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Women of color are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Although PrEP effectively prevents HIV infection, PrEP coverage and knowledge remain low in this population. To address barriers to PrEP, we implemented women-centered and culturally appropriate Information Sessions (IS) delivered by staff from the population they serve to increase knowledge, awareness, and use of PrEP through telemedicine (e.g., PlushCare). Our analysis focuses on Latina women (LW) participants, given the dearth of literature dedicated to the needs of LW. We partnered with a woman-led community-based organization (CBO) to implement the strategy with LW clients. Health educators conducted 26 IS with 94 LW (20 in Spanish and 6 in English). Participants who completed the IS were invited for interviews to assess the acceptability and appropriateness of the IS to increase knowledge and awareness of PrEP and PlushCare. Four themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (1) IS increased knowledge and awareness of PrEP and PlushCare; (2) perceived acceptability and appropriateness of IS; (3) insufficient reasons to warrant use of PrEP; and (4) positive attitudes about PlushCare. Our findings suggest that a women-centered and culturally appropriate IS implemented through a trusted, woman-led CBO is an acceptable and appropriate implementation strategy to inform LW about PrEP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background More than 90% of babies acquire HIV/AIDS through vertical transmission, primarily due to low maternal comprehensive knowledge about Mother-To-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV/AIDS and its prevention, which is a cornerstone for eliminating MTCT of HIV/AIDS. However, there are limitations in terms of population data and literature evidence based on recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) reports in East Africa. Therefore, this study aims to assess the comprehensive knowledge and PMTCT of HIV/AIDS among women, as well as the associated factors in East Africa. Methods Our data was obtained from the most recent DHS conducted in East African countries between 2011 and 2022. For our research, we included DHS data from ten nations, resulting in a total weighted sample of 133,724 women for our investigation. A generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link and binomial family to directly estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between the independent variables, and the outcome variable. Finally, we reported the adjusted prevalence ratios along with their corresponding 95% CIs. Factors with p-values ≤ 0.2 for univariate logistic regression and

Background: More than 90% of babies acquire HIV/AIDS through vertical transmission, primarily due to low maternal comprehensive knowledge about Mother-To-Child Transmission (MTCT) of HIV/AIDS and its prevention, which is a cornerstone for eliminating MTCT of HIV/AIDS. However, there are limitations in terms of population data and literature evidence based on recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) reports in East Africa. Therefore, this study aims to assess the comprehensive knowledge and PMTCT of HIV/AIDS among women, as well as the associated factors in East Africa. Methods: Our data was obtained from the most recent DHS conducted in East African countries between 2011 and 2022. For our research, we included DHS data from ten nations, resulting in a total weighted sample of 133,724 women for our investigation. A generalized linear model (GLM) with a log link and binomial family to directly estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between the independent variables, and the outcome variable. Finally, we reported the adjusted prevalence ratios along with their corresponding 95% CIs. Factors with p-values ≤ 0.2 for univariate logistic regression and < 0.05 were considered statistically significant factors of HIV/AIDS knowledge and prevention in the final model. Results: In this study, 59.41% (95% CI: 59.15–59.67) of respondents had a comprehensive knowledge about MTCT of HIV/AIDS and its prevention among reproductive-age women in East Africa. Being in the older age group, better education level, being from a rich household, employment status, having ANC follow up, institutional delivery, and modern contraception usage were associated with higher prevalence ratios of comprehensive knowledge about MTCT of HIV/AIDS and its prevention. However, being single in marital status, rural women, and traditional contraception utilization were associated with lower ratios of comprehensive knowledge about MTCT of HIV/AIDS and its prevention. Conclusion: Our findings indicate a significant deficiency in comprehensive knowledge and prevention of HIV/AIDS MTCT among women in East Africa. These results emphasize the need for significant improvements in maternal-related health services. It is crucial to effectively target high-risk populations during interventions, raise awareness about this critical public health issue, and address the catastrophic consequences associated with MTCT. By implementing these measures, we can make substantial progress in reducing the transmission of HIV/AIDS from mother to child and ensuring better health outcomes for both mothers and their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peer-to-peer chain recruitment has been used for descriptive studies, but few intervention studies have employed it. We used this method to enroll sexually active women ages 18 to 25 into an online Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) information and motivation intervention pilot in eThekwini (Durban), South Africa. Seeds (N = 16) were recruited by study staff and randomized to Masibambane, Ladies Chat, a Gender-Enhanced group-based WhatsApp Workshop (GE), or Individual-Access (IA), a control condition that provided participants with online information/motivation materials only. Each seed could recruit up to three women to participate in the same study condition, with an incentive for each enrolled woman; participants in subsequent waves could choose to recruit or not. We evaluated if peer-to-peer recruitment was self-sustaining and resulted in enrolling women who, in subsequent waves, had less contact with the health care system and less knowledge about PrEP than the initial seeds. Over three recruitment waves beyond the seeds, 84 women were recruited. Almost 90% of women became recruiters, with each recruiting on average 1.90 women and 1.26 eligible enrolled women. The approach was successful at reaching women with less education but not women with less health system contact and PrEP knowledge across waves. IA participants had a slightly higher, though non-significantly different, percentage of individuals who became Peer Health Advocates (PHAs) than GE participants and, on average, they recruited slightly more women who enrolled. Our findings demonstrated that peer-to-peer recruitment is a feasible and self-sustaining way to recruit SA young women into a PrEP intervention study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Mozambique, women are the most affected by HIV/AIDS and heterosexual encounters remain the main route for HIV/AIDS. Condom use is the most effective method of HIV/AIDS prevention, and the intention to use and buy/get condoms has a significant role in safe sex behavior. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of two psychosocial interventions – the Didactic and ACCENT Interventions – to prevent HIV/AIDS among Mozambican Women. Participants were Mozambican women (n = 150), users of the gynecology clinic of the Central Hospital of Beira. The study design was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with assignment to three groups: Didactic intervention, ACCENT intervention, and Control group. Measures were from an adaption of the Women's Health Questionnaire, which includes questions about sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral variables related to HIV prevention/risk. There was a significant group effect on condom use and safer sex preparatory behaviors, F(2, 146) = 6.45, p =.002, with Bonferroni post-hoc tests showing differences between the ACCENT vs. Control groups and ACCENT vs. Didactic groups (all p =.022). There were no statistically significant time effects on both condom use and safer sex preparatory behaviors. Results are promising for HIV/AIDS prevention in Mozambican women at sexual risk, but replication is needed for generalizability of findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Przegląd Pedagogiczny is the property of Kazimierza Wielki University in Bydgoszcz and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Despite the recognized links between food insecurity, poverty, and the risk of HIV/AIDS, few randomized trials have evaluated the impact of livelihood interventions on HIV risk behaviors. The current study draws upon data collected from a qualitative process evaluation that was embedded into a pilot randomized controlled trial that tested whether a multisectoral agricultural intervention (Shamba Maisha) affected the HIV-related health of HIV-positive adults in rural Kenya. In the current study, we drew upon longitudinal, in-depth interviews with 45 intervention participants and nine control participants (N = 54) in order to examine the impacts of the intervention on gendered power and sexual risk reduction among both women and men. Female and male participants in the intervention described positive changes in sexual practices and gendered power dynamics as a result of intervention participation. Changes included reduced sexual risk behaviors, improved gender-related power dynamics, and enhanced quality of intimate relationships. These findings illuminate how a multisectoral agricultural intervention may affect inequitable gender relations and secondary transmission risk. Further research is needed to explore how to best leverage agricultural interventions to address the important intersections between poverty and inequitable gender relations that shape HIV risks.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection remains prevalent among the marginalized and drug using population in the United States. Testing for HIV is an important and cost-effective way to reduce HIV prevalence. Our objective was to determine if there is a difference in the number of HIV testing by injection status among users of illicit drugs and if a person's social network characteristics is a contributing factor. Using a cross-sectional design and negative binomial regression models, we assessed HIV testing behavior of people who use non-injected drugs (PWND) compared to people who use injected drugs (PWID). In an analytic sample of 539 participants, PWND tested for HIV 19% less compared to PWID, PR (95% CI) = 0.81 (0.66, 0.98), p = 0.03. Other contributing factors of testing were education, condomless sex, STIs, heroin use, and participant's sex network. The interaction term between PWND and emotional support in relation to HIV testing was significant, 1.33 (1.03, 1.69), p=0.03. These findings suggest HIV testing behavior differed by injection status, and this relationship may be dependent on emotional support. To exert a greater impact on the HIV epidemic, interventions and policies encouraging HIV testing in PWND, an understudied at-risk sub-population, are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wondimagegn Wondimu,1 Adane Asefa,1 Qaro Qanche,2 Tadesse Nigussie,3 Tewodros Yosef1 1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Aman, Ethiopia; 2Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Aman, Ethiopia; 3Department of Reproductive Health and Nutrition, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Aman, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Wondimagegn WondimuMizan-Tepi University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, PO Box: 260, Mizan Aman, EthiopiaEmail wonde1983.ww@gmail.comBackground: Although in Ethiopia there is a high burden of HIV/AIDS, the community knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS prevention has not been investigated adequately. Thus, this study assessed the determinants of the community knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS prevention in the Majang zone which is the zone with the highest HIV prevalence in Ethiopia.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Majang zone, southwest Ethiopia from March 1st to May 31st, 2019 by including randomly selected 845 adults. Knowledge and attitude towards HIV prevention methods were dependent variables. The independent variables include socio-demographic characteristics and behavioral factors. A binary logistic regression was employed to determine the association using the odds ratio at 95% confidence intervals. A p-value of less than 5% was considered to declare the final significance.Results: Of 845 respondents recruited, 772 participated yielding a 91.4% response rate. Not sharing contaminated sharp materials (63.4%), consistent condom use (61.2%), and abstinence (57.9%) were the prevention methods mentioned by majority of the respondents. Only two of five respondents (39.6%) had good HIV prevention knowledge. More than half [412 (53.4%)] of the respondents had a positive attitude towards HIV prevention. The independent determinants of HIV prevention knowledge were secondary educational status (AOR=1.84; 95% CI=1.04, 3.24), tertiary and above educational status (AOR=2.01; 95% CI=1.07, 3.75) and positive HIV prevention attitude (AOR=1.89; 95% CI=1.39, 2.57). Similarly, age of greater than 27 years (AOR=2.13; 95% CI=1.55, 2.95) and good HIV prevention knowledge (AOR=1.83; 95% CI=1.35, 2.48) were significantly associated with a positive HIV prevention attitude.Conclusion: This study revealed insufficient HIV prevention knowledge and attitude in the community with the highest HIV prevalence. To achieve the goal of ending the HIV epidemic, health education should be considered using different innovative approaches especially by prioritizing young and less educated individuals.Keywords: HIV/AIDS prevention, knowledge, attitude, Majang, Ethiopia

The recent increase in social media use allows these technologies to rapidly reach communities with higher HIV prevalence, such as African-American and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM). However, no studies have looked at HIV/AIDS stigma among social media users from African-American and Latino MSM communities, or the association between stigma and social media use among these groups. This study sought to assess the level of HIV/AIDS stigma among a sample of social media-using African-American and Latino MSM from Los Angeles. A total of 112 (primarily African-American and Latino, n = 98, 88%) MSM Facebook users completed a survey on demographics, online social network use, and HIV/AIDS stigma. A composite stigma score was created by taking the cumulative score from a 15-item stigma questionnaire. Cumulative logistic models were used to assess the association between HIV/AIDS stigma and online social network use. In general, participants reported a low level of HIV/AIDS stigma (mean = 22.2/75, SD = 5.74). HIV/AIDS stigma composite score was significantly associated with increased time spent on online social networks each day (Adjusted odds ratios (AOR): 1.07, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.15). Among this diverse sample of MSM online social network users, findings suggest that HIV/AIDS stigma is associated with usage of social media. We discuss the implications of this work for future HIV prevention.

Social networking technologies have emerged as potential platforms to reach HIV(+) MSM in HIV interventions. This study sought to compare use of online social networking sites (SNSs) and sexual risk behaviors between HIV(+) and HIV(-) individuals among a sample of predominately African American and Latino SNS-using MSM. A total of 112 MSM Facebook users were recruited online and offline and completed an online survey. We performed regression models to assess the association between HIV status, SNS use, and sexual risk behaviors. After adjusting for age, race, and employment status, being HIV positive was significantly associated with a greater number of sexual partners (ARR = 2.84, p = 0.0017) and lower comfort levels of discussing HIV/STI status on SNSs (AOR: 0.23, p = 0.011). Findings suggest that HIV status is associated with sexual risk behaviors and SNS use among SNS-using MSM. We discuss the implications for online HIV prevention.

Although health communication research on the effects of a radio soap opera on HIV/AIDS prevention in Tanzania was groundbreaking, it was conducted from individualistic and Western perspectives that either ignored Tanzania's cultural context or implicitly conflated it with barriers to health; furthermore, adult HIV/AIDS prevalence rates in Tanzania and other nations of Africa remain the highest in the world. This study of HIV/AIDS prevention in Tanzania drew on the PEN-3 cultural model to foreground the cultural contexts of HIV/AIDS. Interviews with 36 leaders of community-based HIV/AIDS non-governmental organizations in Dar es Salaam pointed to the PEN-3 dimension of 'nurturers' (i.e., cultural practices in families and marriages). Through a PEN-3 assessment that crossed this dimension with the 'cultural empowerment' domain, the study found the positive nurturers of changing circumcision practices and rites of passage before marriages, the existential nurturers of privacy in the African extended family and grandparents caring for people living with HIV/AIDS, and the negative nurturers of families (e.g., female genital mutilation), marriages (e.g., arranged marriages of young girls), and late-night celebrations. The study concludes with implications for research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ContextHIV/AIDS in the United States continues to primarily impact men who have sex with men (MSM), with disproportionately high rates among black MSM.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to identify factors that may influence engagement and retention of black MSM in HIV research.Design and participantsThis was a qualitative evaluation of study implementation within a multisite, prospective, observational study (HIV Prevention Trials Network 061, BROTHERS) that enrolled 1553 black MSM in 6 cities throughout the United States. Data collection for this evaluation included a written, structured survey collected from each of the sites describing site characteristics including staff and organizational structure, reviews of site standard operating procedures, and work plans; semistructured key informant interviews were conducted with site coordinators to characterize staffing, site-level factors facilitating or impeding effective community engagement, study recruitment, and retention. Data from completed surveys and site standard operating procedures were collated, and notes from key informant interviews were thematically coded for content by 2 independent reviewers.ResultsSeveral key themes emerged from the data, including the importance of inclusion of members of the community being studied as staff, institutional hiring practices that support inclusive staffing, cultivating a supportive working environment for study implementation, and ongoing relationships between research institutions and community.ConclusionsThis study underscores the importance of staffing in implementing research with black MSM. Investigators should consider how staffing and organizational structures affect implementation during study design and when preparing to initiate study activities. Ongoing monitoring of community engagement can inform and improve methods for engagement and ensure cultural relevance while removing barriers for participation.

HIV/AIDS has developed into a global health problem, including in Indonesia. The highest cumulative percentage of AIDS cases by way of transmission in Indonesia is through unprotected sex. Populations at high risk for HIV/AIDS transmission are gay (homosexual). This study aims to determine the description of HIV/AIDS prevention behavior and factors affecting the community of men who have sex with men. This study uses a cross-sectional design. The research sample was 79 male sex men in the city of Jambi. The sampling technique was purposive aside. Data were collected by interview using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed statistically using the chi-square test. Of the 79 respondents whose behavior of HIV/AIDS prevention was not good enough as many as 40 respondents (50.6%). 34 respondents (43.0%) had poor knowledge. Respondents whose attitudes were not good were 41 respondents (51.9%). 42 respondents (53.2%) had poor motivation. Statistical test results show that there is no relationship of knowledge with p-value= 0.177, and there is a relationship between attitude and p-value= 0.005 and there is a relationship of motivation with p-value= 0.000 HIV/AIDS prevention behavior in the community of men who have sex with men. The conclusion of the study is attitude and motivation are variables related to HIV/AIDS prevention behavior in the community of men who have sex with men.

In 2019, 1.1 to 2.4 million adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 were living with HIV worldwide. In Thailand, there were approximately 5,400 new HIV cases among children and adolescents between the ages of 10 to 19 as a result of unprotected sex. This study, using 2-group pretest-posttest and repeated measures quasi-experimental design, examined the effects of the nurse's support for the adolescents-led HIV/AIDS sexual transmission prevention program using social media on behavioral intention and perceived effectiveness of HIV/AIDS preventive behaviors among adolescents with HIV/AIDS. The study was conducted from April 2016 to July 2017. Purposive sampling was performed to recruit 70 adolescents with HIV/AIDS. The data were collected before day 1 and after receiving the program on days 15 and 30. The program and questionnaires were validated by 3 experts. The reliabilities of the behavioral intentions and perceived effectiveness of HIV/AIDS preventive behaviors questionnaires were examined, yielding Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.80 and 0.96 respectively. Data were analyzed using a Friedman-test, a Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test, and a Mann-Whitney U-test. Results revealed that there were significant differences in the overall mean ranks of behavioral intention and perceived effectiveness of HIV/AIDS preventive behaviors at the baseline, on days 15 and 30 in the experimental group (p < 0.001) whereas there were no significant differences in the control group (p > 0.05). There were significant differences in the mean ranks of behavioral intention and perceived effectiveness of HIV/AIDS preventive behaviors measured on days 15 and 30 between the control and experimental groups (p < 0.001). Thus, nurses implementing a social media program for adolescents with HIV/AIDS may have a significantly positive impact on sexual transmission prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the differences in condom use and related factors among rural–urban men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Chongqing, Sichuan, and Guangxi, which recruited MSM by non-probability sampling. Data were collected through an anonymous, standardized, and self-reported questionnaire guided by an information–motivation–behavioral skills model. Structural equation model was applied to analyze the related factors. Out of the 1141 MSM included in this analysis, 856 (75%) and 285 (25%) were from urban and rural areas, respectively. The median age was 27 years for both groups. Self-reported consistent condom use for anal sex in the past 6 months was 57.58%. The rate of consistent condom use was lower in rural MSM than in urban MSM (50.88% vs. 59.81%, p =.008). Behavioral skills, HIV/AIDS intervention services, and response costs had direct positive and negative influences on condom use, respectively. By contrast, motivation and information exhibited indirect influence. All the factors were mediated by behavioral skills in rural and urban MSM, except for the information that had no effect among urban MSM but had an indirect effect among rural MSM. These findings suggest that service providers should pay attention to substantial rural–urban differences and design different AIDS prevention and intervention strategies targeting rural and urban MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers increasingly argue that poverty and gender inequality exacerbate the spread of HIV/AIDS and that economic empowerment can therefore assist in the prevention and mitigation of the disease, particularly for women. This paper critically evaluates such claims. First, we examine the promises and limits of integrated HIV/AIDS prevention and microfinance programs by examining the available evidence base. We then propose future research agendas and next steps that may help to clear current ambiguities about the potential for economic programs to contribute to HIV/AIDS risk reduction efforts.

Vulnerability to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection among factory workers is a global problem. This study investigated the effectiveness of an intervention to increase AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use among young factory workers in Thailand. The intervention was a workplace program designed to engage the private sector in HIV prevention. A cross-sectional survey conducted in 2008 to measure program outcomes in factories in Thailand was used in this study. The workplace intervention included the development of policies for management of HIV-positive employees, training sessions for managers and workers, and distribution of educational materials and condoms. A multi-level analysis was used to investigate the effect of HIV/AIDS prevention program components at the workplace on HIV/AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use with regular sexual partners among 699 young factory workers (aged 18–24 years), controlling for their individual socio-demographic characteristics. Interventions related to the management and services component including workplace AIDS policy formulation, condom services programs and behavioral change campaigns were found to be significantly related to increased AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use with regular partners. The effect of the HIV/AIDS training for managers, peer leaders and workers was positive but not statistically significant. With some revision of program components, scaling up of workplace interventions and the engagement of the private sector in HIV prevention should be seriously considered.

Florida has the highest number of PLWH in the USA, with the highest incidence being among young African-Americans. The purpose of this qualitative inquiry was to gain an understanding of the knowledge and attitudes to HIV/AIDS among Afro-Caribbean adolescents. Using a faith-based community, we conducted four focus group sessions with 40 Afro-Caribbean teens. Descriptive content and thematic analyses were used to examine the data. Themes identified include awareness gap, temptation everywhere, testing anxiety and stigma. Recommendations include continued exploration and interventions to address stigma in faith-based communities. Implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technology provides new possibilities for disseminating effective prevention programming to underserved families, such as those residing in rural communities. The present study is an evaluation of a technology-delivered HIV risk prevention program designed for rural African-American families, Pathways for African American Success (PAAS), to determine its promise for increasing access to evidence-based youth risk prevention programs among those in the greatest need. Four hundred and twelve parent/youth dyads were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (1) in-person facilitator-led PAAS small group, (2) self-directed PAAS technology, or (3) a literature control with home-mailed educational materials. Compared with families in the literature control condition, families assigned to the PAAS technology or small group conditions demonstrated significantly stronger intervention induced parent–child protective processes (e.g., enhanced discussion quality, clearly articulated norms, and parental expectations about risk engagement) and lower youth intentions to engage in risky behaviors 6 months postintervention. Although some important nuances were noted, this study suggests that the PAAS technology–delivered modality is just as efficacious as the in-person facilitator-led, small group modality in dissuading HIV-related risk behaviors among rural African-American youths. Implications for having a menu of service delivery models that address the diverse needs and contexts of families are discussed, including the promise of technology as an alternative modality for reaching populations often characterized as difficult to reach and to engage in family-based preventive interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to describe the sexual behaviour and HIV/AIDS risk perception in two cohorts of Spanish university students. A cross-sectional design of two cohorts was employed. A total of 230 university students in 2004 (Mage=19.77; SD=1.73; 72.6% females) and 264 in 2012 (Mage=19.47; SD=1.73; 73.5% females) were recruited. A self-developed questionnaire on sexual behaviour was administered. A MANOVA per cohort, gender and age was performed. The results revealed that there were no differences between the cohorts regarding sexual practices. About one-fifth of sexually active young people used condoms regularly but not always, around one-sixth sometimes or never used them, half of the respondents did not usually require their sexual partners to take an HIV test and only the ten percent had ever undergone it. Three quarters of the subjects perceived some degree of invulnerability to HIV/AIDS. Spanish females perceived themselves more invulnerable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study presents a comparison of four different livelihood programmes for refugee women, offered by Refugee Social Services, a Durban-based non-governmental organisation. These programmes cover home-based childcare, peer/community education, beauty salons, and product development. The first two programmes are social innovative as these directly and creatively respond to social needs of local communities in Durban. Examples of community demands are the need for childcare and HIV/AIDS prevention. The latter two programmes mainly focus on gaining economic advantages. The research methodology is qualitative, 18 in-depth interviews were conducted with ten staff members and eight clients of Refugee Social Services. The capability approach was applied to identify and review enhancing and impairing aspects of the programmes with regard to the refugee women's capabilities and human agency to self-settle in an urban context. The enhancing factors include training, support to start up and maintain a micro-business, a safe and child-friendly workspace, integrational benefits of enhanced social capital, and income security. The impairing factors include institutional barriers, an unsafe workspace, and insufficient and/or unstable income. The paper makes suggestions for interpreting the outcomes of the programme comparison. The study highlights that in order to effectively expand refugees' capabilities and human agency to self-settle in an urban context, stakeholders should start partnerships while advocating for a combination of two intervention strategies: implementing validated livelihood programmes and addressing structural obstacles to refugees' ability to become self-reliant. Recommendations are proposed to fulfil these objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Kesmas: National Public Health Journal is the property of Universitas Indonesia, Faculty of Public Health and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Latinas in farmworker communities are at particularly higher risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to the vulnerable circumstances they experience. However, little is known about the factors influencing HIV prevention behaviors in this population. The aim of this study was to examine the associations of self-silencing behaviors and egalitarian attitudes toward women in relation to three HIV prevention behaviors: self-efficacy for HIV prevention, intentions to negotiate safe sex, and HIV-related knowledge. This study is a cross-sectional analysis that used hierarchical multiple regression models to examine these previously mentioned associations, among Latina immigrant farmworkers from Miami-Dade County, Florida (n = 232). Findings indicated that self-silencing behaviors were adversely associated with the three HIV preventive behaviors whereas egalitarian attitudes were positively associated. Findings from this study may help to advance the understanding of sociocultural determinants of HIV prevention behaviors among Latina immigrants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Randomized trials have shown that voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) significantly reduces HIV acquisition risk in men. We sought to identify subpopulations of Botswanan men with high levels of VMMC uptake by comparing an observational cohort of men presenting for circumcision services at two high-volume clinics in Botswana's capital city, Gabo-rone, with a matched, population-based random sample of uncircumcised men. Among these high uptake VMMC subpopulations, we then examined the immediate factors that play a role in men's decision to seek VMMC services. As compared to their population-based controls, men choosing to undergo circumcision were more likely to be ages 24–34, more highly educated, to have a religious affiliation, and in a serious relationship. Our results suggest that married men and highly educated men were more likely to pursue circumcision for personal hygiene reasons. These findings have direct implications for targeted demand creation and mobilization activities to increase VMMC uptake in Botswana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiological surveillance has played a key role in the identification of AIDS and its modes of transmission. In India, laboratory-based surveillance of HIV was initiated among most at-risk populations in 1990s, which was later expanded to antenatal clinics. On the basis of surveillance, high risk geographic areas and high risk populations were identified; and preventive behaviour change interventions were targeted among high risk groups in mid1990s. In 2003, analysis of surveillance data revealed a declining trend in HIV. Further analysis, indicated that targeted sexual behaviour change interventions among high risk groups had been responsible for the decline. The targeted behaviour change strategy among high risk groups was also found to be cost-effective. In the era of anti-retroviral therapy (ART), HIV prevalence trends would no longer be useful for tracking the epidemic. Hence, new laboratory essays are needed for tracking HIV incidence. Verbal autopsy method can provide direct estimates of HIV mortality trends to evaluate the effectiveness of ART. Since the number of new HIV infections is showing plateauing trend, further intensification of HIV/AIDS prevention and control efforts is required to achieve the end of HIV transmission and deaths due to AIDS by 2030.

Background: The female condoms are a barrier method of contraception. The FC1 female condom is made from soft thin plastic called polyurethane and has been replaced by FC2 female condom, which is made of synthetic latex. The female condom is worn inside the vagina and acts as a barrier to prevent semen getting to the womb. It is about 75% – 82% effective with normal use. When used correctly all of the time, female condoms are 95% effective. Despite evidence of its effectiveness, the use of the female condom has continued to face resistance from both women and men. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine clients’ level of knowledge of female condom, identify predominant methods of contraception, examine young women’s views regarding the female condom and identify barriers to the use of female condoms by young women. Method: A simple random sampling approach was used to recruit young women between 15 and 34 years in Jwaneng, Botswana. Data were collected using self-administered structured questionnaire from women accessing healthcare services in the three health facilities in 2015. Descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis and the chi-square test techniques were applied using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical programme version 23 for Windows to analyse data. Results: The findings based on factor loadings show low utilisation of the female condom and highlights the significant challenges about the material, size, shape and timing of insertion. Respondents had stronger views on the structure of the condom. There was no significant relationship between attitude and method of contraception. Conclusion: Acceptability of the female condom involves complex factors such as women position and decision-making power in a relationship, attitude and knowledge. Attitude, knowledge and power relations play a role in the extent to which women would want to try or use it. Various strategies need to be developed to effectively promote the female condom amongst young women.

Of the two million people estimated to be newly infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) every year, 95% live in poorer regions of the world where effective HIV treatment is not universally available. Strategies to reduce the spread of HIV infection, which predominantly occurs via sexual contact, are urgently required. In the absence of an effective vaccine, a number of approaches to prevent HIV infection have been developed. These include using potent anti-HIV drugs prophylactically, either through systemic administration or topical application to the mucosal tissues that HIV initially encounters during sexual transmission. Genetic deficiency of the chemokine receptor CCR5 provides individuals with a remarkable degree of protection from HIV acquisition. This is because CCR5 is the major coreceptor used by HIV to infect new target cells. Since CCR5 deficiency does not appear to carry any health disadvantages, targeting the receptor is a promising strategy for both therapy and prevention of HIV. In this review we first describe the advantages and limitations of the currently available strategies for HIV prevention, then we focus on strategies targeting CCR5, covering the progress that has been made in developing different classes of CCR5 inhibitors for prophylaxis, and the perspectives for their future development as new weapons in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

This research analyzes many factors that influence the behavior so that can prevent HIV/AIDS by using condom consistently in group of truck driver who usually stay for awhile in the truck stop area. Descriptive co relational used in this research, with the cross sectional approach. Total technique sampling is used to recruit 50 samples. Data has been collected using a questioner and been analyzed using a chi square test. The result of this study reveals there is a relationship between a knowledge (p = 0,001), perception (p=0,001), condom availability (p=0,001) and role of health services (p=0,001) with the behavior of preventing HIV/AIDS. Based on logistic regression test, the most influence factor in using condom consistently is knowledge.

Copyright of Kesmas: National Public Health Journal is the property of Universitas Indonesia, Faculty of Public Health and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in the United States are disproportionately affected by HIV, and there have been calls to improve availability of culturally sensitive HIV prevention programs for this population. This article provides a systematic review of intervention programs to reduce condomless sex and/or increase HIV testing among Latino MSM. We searched four electronic databases using a systematic review protocol, screened 1777 unique records, and identified ten interventions analyzing data from 2871 Latino MSM. Four studies reported reductions in condomless anal intercourse, and one reported reductions in number of sexual partners. All studies incorporated surface structure cultural features such as bilingual study recruitment, but the incorporation of deep structure cultural features, such as machismo and sexual silence, was lacking. There is a need for rigorously designed interventions that incorporate deep structure cultural features in order to reduce HIV among Latino MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the expansion of couples' voluntary HIV counseling and testing (CVCT) in urban Zambia, there is a growing need to evaluate CVCT provider trainings to ensure that couples are receiving quality counseling and care. We evaluated provider knowledge scores, pre- and post-training and predictors of pre- and post-training test scores. Providers operating in 67 government clinics in four Copperbelt Province cities were trained from 2008 to 2013 in three domains: counseling, rapid HIV laboratory testing and data management. Trainees received pre- and post-training tests on domain-specific topics. Pre- and post-training test scores were tabulated by provider demographics and training type, and paired t -tests evaluated differences in pre- and post-training test scores. Multivariable ANCOVA determined predictors of pre- and post-training test scores. We trained 1226 providers, and average test scores increased from 68.8% pre-training to 83.8% post-training (p  <   0.001). Test scores increased significantly for every demographic group and training type (p  <   0.001) with one exception—test scores did not significantly increase for those receiving counseling or data management training who had less than a high school education. In multivariable analysis, higher educational level and having a medical background were predictive of a higher pre-test score; higher pre-test scores and having a medical background were predictive of higher post-test scores. Pre- and post-test assessments are critical to ensure quality services, particularly as task-shifting from medical to lay staff becomes more common. Assessments showed that our CVCT trainings are successful at increasing knowledge, and that those with lower education may benefit from repeat trainings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men who have sex with men (MSM) face a disproportionate burden of HIV incidence and HIV prevalence, particularly young men who have sex with men. The aim of this article was to analyze the relation between a psychological temporal perspective and HIV/sexually transmitted infection (STI) risk behaviors among male sex workers (MSWs), a potentially highly present-oriented group of MSM. A total sample of 326 MSWs were included and responded to a validated psychological scale: the Zimbardo's Time Perspective Inventory; they also reported how frequently they engaged in protective behaviors against HIV and other STI risks behaviors, including condom use with casual and regular partners, as well as prior HIV testing. We adjusted structural equation models to analyze the relation between a psychological temporal perspective and HIV/STI risk behaviors. We found that orientation toward the past was correlated with decreased condom use with casual partners (β = - 0.18; CI95% - 0.23, - 0.12). Future orientation was not associated with condom use with casual partners. Regarding condom use with regular partners, past and present orientation were related to lower likelihood of condom use (β = - 0.23; CI95% - 0.29, - 0.17; β = - 0.11; CI95% - 0.19, - 0.02), whereas future orientation increased the likelihood of condom use with regular partners (β = 0.40; CI95% 0.31, 0.50). Time orientation (past, present, or future) did not predict the probability of having an HIV test. The design of HIV/STI prevention programs among vulnerable populations, such as MSM and MSWs, should consider specific time-frame mechanisms that can importantly affect sexual risk behavior decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vulnerability to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection among factory workers is a global problem. This study investigated the effectiveness of an intervention to increase AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use among young factory workers in Thailand. The intervention was a workplace program designed to engage the private sector in HIV prevention. A cross-sectional survey conducted in 2008 to measure program outcomes in factories in Thailand was used in this study. The workplace intervention included the development of policies for management of HIV-positive employees, training sessions for managers and workers, and distribution of educational materials and condoms. A multi-level analysis was used to investigate the effect of HIV/AIDS prevention program components at the workplace on HIV/AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use with regular sexual partners among 699 young factory workers (aged 18–24 years), controlling for their individual socio-demographic characteristics. Interventions related to the management and services component including workplace AIDS policy formulation, condom services programs and behavioral change campaigns were found to be significantly related to increased AIDS knowledge, perceived accessibility to condoms and condom use with regular partners. The effect of the HIV/AIDS training for managers, peer leaders and workers was positive but not statistically significant. With some revision of program components, scaling up of workplace interventions and the engagement of the private sector in HIV prevention should be seriously considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We estimate costs and their predictors for three HIV prevention interventions in Kenya: HIV testing and counselling (HTC), prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) and voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC). As part of the 'Optimizing the Response of Prevention: HIV Efficiency in Africa' (ORPHEA) project, we collected retrospective data from government and non-governmental health facilities for 2011-12. We used multi-stage sampling to determine a sample of health facilities by type, ownership, size and interventions offered totalling 144 sites in 78 health facilities in 33 districts across Kenya. Data sources included key informants, registers and time-motion observation methods. Total costs of production were computed using both quantity and unit price of each input. Average cost was estimated by dividing total cost per intervention by number of clients accessing the intervention. Multivariate regression methods were used to analyse predictors of log-transformed average costs. Average costs were $7 and $79 per HTC and PMTCT client tested, respectively; and $66 per VMMC procedure. Results show evidence of economies of scale for PMTCT and VMMC: increasing the number of clients per year by 100% was associated with cost reductions of 50% for PMTCT, and 45% for VMMC. Task shifting was associated with reduced costs for both PMTCT (59%) and VMMC (54%). Costs in hospitals were higher for PMTCT (56%) in comparison to non-hospitals. Facilities that performed testing based on risk factors as opposed to universal screening had higher HTC average costs (79%). Lower VMMC costs were associated with availability of male reproductive health services (59%) and presence of community advisory board (52%). Aside from increasing production scale, HIV prevention costs may be contained by using task shifting, non-hospital sites, service integration and community supervision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to higher perceived risks of HIV infection in the education sectors, many sub-Sahara African countries have school- and community-based HIV/AIDS awareness (SCBHA) and school-based HIV/AIDS support (SBHS) initiatives. Using ordinal logistic and Rasch scaling, this study utilizes the Southern and Eastern Africa Consortium for Monitoring Educational Quality (SACMEQ) data to predict the strength and direction of the associations between school- and community-based initiatives and the perceived risk of HIV infection reported by head teachers. Findings indicate SCBHA and SBHS significantly predict the odds of the perceived risk of HIV/AIDS infection. Sociodemographic and contextual factors confound some of the associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of AIDS & Behavior is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Despite the recognized links between food insecurity, poverty, and the risk of HIV/AIDS, few randomized trials have evaluated the impact of livelihood interventions on HIV risk behaviors. The current study draws upon data collected from a qualitative process evaluation that was embedded into a pilot randomized controlled trial that tested whether a multisectoral agricultural intervention (Shamba Maisha) affected the HIV-related health of HIV-positive adults in rural Kenya. In the current study, we drew upon longitudinal, in-depth interviews with 45 intervention participants and nine control participants (N = 54) in order to examine the impacts of the intervention on gendered power and sexual risk reduction among both women and men. Female and male participants in the intervention described positive changes in sexual practices and gendered power dynamics as a result of intervention participation. Changes included reduced sexual risk behaviors, improved gender-related power dynamics, and enhanced quality of intimate relationships. These findings illuminate how a multisectoral agricultural intervention may affect inequitable gender relations and secondary transmission risk. Further research is needed to explore how to best leverage agricultural interventions to address the important intersections between poverty and inequitable gender relations that shape HIV risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored HIV prevention and prevalence knowledge, awareness and utilization of testing services, factors encouraging testing, perceptions of risk for HIV/AIDS, whether friends discuss and encourage safe-sex practices among African-American women (n = 176) at a historically black university. In this cross-sectional survey, participants attended a 90-minute HIV informational session before being administered a questionnaire. A majority of participants agreed their sexual behaviors increased their risk for HIV infection, and approximately one-fourth considered themselves at high risk. Participants reported that friends discuss and encourage safe-sex practices. Friendship may be a mobilizing component of HIV prevention among female African-American college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIV stigma continues to be a major challenge to addressing HIV/AIDS in various countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including Mozambique. This paper explores the multidimensional nature of HIV stigma through the thematic analysis of five qualitative studies conducted in high HIV prevalence provinces in Mozambique between 2009 and 2012. These studies included 23 interviews with people living with HIV (PLHIV) (10 women and 13 men); 6 focus groups with 32 peer educators (24 women and 8 men) working for community-based organisations (CBOs) providing services to PLHIV; 17 focus groups with community members (72 men and 70 women); 6 interviews (4 women and 2 men) with people who had family members living with HIV/AIDS; 24 focus groups (12 with men and 12 with women) and 6 interviews with couples. Our findings indicate that HIV stigma is a barrier to HIV testing and counselling, status disclosure, partner notification, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) access and adherence, and that moral stigma seems to be more common than physical stigma. Additionally, the findings highlight that HIV stigma is a dynamic social process that is conceptualised as being tied to personal responsibility. To effectively diminish HIV stigma in Mozambique, future interventions should address moral stigma and re-conceptualise HIV as a chronic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although HIV is identified as a family disease, the overall response to the global HIV epidemic continues to predominantly focus on individuals. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how the role of the family in HIV prevention is perceived by community-based stakeholders. Understanding the role of the family within the context of the HIV/AIDS is essential for community/public health nurses. In total, 34 stakeholders participated in the study. Three major categories were identified namely: fostering positive intra-familial relations, utilizing external resources, and barriers to family roles. The study findings have implications for community-based HIV family interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article uncovers the relevance to practice of behavioural and social determinant models of HIV prevention among Yoruba women in Nigeria. Exploring what factors influence health behaviour in heterosexual relationships, the key question raised was whether the women’s experiences support the assumptions and prescriptions for action of these two dominant public health models. Eight focus group discussions and 39 in-depth interviews were conducted, which involved 121 women and men who were chosen purposefully and through self-nomination technique. This study revealed that the women were very much constrained by social environments in negotiating safe sex, despite having at least a basic knowledge of HIV prevention. Limiting factors included the fear of relationship breakup, economic dependence, violence, and the difficulties in justifying why they feel the need to insist on condom use, especially since initiating condom use is antithetical to trust. Furthermore, evidence suggested that improved access to income and education might be vital but it does not automatically constitute a direct means of empowering women to prevent HIV infection. The limitations of both behavioural and social determinants perspectives thus suggests the need for a combination prevention model, which focuses on how social, behavioural and biomedical factors overlap in shaping health outcomes.

The article presents an experiment we made to investigate the effects of HIV/AIDS communication campaigns using “mini-acts” accomplished via Internet. Based on the theories of persuasive and committing communication, the results, which are based on nearly 200 participants, show effects on attitude accessibility and behavior towards AIDS prevention. The article emphasizes the theorical and methodological implications for research in Information and Communication Sciences.

Purpose: HIV/AIDS is a major public health issue. Studies have shown that young people between the ages of 15 to 24 years accounts for more than 40% of new HIV infections. However, new infections could be prevented if the desired impact is made on young people through interventions such as effective peer education program to improve their knowledge, attitude and practice. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the impact of peer education vis-a-vis attitudinal changes and practices on issues relating to HIV/AIDS among youths in North central Nigeria. Methods: This classical experimental study was carried out in three stages, that is: pre-intervention, intervention and post-intervention stages among students of Government High School, Ilorin between the ages of 15 and 24 years. The sample size was 80 students each for study and control groups. Proportional gender distribution was ensured in the selection and the sampling technique was multistage sampling technique. Data collection was through semi structured self administered pre and post evaluation questionnaire. Peer education training and forth night mentoring sessions was conducted for the study group. Impact of the intervention was assessed after eight weeks. Results: Analysis of the result shows that out of the sixteen questions asked on respondents‟ attitude, only four showed statistical significance between the study and control group before the intervention which shot up to eleven after intervention. Also, the frequency of those having bad practices regarding prevention of HIV/AIDS also reduced after intervention. This reduction was much more in many instances when compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study has revealed that peer education training among youth can go a long way in educating them on issues relating to HIV/AIDS prevention. It can also bring about attitudinal changes and better practices that may help in reducing incidence and prevalence of HIV/AIDS in our society.