultsWith exception of HDL-C, the long term CVI compared with CVG were higher for serum levels of TC, TGs, and LDL-C in both HIV-1 infected and uninfected men not taking CLDs. Excluding results of TGs in HIV positive men, the CVI compared with CVG were lower for serum levels of TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C in both groups not taking CLDs. There were significant (p

ObjectivesThis study of people with HIV (PWH) and those without HIV conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States in 2020 examines the impact of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on COVID-19 burden, defined as pandemic-related disruptions.MethodsData consisted of survey responses on PTSD among participants (N = 2434) enrolled in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) and the Women's Interagency HIV (WIHS) cohorts. Unadjusted and adjusted regression models were used to examine the association of PTSD with COVID-19 burden (overall and domain-specific burdens). Quasi-Poisson regression models were used to assess associations with the COVID-19 burden score and 2 domain-specific burdens: (1) changes in resources and (2) interruptions in health care. Analyses was adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, HIV serostatus, current smoking status, number of comorbidities, education, and study regions.ResultsStudy participants were a median age of 58 (interquartile range, 52-65) years. In both bivariate and multivariable models, PTSD severity was associated with greater overall COVID-19 burden. PTSD severity was associated with the number of resource changes and number of interruptions in medical care. These findings were also consistent across cohorts (MACS/WIHS) and across HIV serostatus, suggesting a greater risk for COVID-19 burden with greater PTSD severity, which remained significant after controlling for covariates.ConclusionsThis study builds on emerging literature demonstrating the impact of mental health on the burden and disruption associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, providing context specific to PWH. The ongoing pandemic requires structural and social interventions to decrease disruption to resources and health resource needs among these vulnerable populations.

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has impacted researchers' ability to continue to deliver HIV prevention and treatment interventions face to face. Although telehealth has been an important strategy to maintain research operations during the current pandemic, participants at increased risk of or living with HIV are often at higher risk of also experiencing poverty, housing instability, and other challenges that may present obstacles to successful remote delivery. Methods: We provide descriptions of remote adaptations to two randomized controlled efficacy trials of behavioral interventions for primary and secondary HIV prevention with descriptive enrollment and retention data. Results and Conclusions: Best practices for implementing telemedicine and e-health procedures are discussed, including procedures for addressing remote participation barriers (economic, health literacy, etc.) and other challenges, such as building rapport and staff support (NCT03092531 and NCT03175159).

Background & objectivesTransgender women (TGW) in India are at high risk of HIV infection. Despite behavioural interventions aimed at reducing HIV risk, no literature synthesis exists so far to evaluate their potential for reducing HIV incidence in India This review was aimed to identify and evaluate HIV-focussed behaviour change interventions for TGW in India.MethodsLiterature from three databases were reviewed up to June 2, 2021, for studies describing behavioural interventions for HIV prevention among TGW in India. The inclusion criteria were studies that included TGW and reported intervention effects on HIV prevention-related behaviour. Data were analyzed descriptively.ResultsOf the 146 articles screened, only three met the inclusion criteria. All three interventions were at the open pilot trial stage and included other high-risk groups (e.g. men who have sex with men). The interventions used behavioural counselling, increased sexually transmitted infection screening and sexual healthcare visits and leveraged community-based organizations to improve the outcomes. All these interventions showed modest improvements in health-seeking behaviour and access to services. However, none specifically targeted TGW.Interpretation & conclusionsThe scoping review highlights the need for behavioural interventions for HIV prevention tailored to TGW in India. This study emphasizes the need for research to move to the next stage of intervention development and testing utilizing more rigorous evaluation methods, such as a randomized controlled trial.

BackgroundAt the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, HIV experts suggested that an increase in mental health diagnoses and substance use among people living with HIV (PLHIV) may be an unintended consequence of COVID-19 mitigation efforts (e.g., limiting social contact). We evaluated short-term trajectories in binge drinking, marijuana, and recreational drug use in a prospective cohort of PLHIV.MethodsData (N = 2121 PLHIV) consist of survey responses on substance use behaviors from two pre-COVID-19 (October 2018-September 2019) and one COVID-19-era (April 2020-September 2020) timepoints within the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS). We conducted group-based trajectory models, triangulated with generalized linear mixed models, to assess changes in binge drinking, daily marijuana use, and recreational drug use at the start of the pandemic. Controlling for age and race/ethnicity, we tested whether trajectories differed by sex and early-pandemic depressive symptoms, loneliness, and social support.ResultsGroup-based trajectory models yielded two trajectory groups for binge drinking (none vs. any), marijuana (none/infrequent vs. daily), and recreational drug use (none vs. any). Binge drinking and recreational drug use decreased at the beginning of the pandemic. Generalized linear mixed model supported these trends. Consistent with prior research, male sex and having depressive symptoms early pandemic were positively associated with each substance use outcomes. Social support was inversely associated with recreational drug use.ConclusionsContrary to hypotheses, problematic substance use behaviors decreased from pre-pandemic to the post-pandemic follow-up in our sample of PLHIV. Ongoing surveillance is needed to assess whether this pattern persists as the pandemic continues.

Gender-affirming hormones have been shown to improve psychological functioning and quality of life among transgender and nonbinary (trans) people, yet, scant research exists regarding whether and why individuals take more or less hormones than prescribed. Drawing on survey data from 379 trans people who were prescribed hormones, we utilized multivariable logistic regression models to identify factors associated with hormone-dosing behaviors and content analysis to examine the reasons for dose modifications. Overall, 24% of trans individuals took more hormones than prescribed and 57% took less. Taking more hormones than prescribed was significantly associated with having the same provider for primary and gender-affirming care and gender-based discrimination. Income and insurance coverage barriers were significantly associated with taking less hormones than prescribed. Differences by gender identity were also observed. Addressing barriers to hormone access and cost could help to ensure safe hormone-dosing behaviors and the achievement trans people's gender-affirmation goals.

BackgroundSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms among people living with HIV (PLWH) are not well described.SettingLongitudinal survey within the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) of PLWH compared with similar HIV-seronegative (SN) individuals.MethodsTelephone-administered survey of MWCCS participants at 13 clinical research sites across the United States addressing COVID-19 symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 testing, and pandemic impact on social distancing and antiretroviral therapy (ART) use. Primary data collection occurred during May (wave 1), June-July (wave 2), and August-September, 2020 (wave 3).ResultsOne-third of MWCCS participants were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection; 10% was tested ≥2 times. Similar proportions of PLWH and SN participants were tested, but SARS-CoV-2 positivity was higher among PLWH than among SN individuals (9.4% vs 4.8%, P = 0.003). Odds of SARS-CoV-2 positivity remained higher among PLWH after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and study site (adjusted odds ratio = 2.0, 95% confidence interval = 1.2 to 3.2). SARS-CoV-2 positivity was not associated with CD4 cell counts among PLWH. Among SARS-CoV-2 positive participants, 9% had no symptoms, 7% had 1-2 mild symptoms, and 84% had ≥3 symptoms. Most of the (98%) participants reported physical distancing during all survey waves; self-reported ART adherence among PLWH was not adversely affected during the pandemic compared with the previous year (similar adherence in 89% of participants, improved in 9% of participants, and decreased in 2% of participants).ConclusionsDespite similar SARS-CoV-2 testing and physical distancing profiles by HIV serostatus among MWCCS participants, PLWH who reported SARS-CoV-2 testing were more likely to have a positive test result. Additional studies are needed to determine whether and why PLWH are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

ObjectivesThis study describes prevention behavior and psychosocial health among people living with HIV (PLHIV) and HIV-negative people during the early wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the United States. We assessed differences by HIV status and associations between social disruption and psychosocial health.DesignA cross-sectional telephone/videoconference administered survey of 3411 PLHIV and HIV-negative participants in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS).MethodsAn instrument combining new and validated measures was developed to assess COVID-19 prevention efforts, social disruptions (loss of employment, childcare, health insurance, and financial supports), experiences of abuse, and psychosocial health. Interviews were performed between April and June 2020. Associations between social disruptions and psychosocial health were explored using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for sociodemographics and HIV status.ResultsAlmost all (97.4%) participants reported COVID-19 prevention behavior; 40.1% participants reported social disruptions, and 34.3% reported health care appointment disruption. Men living with HIV were more likely than HIV-negative men to experience social disruptions (40.6% vs. 32.9%; P < 0.01), whereas HIV-negative women were more likely than women with HIV to experience social disruptions (51.1% vs. 39.8%, P < 0.001). Participants who experienced ≥2 social disruptions had significantly higher odds of depression symptoms [aOR = 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.12 to 1.56], anxiety (aOR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.17 to 2.27), and social support dissatisfaction (aOR = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.26 to 2.60).ConclusionsThis study builds on emerging literature demonstrating the psychosocial health impact related to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing context specific to PLHIV. The ongoing pandemic requires structural and social interventions to decrease social disruption and address psychosocial health needs among the most vulnerable populations.

Engagement with HIV-prevention services varies among sexual minority men (SMM). 183 HIV-negative SMM completed a baseline assessment including sociodemographic, psychosocial, identity and stigma, and sexuality measures, as well as HIV-prevention behaviors: (1) date of most recent HIV test, (2) whether they discussed HIV or (3) sexual behavior with their provider, and (4) disclosure to provider about engaging in condomless anal sex (CAS). Factor analysis of these four items yielded an HIV-prevention engagement factor score. Stochastic search variable selection (SSVS) followed by multiple linear regression identified variables associated with HIV-prevention engagement. SSVS identified three variables for inclusion in a multiple linear regression model. Not disclosing sexual orientation to one's provider (p

Nigerian gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) experience social marginalisation, discrimination and violence due to their sexual orientation and same-sex attraction, which may affect mental health, substance use, and HIV sexual risk behavior. The goal of the current study was to conduct formative qualitative research to gain better understanding of these issues among GBMSM in Lagos, Nigeria. Face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 30 GBMSM in Lagos, Nigeria. Data were analysed using a deductive content analysis approach. We found that Nigerian GBMSM experienced both general life stressors as well as proximal and distal sexual minority identity stressors, including rejection by family members, harassment, and physical violence perpetrated by the general public and police officers. Participants described dealing with mental health problems within the context of family rejection, experienced stigma due to sexual orientation, and feelings of social isolation. Substance use was described as occurring within the context of social settings. Lastly, some participants mentioned that they engaged in risky sexual behaviour while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. These findings call for comprehensive and innovative, GBMSM-affirming behavioural healthcare, substance cessation services, and innovative HIV prevention interventions specifically designed and tailored for Nigerian GBMSM.

Geosocial networking applications (GSN apps) are widely utilized by gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) to meet potential sexual/romantic partners, foster friendships, and build community. However, GSN apps usage has been linked to elevated levels of HIV sexual risk behavior among GBMSM. Little is known about how GSN apps can facilitate HIV sexual risk behaviors, especially among GBMSM in Africa. To fill this gap in research, the present study aimed to characterize the frequency of GSN apps usage and its association with sociodemographic characteristics, sexual health, healthcare access, psychosocial problems, and substance use in a large multicity sample of community-recruited GBMSM in Nigeria (N = 406). Bivariate and multivariable ordinal logistic regression procedures were used to examine factors associated with GSN apps usage. We found that 52.6% of participants reported recent (≤ 3 months) GSN apps use to meet sexual partners. Factors associated with increased odds of GSN apps usage included: being single, having a university degree or higher, reporting higher recent receptive anal sexual acts, being aware of PrEP, having a primary care provider, and reporting higher levels of identity concealment. HIV-related intervention delivered through GSN apps may help curb the spread of HIV among Nigerian GBMSM.

BackgroundIn the United States, the criminalization and stigmatization of drug use and sex work contribute to infectious disease transmission and healthcare disengagement. People who inject drugs (PWID) and engage in sex work experience exacerbated HIV risk. In the context of the ongoing HIV and overdose epidemics little research describes why PWID engage in sex work and its relative HIV risk. To inform intervention needs, we aimed to create a typology of sex work among PWID with a focus on HIV risk and healthcare utilization behaviours.MethodsWe drew from in-depth interviews conducted across Massachusetts and Rhode Island from 2016-2019. Participants were ≥18 years old and self-reported past-month injection drug use and HIV-negative status. Using data from individuals reporting sex work experience (n=33/78), we utilized the framework method to develop a typology of perspectives on sex work engagement and attributes pertaining to HIV risk and healthcare utilization behaviours.ResultsWe uncovered varying perspectives on sex work and associated HIV risks and prevention needs. A typology included three groups who viewed their sex work engagement as a (1) consistent job, (2) income supplement, or (3) survival method to abate withdrawal symptoms. The first group described more consistent sexual and injection behaviours to mitigate HIV risk than the second group. The third group appeared particularly vulnerable to HIV, describing inconsistent condom use and frequent sharing of injection equipment, low healthcare utilization, and limited disclosure of sex work and injection drug use to healthcare providers.ConclusionFindings highlight distinct perspectives on sex work among PWID involved in it and corresponding perceptions of HIV risk and healthcare utilization behaviours. Understanding the nuances in sex work engagement among PWID can inform interventions to prevent infectious disease transmission, including efforts to further connect this marginalized population to harm reduction, health, and low barrier opioid treatment services.

IntroductionPeople with HIV (PWH) who are not consistently retained in medical care, particularly when they are first diagnosed, are at risk for: delayed antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, suboptimal ART adherence, unsuppressed viremia, and mortality. Suboptimal retention means effective ART cannot be leveraged to prevent onward HIV transmission. To address this, we developed and previously pilot tested the HIV Engage intervention-a novel behavioral approach to enhance retention in HIV care using acceptance-based behavioral therapy (ABBT)-and established feasibility and acceptability of this approach. In the current study, we investigate the efficacy of ABBT compared to an attention-matched control condition in a full-scale randomized controlled efficacy trial.MethodsTwo hundred seventy HIV care naïve patients from geographically diverse clinics will be recruited and equally randomized to receive (a) the HIV Engage intervention, consisting of two 20-30 min ABBT sessions delivered in-person or remotely, or (b) an attention-matched HIV education control condition. Primary outcomes are number of HIV care appointments kept and HIV viral load suppression. Secondary outcomes are higher self-reported ART adherence, HIV status disclosure, increased social support, and reductions in perceived HIV stigma. Hypothesized mediators include acceptance of one's HIV diagnosis and willingness to disclose serostatus. We will also assess for epidemiologically-linked moderators of the treatment effect.ConclusionsABBT represents a novel, potentially promising approach to enhance retention in ongoing HIV care among treatment naïve PWH. This study will contribute significant actionable data establishing the impact, mediational mechanisms, and effect modifiers of ABBT.

Engagement in HIV care and a high level of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence for people living with HIV is crucial to treatment success and can minimize the population burden of the disease. Despite this, there is a critical gap in HIV prevention science around the development of interventions for serodiscordant male couples. This paper reports on the results of a randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of Stronger Together, a dyadic counseling intervention aimed at increasing engagement in and optimizing HIV care among serodiscordant male couples in Atlanta, GA, Boston, MA, and Chicago, IL. Between 2014 and 2017, 159 male serodiscordant couples (total N = 318) in Atlanta, GA, Boston, MA, and Chicago, IL were enrolled and equally randomized to either the Stronger Together intervention arm (a three-session dyadic intervention involving HIV testing and adherence counseling) or a standard of care (SOC) control arm. Couples completed individual study assessments via an audio computer assisted self-interviewing (ACASI) system at baseline, 6, 12 and 18 months. Primary outcomes included being prescribed and currently taking ART, and fewer missed doses of ART in the past 30 days; because the trial was not powered to examine viral suppression, we examined this as an exploratory outcome. Longitudinal data analysis was by an intention-to-treat approach. Participants ages ranged from 18 to 69 (mean = 35.9), and are predominantly white (77.5%), and college educated (68.4% earned a college degree or higher). Participants randomized to the Stronger Together arm had a significantly greater odds of being prescribed and currently taking ART over time than those in the SOC arm (at 12 months OR 2.75, 95%CI 1.35-4.67, p-value 0.020, and at 18 months OR 2.91, 95%CI 1.61-4.88, p-value 0.013). Similarly, those in the Stronger Together arm had a significantly lower odds of missing a dose of ART in the past 30 days over time compared to those in the SOC arm (at 12 months OR 0.28, 95%CI 0.09-0.81, p-value 0.019, and at 18 months OR 0.25, 95%CI 0.07-0.82, p-value 0.023). Among male couples in serodiscordant relationships, the Stronger Together intervention resulted in significantly improved HIV treatment outcomes at both 12 and 18 months of follow-up. This trial is the first to date to demonstrate evidence of efficacy for a dyadic counseling intervention and has the potential to fill a critical gap in secondary HIV prevention interventions for serodiscordant male couples.

Purpose of reviewRecent HIV outbreaks among people who use drugs (PWUD) necessitate additional HIV prevention tools. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly efficacious yet uptake among PWUD remains exceedingly low. To address multilevel, complex barriers to PrEP use among PWUD, a range of intervention strategies are needed.Recent findingsThe literature on interventions to optimize PrEP use among PWUD is nascent, comprising small pilots and demonstration projects in early phases of intervention development. Initial studies suggest that structural, healthcare, interpersonal, and individual-level interventions can improve PrEP use for PWUD, and a number of efficacy trials are underway. Future studies are needed to optimize the use of new PrEP modalities (e.g., injectable PrEP), simultaneously target multilevel challenges to PrEP use, and evaluate the integration of PrEP into other service settings and substance use treatment modalities.

Multilevel barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care among male sex workers (MSW) include aspects of interactions with health services and providers. We examined relationships between health service- and provider-level factors and PrEP care among MSW. Between 2017 and 2019, we enrolled 111 MSW in the Northeast United States who were not on PrEP, but expressed interest in potentially using PrEP, in a behavioral intervention to promote PrEP uptake and adherence. Using baseline data, we examined whether having a primary care provider, past year frequency of medical visits, comfort discussing sexual practices with providers, and transportation difficulties to accessing general health care were associated with PrEP use self-efficacy, anticipated barriers to PrEP uptake, adherence, and retention (linear regression), and intention to initiate PrEP (logistic regression). Models adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, sexual identity, education, and income. Participants' mean age was 34.2 [standard deviation (SD) = 8.5], and 47% were non-White. Three-quarters (76%) intended to initiate PrEP within the next month. Comfort discussing sexual practices with providers was associated with PrEP use self-efficacy (b = 0.41, p = 0.008). Comfort discussing sexual practices with providers was negatively associated with anticipated barriers to PrEP uptake (b = -0.29, p = 0.006). Transportation difficulties to accessing general health care were associated with barriers to PrEP uptake (b = 0.30, p = 0.007) and barriers to PrEP adherence and retention (b = 0.57, p

Gay and bisexual men (GBM) who report engagement in transactional sex are at increased risk for HIV acquisition. The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of transactional sex and its association with demographic characteristics, social marginalization, HIV sexual risk behaviors, psychosocial health problems, and access to healthcare services among a multi-site sample of GBM in Nigeria. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to examine factors associated with engagement in transactional sex in the previous 3 months. More than a third (39.6%) of the participants reported engagement in transactional sex in the previous 3 months. In the multivariable model, factors associated with engagement in transactional sex included: reporting a monthly income of 30,000 Naira [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.98; 95% CI: 1.12 to 3.35], compared to 30,000 or more Naira monthly income, reporting 4 or more receptive anal sex acts in the previous 30 days (aOR 2.45; 95% CI: 1.31 to 4.57) compared to reporting none, and having depressive symptoms (aOR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.14). There is an urgent need for interventions that address the economic disenfranchisement and psychosocial problems experienced by GBM in Nigeria, which has implications for sexual health.

BackgroundSubstantial research gaps exist regarding the relationship between transgender-related discrimination and substance use outcomes for transgender adults, with few studies accounting for other experiences of victimization.MethodsTransgender adults (N = 600) from Massachusetts and Rhode Island completed a survey online or in-person. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models examined the association between lifetime experiences of transgender-related discrimination using the validated 11-item Everyday Discrimination Scale (theoretical range = 0-44) and substance use outcomes: past 12-month substance use frequency, lifetime substance use disorder (SUD) diagnosis, and substance use treatment (SUTx) history. All models were adjusted for age, gender identity, race, survey modality, childhood physical/sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and discrimination attributable to other reasons than being transgender.ResultsThe mean transgender-related discrimination score was 20.8 (SD = 9.6, range = 0-44). Overall, 11.8 % of the sample had a SUD diagnosis and 11.0 % had received SUTx. In separate multivariable models adjusted for sociodemographic and victimization experiences, the highest quartile of transgender-related discrimination was significantly associated with higher past 12-month substance use (B = 1.44; aR2 = 0.13; p = .009), SUD diagnosis (aOR = 3.64; 95 % CI = 1.46-9.07; p = .006), and lifetime treatment history (aOR = 3.93; 95 % CI = 1.50-10.21; p = .005).ConclusionsThere was a significant positive association between experiencing high levels of transgender-related discrimination and substance use outcomes among the transgender adults sampled. Longitudinal research is needed to understand the specific mediators driving these relationships and to address the implications of transgender-related discrimination on SUD treatment utilization.

Psychosocial syndemic conditions have received more attention regarding their deleterious effects on HIV acquisition risk than for their potential impact on HIV treatment and viral suppression. To examine syndemic conditions' impact on the HIV care continuum, we analyzed data collected from people living with HIV (N = 14,261) receiving care through The Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems at seven sites from 2007 to 2017 who provided patient-reported outcomes ∼4-6 months apart. Syndemic condition count (depression, anxiety, substance use, and hazardous drinking), sexual risk group, and time in care were modeled to predict antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence and viral suppression (HIV RNA

BackgroundLimited research has explored risk factors for opioid pain medication misuse, concomitant substance misuse, and the unmet behavioral health treatment (BHTx) needs of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults.MethodsIn 2019, TGD adults (N = 562) in Massachusetts and Rhode Island were purposively recruited and completed a psychosocial and behavioral health survey (95 % online; 5% in-person). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with past 12-month opioid pain medication misuse and unmet BHTx needs.ResultsOverall, 24.4 % of participants were trans women; 32.0 % trans men; and 43.6 % were non-binary. Past-year substance misuse included: marijuana (56.8 %), hazardous drinking (37.5 %), hallucinogens (9.8 %), benzodiazepines (8.2 %), and opioid pain medication (8.0 %). Among participants with past-year substance misuse and BHtx need (n = 326), 81.3 % received BHtx and 18.7 % had unmet BHtx needs. Being a trans woman, having HIV, stigma in healthcare, and number of substances misused were associated with increased odds of past-year opioid pain medication misuse; high social connectedness was associated with decreased odds of opioid pain medication misuse (p-values

BackgroundMen who have sex with men (MSM) in India are extremely marginalised and stigmatised, and therefore experience immense psychosocial stress. As current HIV prevention interventions in India do not address mental health or resilience to these stressors, we aimed to evaluate a resilience-based psychosocial intervention in the context of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention.MethodsWe did a multicity, randomised, clinical efficacy trial in Chennai (governmental tuberculosis research institute) and Mumbai (non-governmental organisation for MSM), India. Inclusion criteria were MSM, aged 18 years or older, who were at risk of HIV acquisition or transmission, defined as having any of the following in the 4 months before screening: anal sex with four or more male partners (protected or unprotected), diagnosis of an STI, history of transactional sex activity, or condomless anal sex with a man who was of unknown HIV status or serodiscordant. Participants were required to speak English, Tamil (in Chennai), or Hindi (in Mumbai) fluently. Eligible individuals were randomly assigned (1:1) to either a resilience-based psychosocial HIV prevention intervention, consisting of group (four sessions) and individual (six sessions) counselling alongside HIV and STI voluntary counselling and testing, or a standard-of-care control comprising voluntary counselling and testing alone. The primary outcomes were number of condomless anal sex acts with male partners during the past month (at baseline and 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months after randomisation), and incident bacterial STIs (at 12 months after randomisation). Resilience-related mediators included self-esteem, self-acceptance, and depression. Recruitment is now closed. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02556294.FindingsBetween Sept 4, 2015, and June 28, 2018, we enrolled 608 participants; 305 (50%) were assigned to the psychosocial intervention condition and 303 (50%) were assigned to the control condition. 510 (84%) of 608 men completed an assessment at 4 months after randomisation, 483 (79%) at 8 months, and 515 (85%) at 12 months. 512 (99%) of 515 men had STI data from the 12-month assessment. The intervention condition had a 56% larger reduction in condomless anal sex acts (95% CI 35-71; p

IntroductionLittle is known about onward HIV transmissions from people living with HIV (PLWH) in care. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has increased in potency, and treatment as prevention (TasP) is an important component of ending the epidemic. Syndemic theory has informed modelling of HIV risk but has yet to inform modelling of HIV transmissions.MethodsData were from 61,198 primary HIV care visits for 14,261 PLWH receiving care through the Centers for AIDS Research (CFAR) Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS) at seven United States (U.S.) sites from 2007 to 2017. Patient-reported outcomes and measures (PROs) of syndemic conditions - depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, drug use (opiates, amphetamines, crack/cocaine) and alcohol use - were collected approximately four to six months apart along with sexual behaviours (mean = 4.3 observations). Counts of syndemic conditions, HIV sexual risk group and time in care were modelled to predict estimated HIV transmissions resulting from sexual behaviour and viral suppression status (HIV RNA

Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA were the first population to be identified with AIDS and continue to be at very high risk of HIV acquisition. We did a systematic literature search to identify the factors that explain the reasons for the ongoing epidemic in this population, using a social-ecological perspective. Common features of the HIV epidemic in American MSM include role versatility and biological, individual, and social and structural factors. The high-prevalence networks of some racial and ethnic minority men are further concentrated because of assortative mixing, adverse life experiences (including high rates of incarceration), and avoidant behaviour because of negative interactions with the health-care system. Young MSM have additional risks for HIV because their impulse control is less developed and they are less familiar with serostatus and other risk mitigation discussions. They might benefit from prevention efforts that use digital technologies, which they often use to meet partners and obtain health-related information. Older MSM remain at risk of HIV and are the largest population of US residents with chronic HIV, requiring culturally responsive programmes that address longer-term comorbidities. Transgender MSM are an understudied population, but emerging data suggest that some are at great risk of HIV and require specifically tailored information on HIV prevention. In the current era of pre-exposure prophylaxis and the undetectable equals untransmittable campaign, training of health-care providers to create culturally competent programmes for all MSM is crucial, since the use of antiretrovirals is foundational to optimising HIV care and prevention. Effective control of the HIV epidemic among all American MSM will require scaling up programmes that address their common vulnerabilities, but are sufficiently nuanced to address the specific sociocultural, structural, and behavioural issues of diverse subgroups.

BackgroundMale sex workers (MSW) are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, with an estimated HIV prevalence in the United States of 19.3%. Existing research suggests that MSW are also at risk of adverse psychosocial problems. Cross-sectional studies of MSW have suggested that co-occurring epidemics or a "syndemic" of psychosocial problems may increase vulnerability to HIV acquisition/transmission by elevated sexual risk. To the best of our knowledge, there are no published studies examining this relationship longitudinally among MSW. This study examined how a syndemic of 6 psychosocial problems result in additive risk for condomless anal sex (CAS) with male clients among a multicity, longitudinal cohort of MSW.SettingCommunity-based organization and health center in 2 Northeastern US cities.MethodsBetween 2015 and 2017, 100 MSW from Boston, MA and Providence, RI completed behavioral/psychosocial surveys at baseline, 6 months, and 12months. Generalized estimating equation modeling was used to examine the prospective relationship of additive psychosocial problems and subsequent CAS with male clients, adjusting for age, site, race/ethnicity, MSW-type, and HIV serostatus.ResultsMean age = 34.7 (SD = 11.8); 62% racial/ethnic minority; and 20% HIV+. The prevalence of 6 psychosocial syndemic problems was substantial at baseline and remained high at each time point (all within the past 6 months): 74% problematic depressive symptoms, 27% polydrug use (3+ drugs, not including stimulants), 57% stimulant (methamphetamine/cocaine/crack) use, 44% hazardous drinking, 15% experienced client-specific physical/sexual violence, and 57% childhood sexual abuse. Looking at the number of psychosocial problems experienced, 7% had zero, 27% had 1, 24% had 2, 27% had 3, and 15% had 4 or more. We identified a statistically significant positive "dose-response" relationship between the number of psychosocial problems and CAS with male clients over time, with the greatest odds of engaging in CAS with a male client over follow-up among those with 4 or more psychosocial problems (adjusted odds ratio = 5.18, 95% CI: 1.61 to 16.62).ConclusionsInternet escorts and street-based MSW are likely to experience psychosocial problems and engaging in HIV sexual risk with male clients. The accumulation of psychosocial problems additively predicted CAS with male clients in a prospective cohort of MSW. The specification of psychosocial problems presents distinct treatment targets for HIV prevention among MSW in the United States.

India has one of the largest numbers of men who have sex with men (MSM) globally; however, geographic data on sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevalence and associations with sexual behavior are limited. Six-hundred and eight MSM in Chennai and Mumbai underwent screening for a behavioral trial and were assessed for bacterial STIs (syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea), HIV, and past-month self-reported condomless anal sex (CAS). Mumbai (37.8%) had a greater prevalence of any STI than Chennai (27.6%) (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.73). This pattern also emerged for gonorrhea and chlamydia separately but not syphilis. Conversely, Mumbai MSM reported lower rates of CAS (mean = 2.2) compared to Chennai MSM (mean = 14.0) (mean difference = -11.8, 95% CI: -14.6, -9.1). The interaction of city by CAS on any STI prevalence (PR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.45, 3.01, p

BackgroundMen who have sex with men are disproportionately burdened by HIV/AIDS, and the advent of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has provided an effective strategy to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Research has shown that improving one partner's health-promoting behaviors increases the likelihood that their partner adopts healthier behaviors. We examined the longitudinal relationship between favorable HIV treatment outcomes with current PrEP use among HIV serodiscordant male partners.SettingData are from Project Stronger Together, a randomized controlled trial that recruited serodiscordant male couples from Atlanta, GA; Boston, MA; and Chicago, IL.MethodsSerodiscordant couples completed assessments at baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. We analyzed longitudinal data from 120 HIV serodiscordant male partners to assess the relationship between the HIV-negative partner's current PrEP use and their HIV-positive partner's current ART use, ART adherence, and viral load using generalized estimating equation models.ResultsFewer than half of the HIV-negative partners were on PrEP at baseline and nearly two-thirds of their HIV-positive partners were virally suppressed. HIV-negative male partners who had partners with an undetectable viral load had greater odds of being a current PrEP user than HIV-negative partners with partners with a detectable viral load.ConclusionOur study highlights the need to develop dyad-level interventions to improve HIV medication use/adherence by HIV serodiscordant male couples. Our findings also suggest that dyad-level interventions may be able to leverage our understanding of how partners can influence each other's health-promoting behaviors to develop programs that improve health outcomes for both partners.

BackgroundYoung men who have sex with men (YMSM) are disproportionately impacted by HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States (US) and have low rates of HIV/STI testing. Provision of HIV self-testing and STI self-collection can increase testing rates, and access to these kits through mobile applications (apps) could help facilitate YMSM using HIV self-testing and STI self-collection.MethodsData for this study comes from two pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of mobile apps within the Adolescent Trials Network-LYNX and MyChoices-aimed to increase HIV/STI testing among YMSM (age 15-24) who had not recently tested for HIV and were at high risk for HIV acquisition across five US cities. Both apps include the ability to order a HIV self-test with rapid results and a kit for STI self-collection and mailing of samples for syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia to a lab for testing. Using assessments of app users (n=80) at pre-randomization and at 3- and 6-months post-randomization and online interview data from a purposive sample of app users (n=37), we report on experiences and lessons learned with HIV self-testing and STI self-collection kits ordered via the apps.ResultsParticipants were on average 20.7 years of age (SD =2.4), and 49% were non-White or multiple race/ethnicity. Sixty-three percent had a prior HIV test. Over half (58%) had a prior STI test, but only 3% had tested within the past 3 months. Nearly two-thirds ordered an HIV self-testing kit; of whom, 75% reported using at least one self-test kit over the study period. STI self-collection kit ordering rates were also high (54%); however, STI self-collection kit return rates were lower (13%), but with a high positivity rate (5.3%). Both HIV self-testing and STI self-collection kits were highly acceptable, and 87% reported that it was extremely/very helpful to be able to order these kits through the apps. The most common reason for not ordering the HIV/STI kits was preferring to test at a clinic. In interviews, participants expressed feeling empowered by being able to test at home; however, they also raised concerns around STI sample collection.ConclusionsHIV self-testing and STI self-collection kit ordering via mobile apps is feasible, acceptable and may show promise in increasing testing rates among YMSM. The LYNX and MyChoices apps are currently being tested in a full-scale efficacy trial, and if successful, these innovative mobile apps could be scaled up to efficiently increase HIV/STI testing among youth across the US.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which transgender people have observed negative transgender-related messages in the media and the relationship between negative media message exposure and the mental health of transgender people. Methods: In 2019, 545 transgender adults completed an online survey assessing demographics, negative transgender-related media messages, violence, and mental health. Separate multivariable logistic regression models examined the association of frequency of negative media exposure and clinically significant symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and global psychological distress. Results: Mean age of the sample was 31.2 years (standard deviation [SD] = 11.2). Nearly half identified as nonbinary (42.2%), 82.0% were White, non-Hispanic, 56.9% had a college degree, and 67.0% were financially insecure. The majority reported experiencing childhood abuse (60.6%) and abuse in adulthood (58.0%). The mean frequency of exposure to negative transgender-related media was 6.41 (SD = 2.9) with 97.6% of the sample reporting exposure to negative media depictions of transgender people across a range of mediums. In separate multivariable models adjusted for age, gender identity, race, education, income, and childhood/adult abuse, more frequent exposure to negative depictions of transgender people in the media was significantly associated with clinically significant symptoms of depression (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-1.29; p = 0.0003); anxiety (aOR = 1.26; 95% CI = 1.14-1.40; p

Sexual minority men (SMM) face substantial disparities in rates of binge eating compared to heterosexual individuals, underscoring the need to study risk factors for the development of binge eating amongst SMM. One potential explanation for this disparity in binge eating is minority stress theory, which posits that minority groups face stressors, such as discrimination, due to their stigmatized position in society. Additionally, specific domains of discrimination may confer different levels of risk for binge eating. Therefore, the current study examined the association of various forms of discrimination, including appearance-based discrimination, and binge eating in a sample of SMM. A sample of 200 SMM (analytic sample of N = 187) from the greater Boston area completed self-report questionnaires assessing frequency of different forms of perceived discrimination (appearance, sexual orientation, race, etc.) and binge eating. A hierarchical binary logistic regression model was used to examine the association of different forms of discrimination with binge eating. 9% of the sample reported binge eating. Appearance-based discrimination was the most common form of discrimination (47%), and was significantly associated with binge eating, over and above all other forms of discrimination and sociodemographic variables, OR = 1.71, 95% CI = [1.24, 2.35], Wald χ2 (1) = 10.65, p = .001. Findings suggest that appearance-based discrimination may be related to binge eating in SMM. Clinicians may consider assessing appearance-based discrimination among SMM patients.

Historically, federal and state policies have narrowly defined treatment models that have resulted in limited access to and engagement in counseling for individuals receiving medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD; e.g., methadone and buprenorphine). In response to the coronavirus pandemic, outpatient MOUD treatment providers rapidly transitioned from traditional, in-person care delivery models to revised COVID-19 protocols that prioritized telehealth counseling to protect the health of patients and staff and ensure continuity in MOUD care. These telehealth innovations appear to mitigate many of the longstanding barriers to counseling in the traditional system and have the potential to forever alter MOUD care delivery. Drawing on data from a Rhode Island-based clinic, we argue that MOUD counseling is achievable via telehealth and outline the need for, and anticipated benefits of, hybrid telehealth/in-person MOUD treatment models moving forward.

BackgroundThe estimated 2.2 million people who inject drugs (PWID) in the USA experience significant gaps in preventive healthcare and a high burden of infectious, psychiatric, and other chronic diseases. Many PWID rely on emergency medical services, which are costly and not designed to deliver preventive services, manage chronic conditions, or address social needs.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to explore barriers and facilitators to primary care utilization from the perspectives of PWID in New England, a region highly affected by the overdose crisis.DesignParticipants completed semi-structured qualitative interviews exploring substance use and healthcare utilization patterns.ParticipantsWe recruited 78 PWID through community-based organizations (e.g., syringe service programs) in 16 urban and non-urban communities throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.ApproachThematic analysis identified barriers and facilitators to primary care utilization at the individual, interpersonal, and systemic levels.Key resultsAmong 78 PWID, 48 described recent primary care experiences; 33 had positive experiences and 15 described negative experiences involving discrimination or mistrust. Individual-level barriers to primary care utilization included perceived lack of need and competing priorities (e.g., avoiding opioid withdrawal, securing shelter beds). Interpersonal-level barriers included stigma and perceived low quality of care for PWID. Systemic-level barriers included difficulty navigating healthcare systems, inadequate transportation, long wait times, and frequent provider turnover. Participants with positive primary care experiences explained how appointment reminders, flexible hours, addiction medicine-trained providers, case management services, and transportation support facilitated primary care utilization and satisfaction.ConclusionsFindings regarding the multilevel barriers and facilitators to accessing primary care among PWID identify potential targets for programmatic interventions to improve primary care utilization in this population. Based on these findings, we make recommendations for improving the engagement of PWID in primary care as a means to advance individual and public health outcomes.

Background Stigma is associated with poor health among sexual minority individuals. However, no studies have examined the relationship between stigma and problematic drinking among male sex workers (MSWs). This study examined the relationship between sex work stigma and problematic alcohol use among MSWs.MethodsUsing baseline data from a cohort of 98 MSWs in the US Northeast enrolled between 2015 and 2016, we used logistic regression to examine associations between sex work stigma and hazardous drinking (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score ≥8) and sex work while drunk, and tested whether sexual orientation (gay vs non-gay identified) and social network size moderated these associations.ResultsAlmost half the sample (n = 46; 44%) reported hazardous drinking and 56 MSWs (57%) reported engaging in sex work while drunk. Sex work stigma was associated with hazardous drinking (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05-1.36). Sexual orientation marginally moderated this relationship (P = 0.07), such that it was only significant among gay-identified MSWs (aOR 1.91, 95% CI 1.11-3.28), not among non-gay MSW. Similarly, sexual orientation moderated the effect of sex work stigma on sex work while drunk (P = 0.02), which was only significant among gay-identified MSWs (aOR 1.65, 95% CI 1.05-1.60). Social network size also moderated the effect of sex work stigma on sex work while drunk (P = 0.02), which was only significant among MSWs with small networks (aOR 1.26, 95% CI 1.00-1.58), suggesting large networks can be protective.ConclusionsGay MSWs may be particularly vulnerable to alcohol-related effects of stigma. Future interventions should consider engaging social networks to curb problematic drinking among MSWs.

Purpose: We assessed if young transgender women (YTW) with parents who are supportive of their transgender identity had lower odds of having suicidal ideation compared with YTW with unsupportive parents. Methods: This study analyzed baseline findings from a diverse sample of 297 sexually active, YTW 16-29 years of age who were enrolled in Project LifeSkills, a randomized controlled HIV prevention intervention efficacy trial in Chicago and Boston, between 2012 and 2015. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to assess if parental support was associated with a decreased odds of suicidal ideation. Results: Nearly one-fifth (18.9%) of YTW reported suicidal ideation at baseline. In our adjusted multivariable model, YTW with supportive mothers had 0.37 (95% confidence interval = 0.15-0.90) times the odds of having suicidal ideation compared with YTW with unsupportive mothers. Conclusion: This study found that the odds of suicidal ideation were lower among YTW who had mothers who were supportive of their transgender identity. Our results suggest that parent-focused interventions to improve the relationships between YTW and their parents may lower the odds of YTW having suicidal ideation. Clinical Trial Registration Identifier: NCT01575938.

BackgroundPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate is efficacious in reducing HIV acquisition. For some gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), daily ongoing PrEP may be unsuitable for use as a long-term prevention strategy because of episodic risk, cost issues, or concerns about the biological consequences of medication.SettingThis study evaluated the feasibility of short-term, fixed-interval episodic PrEP (Epi-PrEP) for use among vacationing MSM. We describe the feasibility of implementing a clinic-based Epi-PrEP pilot program for 48 MSM who reported occasional condomless sex and anticipated a defined high-risk time.MethodsThis was a nonrandomized naturalistic study of an observational clinical intervention. The primary outcome assessed was adherence, as measured by self-report and plasma tenofovir levels.ResultsOf 54 MSM who enrolled in the study, 48 completed the 3-month visit. The majority (93.7%) had tenofovir concentrations consistent with daily use on returning from vacation. Almost 3/4 reported condomless sex during vacation, and about 1/3 reported recreational drug use. During the 3-month follow-up, 1 participant had become HIV-infected because of a lapse in continued access to the PrEP after study. Although adverse events were common, none were serious. More than 70% of participants indicated an interest in daily ongoing PrEP use.ConclusionsEpi-PrEP was well tolerated by at risk MSM in this study, with high levels of medication adherence. Many participants felt the experience of initiating PrEP while on vacation could be a means for transition to long-term PrEP use.

BackgroundWhoonga is a smoked heroin-based street drug that first emerged in South Africa a decade ago. While previous scientific reports suggest that use is growing and youth are particularly vulnerable, trajectories of initiation are not well characterized.MethodsIn 2015, 30 men undergoing residential addiction treatment for this smoked heroin drug in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa participated in semi-structured interviews about their experiences using the drug. Interview data were coded using qualitative content analysis.ResultsParticipant trajectories to initiating smoked heroin were "vertical" in the context of marijuana use or "horizontal" in the context of other hard drug use. Participants reporting vertical trajectories began smoking heroin as youth at school or in other settings where people were smoking marijuana. Several participants with horizontal trajectories started smoking heroin to address symptoms of other drug or alcohol addiction. Social influences on initiation emerged as an overarching theme. Members of participants' social networks who were smoking or distributing heroin figured prominently in initiation narratives. Surprisingly, references to injection drug use were absent from initiation narratives. Participants reported people who smoke heroin differ from those who inject heroin by race.ConclusionConsistent with theories implicating social and structural influences on substance use initiation, people who started smoking heroin had social contacts who smoked heroin and frequented places where substance use was common. Smoked heroin initiation for several participants with horizontal trajectories may have been averted if they accessed evidence-based treatments for stimulant or alcohol use disorders. With increasing reports of heroin use across Africa, a coordinated approach to address this growing epidemic is needed. However, because smoked heroin and injection heroin use occur in distinct risk environments, interventions tailored to people who use smoked heroin will be needed to prevent smoked heroin use, prevent transition to injection use, and mitigate other social harms.

BackgroundPeople who inject drugs (PWID) are at increased risk for HIV acquisition and could benefit from antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, PrEP has been underutilized in this population, and PrEP adherence intervention needs are understudied.MethodsTo inform PrEP intervention development, we reviewed evidence on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among HIV-infected PWID. Guided by a behavioral model of healthcare utilization and using the PICOS framework, we conducted a systematic review in four electronic databases to identify original research studies of ART adherence in HIV-infected PWID in the United States and Canada between Jan 1, 2006-Dec 31, 2016. We synthesized and interpreted findings related to developing recommendations for PrEP adherence interventions for PWID.ResultsAfter excluding 618 duplicates and screening 1049 unique records, we retained 20 studies of PWID (mean n = 465) with adherence-related outcomes (via pharmacy records: n = 9; self-report: n = 8; biological markers: n = 5; electronic monitoring: n = 2). Predisposing factors (patient-level barriers to adherence) included younger age, female sex, and structural vulnerability (e.g., incarceration, homelessness). Enabling resources (i.e., facilitators) that could be leveraged or promoted by interventions included self-efficacy, substance use treatment, and high-quality patient-provider relationships. Competing needs that require specific intervention strategies or adaptations included markers of poor physical health, mental health comorbidities (e.g., depression), and engagement in transactional sex.ConclusionsHIV treatment adherence research carries important lessons for efforts to optimize PrEP adherence among PWID. Despite limitations, this systematic review suggests that strategies are needed to engage highly vulnerable and marginalized sub-groups of this underserved population (e.g., younger PWID, women who inject drugs) in PrEP adherence-related research and programming.

BackgroundHepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is increasingly prevalent among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the context of the current US opioid crisis. Although curative therapy is available and recommended as a public health strategy, few PWID have been treated. We explore PWID narratives that explain why they have not sought HCV treatment or decided against starting it. We then compare these narratives to evidence-based and guideline-concordant information to better enable health, social service, harm reduction providers, PWID, and other stakeholders to dispel misconceptions and improve HCV treatment uptake in this vulnerable population.MethodsWe recruited HIV-uninfected PWID (n = 33) through community-based organizations (CBOs) to participate in semi-structured, in-depth qualitative interviews on topics related to overall health, access to care, and knowledge and interest in specific HIV prevention methods.ResultsIn interviews, HCV transmission and delaying or forgoing HCV treatment emerged as important themes. We identified three predominant narratives relating to delaying or deferring HCV treatment among PWID: (1) lacking concern about HCV being serious or urgent enough to require treatment, (2) recognizing the importance of treatment but nevertheless deciding to delay treatment, and (3) perceiving that clinicians and insurance companies recommend that patients who currently use or inject drugs should delay treatment.ConclusionsOur findings highlight persistent beliefs among PWID that hinder HCV treatment utilization. Given the strong evidence that treatment improves individual health regardless of substance use status while also decreasing HCV transmission in the population, efforts are urgently needed to counter the predominant narratives identified in our study. We provide evidence-based, guideline-adherent information that counters the identified narratives in order to help individuals working with PWID to motivate and facilitate treatment access and uptake. An important strategy to improve HCV treatment initiation among PWID could involve disseminating guideline-concordant counternarratives to PWID and the providers who work with and are trusted by this population.

The effect of non-injection substance use on HIV viral load (VL) is understudied in international settings. Data are from HPTN063, a longitudinal observational study of HIV-infected individuals in Brazil, Thailand, and Zambia, with focus on men with VL data (Brazil = 146; Thailand = 159). Generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) assessed whether non-injection substance use (stimulants, cannabis, alcohol, polysubstance) was associated with VL undetectability. ART adherence and depressive symptoms were examined as mediators of the association. In Thailand, substance use was not significantly associated with VL undetectability or ART adherence, but alcohol misuse among MSM was associated with increased odds of depression (AOR = 2.75; 95% CI 1.20, 6.32, p = 0.02). In Brazil, alcohol misuse by MSM was associated with decreased odds of undetectable VL (AOR = 0.34; 95% CI 0.13, 0.92, p = 0.03). Polysubstance use by heterosexual men in Brazil was associated with decreased odds of ART adherence (AOR = 0.25; 95% CI 0.08, 0.78, p = 0.02). VL suppression appears attainable among non-injection substance users. Substance use interventions among HIV-positive men should address depression, adherence, and VL undetectability.