Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease

Research

Jump to: Review

13 pages, 1273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends of HIV-Related Cancer Mortality between 2001 and 2018: An Observational Analysis

by Chinmay Jani, Omar Al Omari, Harpreet Singh, Alexander Walker, Kripa Patel, Christian Mouchati, Amr Radwan, Zuha Pandit, Georgina Hanbury, Conor Crowley, Dominic C. Marshall, Richard Goodall, Joseph Shalhoub, Justin D. Salciccioli and Umit Tapan

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2021, 6(4), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6040213 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3043

Abstract

The burden of AIDS-defining cancers has remained relatively steady for the past two decades, whilst the burden of non-AIDS-defining cancer has increased. Here, we conduct a study to describe mortality trends attributed to HIV-associated cancers in 31 countries. We extracted HIV-related cancer mortality [...] Read more.

The burden of AIDS-defining cancers has remained relatively steady for the past two decades, whilst the burden of non-AIDS-defining cancer has increased. Here, we conduct a study to describe mortality trends attributed to HIV-associated cancers in 31 countries. We extracted HIV-related cancer mortality data from 2001 to 2018 from the World Health Organization Mortality Database. We computed age-standardized death rates (ASDRs) per 100,000 population using the World Standard Population. Data were visualized using Locally Weighted Scatterplot Smoothing (LOWESS). Data for females were available for 25 countries. Overall, there has been a decrease in mortality attributed to HIV-associated cancers among most of the countries. In total, 18 out of 31 countries (58.0%) and 14 out of 25 countries (56.0%) showed decreases in male and female mortality, respectively. An increasing mortality trend was observed in many developing countries, such as Malaysia and Thailand, and some developed countries, such as the United Kingdom. Malaysia had the greatest increase in male mortality (+495.0%), and Canada had the greatest decrease (−88.5%). Thailand had the greatest increase in female mortality (+540.0%), and Germany had the greatest decrease (−86.0%). At the endpoint year, South Africa had the highest ASDRs for both males (16.8/100,000) and females (19.2/100,000). The lowest was in Japan for males (0.07/100,000) and Egypt for females (0.028/100,000). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends of HIV Mortality between 2001 and 2018: An Observational Analysis

by Chinmay Jani, Kripa Patel, Alexander Walker, Harpreet Singh, Omar Al Omari, Conor Crowley, Dominic C. Marshall, Richard Goodall, Arashdeep Rupal, Justin D. Salciccioli and Joseph Shalhoub

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2021, 6(4), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6040173 - 24 Sep 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3318

Abstract

Since the beginning of the epidemic in the early 1980s, HIV-related illnesses have led to the deaths of over 32.7 million individuals. The objective of this study was to describe current mortality rates for HIV through an observational analysis of HIV mortality data [...] Read more.

Since the beginning of the epidemic in the early 1980s, HIV-related illnesses have led to the deaths of over 32.7 million individuals. The objective of this study was to describe current mortality rates for HIV through an observational analysis of HIV mortality data from 2001 to 2018 from the World Health Organization (WHO) Mortality Database. We computed age-standardized death rates (ASDRs) per 100,000 people using the World Standard Population. We plotted trends using locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS). Data for females were available for 42 countries. In total, 31/48 (64.60%) and 25/42 (59.52%) countries showed decreases in mortality in males and females, respectively. South Africa had the highest ASDRs for both males (467.7/100,000) and females (391.1/100,000). The lowest mortalities were noted in Egypt for males (0.2/100,000) and in Japan for females (0.01/100,000). Kyrgyzstan had the greatest increase in mortality for males (+6998.6%). Estonia had the greatest increase in mortality for females (+5877.56%). The disparity between Egypt (the lowest) and South Africa (the highest) was 3042-fold for males. Between Japan and South Africa, the disparity was 43,454-fold for females. Although there was a decrease in mortality attributed to HIV among most of the countries studied, a rising trend remained in a number of developing countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Potential HIV Transmission Risk in Recent Anal Intercourse Events among Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Bali, Indonesia

by Benjamin R. Bavinton, I Gusti Agung Agus Mahendra, John Kaldor, Matthew Law, Andrew E. Grulich and Pande Putu Januraga

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2021, 6(3), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6030139 - 22 Jul 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4253

Abstract

In recent years, prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has increased substantially in Bali, Indonesia, in men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, known locally as ‘waria’. There are limited behavioural data in this population. We conducted a behavioural survey [...] Read more.

In recent years, prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) has increased substantially in Bali, Indonesia, in men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women, known locally as ‘waria’. There are limited behavioural data in this population. We conducted a behavioural survey of MSM/waria in Bali in March–April 2018. Respondents were primarily recruited by HIV outreach workers. Respondents reported details about anal intercourse events with their last male/waria romantic partner and/or last male/waria casual partner (respondents could report on both if relevant). Statistical significance was tested with generalised estimating equations. Among 709 participants, median age was 27 (interquartile range = 24–31), and 92.1% were male and 7.9% were waria. One-third were born in Bali. Overall, 85.9% had ever had an HIV test; 55.1% reported being HIV-negative, 15.0% HIV-positive, and 30.0% had unknown serostatus. Most (86.5%) reported sex with men, 9.5% with waria, and 20.0% with women in the previous 6 months. Respondents described 703 anal intercourse events (397/306 with romantic/casual partners, respectively; 191 reported on both). Over half (56.5%) of the events were protected by condoms and 7.3% by biomedical prevention (2.6% by PrEP in either partner, 4.7% by HIV treatments in either partner). Thus, 36.3% of events involved unprotected condomless anal intercourse (40.8%/30.4% in romantic/casual partners, respectively). In multivariate analysis, unprotected condomless anal intercourse events were associated with romantic partners (p < 0.001), being born in Bali (p = 0.002), lower education (p = 0.013), believing that withdrawal before ejaculation is effective (p < 0.001), liking to use withdrawal (p = 0.021), and not liking condoms (p < 0.001). One-quarter of events had potentially reduced HIV transmission risk through non-condom-based risk reduction strategies, while 11.1% had no potential risk reduction. Events presenting the highest potential risk of HIV transmission were more commonly reported by respondents born in Bali. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chronic Political Instability and the HIV/AIDS Response in Guinea-Bissau from 2000 to 2015: A Systematic Review

by Joshua Galjour, Philip Havik, Peter Aaby, Amabelia Rodrigues and Emmanuel Kabengele Mpinga

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2021, 6(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6010036 - 16 Mar 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3359

Abstract

Guinea-Bissau suffers from political instability and an unusually high HIV/AIDS burden compared to other countries in the West Africa region. We conducted a systematic review on the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Guinea-Bissau during the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) period (2000–2015), which dovetailed with a [...] Read more.

Guinea-Bissau suffers from political instability and an unusually high HIV/AIDS burden compared to other countries in the West Africa region. We conducted a systematic review on the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Guinea-Bissau during the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) period (2000–2015), which dovetailed with a period of chronic political instability in the country’s history. We searched published works on the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Guinea-Bissau for references to chronic political instability. Six databases and the grey literature were searched, informed by expert opinion and manual research through reference tracing. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. The search yielded 122 articles about HIV/AIDS in Guinea-Bissau during the MDG years. Biomedical, clinical, or epidemiological research predominated public health research production on HIV/AIDS in Guinea-Bissau in this period. Six articles addressing themes related to chronic political instability, including how political instability has affected the HIV/AIDS disease response, were identified. The results suggest the importance of considering a broader political epidemiology that accounts for socio-political aspects such as governance, human rights, and community responses into which any national HIV/AIDS response is integrated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

7 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Factors Influencing HIV Drug Resistance among Pregnant Women in Luanda, Angola: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study

by Cruz S. Sebastião, Joana Morais and Miguel Brito

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2021, 6(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed6010029 - 5 Mar 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3225

Abstract

The increase in HIV infection and drug-resistant strains is an important public health concern, especially in resource-limited settings. However, the identification of factors related to the propagation of infectious diseases represents a crucial target offering an opportunity to reduce health care costs as [...] Read more.

The increase in HIV infection and drug-resistant strains is an important public health concern, especially in resource-limited settings. However, the identification of factors related to the propagation of infectious diseases represents a crucial target offering an opportunity to reduce health care costs as well as deepening the focus on preventing infection in high-risk groups. In this study, we investigate the factors related to drug resistance among HIV-infected pregnant women in Luanda, the capital city of Angola. This was a part of a cross-sectional study conducted with 42 HIV-positive pregnant women. A blood sample was collected, and HIV-1 genotyping was carried out using an in-house method. Multivariate analyses were performed to determine the interaction between sociodemographic characteristics and drug resistance. HIV drug resistance was detected in 44.1% of the studied population. High probabilities of drug resistance were observed for HIV-infected pregnant women living in rural areas (AOR: 2.73; 95% CI: 0.50–14.9) with high educational level (AOR: 6.27; 95% CI: 0.77–51.2) and comorbidities (AOR: 5.47; 95% CI: 0.28–106) and infected with a HIV-1 non-B subtype other than subtype C (AOR: 1.60; 95% CI: 0.25–10.3). The present study reports high HIV drug resistance. Furthermore, older-age, rural areas, high educational levels, unemployed status, having comorbidities, and HIV-1 subtypes were factors related to drug resistance. These factors impact on drug susceptibility and need to be urgently addressed in order to promote health education campaigns able to prevent the spread of drug-resistant HIV strains in Angola. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

13 pages, 518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PrEP Use Awareness and Interest Cascade among MSM and Transgender Women Living in Bali, Indonesia

by Rissa Cempaka, Brigitta Wardhani, Anak Agung Sagung Sawitri, Pande Putu Januraga and Benjamin Bavinton

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(4), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5040158 - 10 Oct 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4254

Abstract

Indonesia has not implemented HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) despite global calls for its scale-up, and there is limited information about attitudes towards PrEP among its potential users. We aim to present a PrEP cascade among men who have sex with men (MSM) and [...] Read more.

Indonesia has not implemented HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) despite global calls for its scale-up, and there is limited information about attitudes towards PrEP among its potential users. We aim to present a PrEP cascade among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (known locally as “waria”) in Denpasar, Bali, from a cross-sectional survey with 220 HIV-negative MSM/waria recruited from one clinic in Denpasar. Only 16.4% of participants had heard of PrEP before. From first-to-last steps included in the cascade, we found 77.3% (170/220) of participants were classified with HIV high risk, 75.9% (129/170) perceived themselves as being at high risk, 81.4% (105/129) expressed interest in using PrEP, 78.1% (82/105) were willing to do PrEP procedures, 48.8% (40/82) were willing to pay 500,000–600,000 IDR, and only two participants had ever been on PrEP before (5.0% of those willing to pay and 0.9% of the total sample). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that self-perception of high HIV risk was lower among older age groups (p < 0.001 among 30–39; p = 0.002 among > 40) and higher among participants with multiple sex partners (p = 0.016). Interest in using PrEP was lower among participants with high social engagement as MSM/waria (p = 0.002) and was higher among participants with multiple sex partners (p = 0.020) and inconsistent condom use (p = 0.011). This study has shown a significantly low level of PrEP awareness among its participants and decreases in interest in PrEP use due to procedure and cost. It suggested that an appropriate PrEP campaign is needed if PrEP is going to be introduced in Indonesia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance and Outcomes of Routine Viral Load Testing in People Living with HIV Newly Initiating ART in the Integrated HIV Care Program in Myanmar between January 2016 and December 2017

by Sai Soe Thu Ya, Anthony D. Harries, Khin Thet Wai, Nang Thu Thu Kyaw, Thet Ko Aung, July Moe, Thurain Htun, Htet Naing Shin, Mar Mar Aye and Htun Nyunt Oo

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(3), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5030140 - 31 Aug 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3562

Abstract

Myanmar has introduced routine viral load (VL) testing for people living with HIV (PLHIV) starting first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART). The first VL test was initially scheduled at 12-months and one year later this changed to 6-months. Using routinely collected secondary data, we assessed [...] Read more.

Myanmar has introduced routine viral load (VL) testing for people living with HIV (PLHIV) starting first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART). The first VL test was initially scheduled at 12-months and one year later this changed to 6-months. Using routinely collected secondary data, we assessed program performance of routine VL testing at 12-months and 6-months in PLHIV starting ART in the Integrated HIV-Care Program, Myanmar, from January 2016 to December 2017. There were 7153 PLHIV scheduled for VL testing at 12-months and 1976 scheduled for VL testing at 6-months. Among those eligible for testing, the first VL test was performed in 3476 (51%) of the 12-month cohort and 952 (50%) of the 6-month cohort. In the 12-month cohort, 10% had VL > 1000 copies/mL, 79% had repeat VL tests, 42% had repeat VL > 1000 copies/mL (virologic failure) and 85% were switched to second-line ART. In the 6-month cohort, 11% had VL > 1000 copies/mL, 83% had repeat VL tests, 26% had repeat VL > 1000 copies/mL (virologic failure) and 39% were switched to second-line ART. In conclusion, half of PLHIV initiated on ART had VL testing as scheduled at 12-months or 6-months, but fewer PLHIV in the 6-month cohort were diagnosed with virologic failure and switched to second-line ART. Programmatic implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

HSV-2 Infection as a Potential Cofactor for HIV Disease Progression and Selection of Drug Resistance Mutations in Adults under WHO-Recommended First-Line Antiretroviral Therapy: A Multicentric, Cross-Sectional Study in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, and Gabon

by Abdoulaye Mihimit, Chatté Adawaye, Hélène Péré, Cecilia Costiniuk, Donato Koyalta, François-Xavier Mbopi-Keou, Ralph-Sydney Mboumba Bouassa, Frédéric Talla, Sandrine Moussa, Jean De Dieu Longo, Bertin Hig-Zounet Tchombou, Gérard Grésenguet, Charlotte Charpentier and Laurent Bélec

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(3), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5030136 - 24 Aug 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3567

Abstract

Although herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) infection is a known cofactor for HIV transmission in Central Africa, its role in HIV disease progression is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the potential link between HSV-2 infection and HIV disease progression, in [...] Read more.

Although herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) infection is a known cofactor for HIV transmission in Central Africa, its role in HIV disease progression is unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the potential link between HSV-2 infection and HIV disease progression, in addition to identifying the presence of genes conferring HIV antiretroviral resistance mutations. This was a cross-sectional study involving 302 HIV-infected adults in Central Africa with virological failure (viral load >1000 copies/mL) on first-line antiretroviral therapy from four different countries. The seroprevalence of HSV-2 was 32% (96/302). Amongst the HIV-infected individuals who were HSV-2 seropositive, the mean HIV viral load and CD4 count were 4.82 ± 0.83 log copies/mL and 243 ± 144 cells/microliter, respectively. Among the HIV-infected individuals who were HSV-2-seronegative, the mean HIV viral load and CD4 count were 3.48 ± 0.44 log copies/mL and 646 ± 212 cells/microliter, respectively (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant relationship (p < 0.001) between HSV-2 seropositivity and the presence of resistance mutations to antiretrovirals (ARV), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI), and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) with odds ratios of 9.7, 10, and 11.9, respectively. There was no link between HSV-2 serostatus and protease inhibitor (PI) resistance mutations. There was a substantial accumulation of resistance mutations in HSV-2-seropositive compared to -seronegative patients. These findings support the link between HIV disease progression and HSV-2 infection. An association was observed between the presence of NNRTI and NRTI resistance mutations and HSV-2 seropositivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trust as a Determinant Factor for Condom Use among Female Sex Workers in Bali, Indonesia

by Pande Putu Januraga, Hailay Abrha Gesesew and Paul R. Ward

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(3), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5030131 - 15 Aug 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3373

Abstract

Female sex workers (FSWs) decision to use or not to use condoms depends on several issues, including the decision to trust their client or not, a matter given little attention in previous research. This paper explores the role of trust in consistent condom [...] Read more.

Female sex workers (FSWs) decision to use or not to use condoms depends on several issues, including the decision to trust their client or not, a matter given little attention in previous research. This paper explores the role of trust in consistent condom use among FSWs. We used a cross-sectional survey among FSWs in Bali, Indonesia. The outcome variable for this study was condom use, and independent variables included sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial factors, social capital dimensions and HIV prevention practices. In total, 406 FSWs participated in the study. Of these, 48% of FSWs used condoms consistently with paying clients over the last month. The following FSWs were less likely to consistently use condoms with clients: FSWs who did not trust that their peer FSWs will use condoms (AOR = 9.3, 95% CI, 3.3–26.2), FSWs who did not feel valued by the people at their location (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI, 1.4–11.6), FSWs who did not graduate from primary or never went to school (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI, 1.03–5.6), and FSWs who have worked more than five years as FSWs (AOR = 5.8, 95% CI, 1.2–29.2). Our results highlight higher rates of inconsistent condom use related to lower trust and feelings of being valued between FSWs, identifying areas for policy and practice attention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

17 pages, 1175 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Serological Survey of Selected Papua New Guinea Blood Donors for Hepatitis B and Related Co-Infections

by Francisca Varpit and Bruce Gummow

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(3), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5030108 - 29 Jun 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3145

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious problem and earlier studies in Papua New Guinea have reported a high prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection. These studies were undertaken using insensitive tests and before an expanded immunization program. The current HBV status [...] Read more.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious problem and earlier studies in Papua New Guinea have reported a high prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection. These studies were undertaken using insensitive tests and before an expanded immunization program. The current HBV status is therefore uncertain. A retrospective study to investigate the HBV status was carried out using blood donor data at Nonga General Hospital, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, from January 2003 to December 2018. Additional data for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, syphilis and hepatitis C virus were also collected. Data were analysed using NCSS statistical software. The mean hepatitis B antigen (HBsAg) sero-prevalence was 21% for the period of study and showed a downward trend over the period of the study, which may reflect the effect of the extended immunization program. HBsAg prevalence in male donors (23%) was significantly higher than females (16%). Donors living in Pomio district had a significantly lower proportion of sero-positive HBsAg donors (7%) than Gazelle (22%), Kokopo (22%) and Rabaul (20%), which was attributed to this district’s geographical isolation. Ethnically, Pomios donors (8%) had significantly lower HBsAg prevalence than the Taulils, (29%), Bainings (21%) and Tolais (21%). Fifteen to nineteen year olds (23%) were the predominant age group affected, and vertical or perinatal transmission was probably the primary transmission route. Our findings call for greater awareness on the part of public policy makers and should be considered when planning future public health campaigns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 451 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends and Factors Associated with Comprehensive Knowledge about HIV among Women in Vietnam

by Nguyen Van Son, Hoang Duc Luan, Ho Xuan Tuan, Le Manh Cuong, Nguyen Thi Thuy Duong and Vu Duy Kien

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(2), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5020091 - 3 Jun 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3930

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the trends and associated factors of comprehensive knowledge about HIV among women in Vietnam using the dataset of the Vietnam Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICSs) in 2000, 2006, 2011, and 2014. The outcome variable was comprehensive knowledge about [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess the trends and associated factors of comprehensive knowledge about HIV among women in Vietnam using the dataset of the Vietnam Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICSs) in 2000, 2006, 2011, and 2014. The outcome variable was comprehensive knowledge about HIV, defined as the ability to correctly answer three knowledge questions and to reject the three most common misconceptions about HIV prevention. We found that comprehensive knowledge about HIV increased from 26.1% in 2000 to 44.1% in 2011, but it decreased slightly between 2011 and 2014, from 44.1% to 42.4%. Increased comprehensive knowledge about HIV was associated with women who had higher education and those in the fourth and fifth quintiles of household wealth in all four rounds of the MICS. Comprehensive knowledge about HIV among women was also associated with those who had ever been tested for HIV and those with knowledge of where to be tested for HIV. Women in the urban areas were more likely to have higher levels of comprehensive knowledge about HIV as compared to the women in the rural areas in 2000, 2006, and 2011 but not in 2014. Comprehensive knowledge about HIV among women in Vietnam increased from 2000 to 2014, but it was still relatively low. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gaps in Hepatitis B Vaccination Completion and Sero-Protection for People Who Inject Drugs in Hpakant, Myanmar, 2015–2018

by Nilar Shwe Yee, Aung Yu Naing, Julita Gil Cuesta, Mrinalini Das and Kapilkumar Dave

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(2), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5020077 - 12 May 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2997

Abstract

Hepatitis B vaccination (HBV) is recommended for high-risk groups, such as people who inject drugs (PWIDs). As part of a harm reduction program by a non-governmental organization, hepatitis B screening, vaccination and antibody (HBAb) testing after completion of the vaccination schedule were offered [...] Read more.

Hepatitis B vaccination (HBV) is recommended for high-risk groups, such as people who inject drugs (PWIDs). As part of a harm reduction program by a non-governmental organization, hepatitis B screening, vaccination and antibody (HBAb) testing after completion of the vaccination schedule were offered to PWIDS in Myanmar. We determined the proportions of HBV non-completion and sero-unprotection among PWIDs enrolled in the program and their association with socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. We conducted a descriptive study based on routine program data in five selected clinics in Hpakant Township, Myanmar. PWIDs who were Hepatitis B antigen negative at screening during January 2015–December 2018 were included. Among 5386 participants eligible for HBV, 9% refused vaccination. Among those who accepted vaccination (n = 3177 individuals), 65% completed vaccination. Of those tested for HBsAb (n = 2202), 30% were sero-unprotected. Young-adults (aged 18–44 years) and migrant workers had a higher risk of incomplete vaccination. However, participants who used methadone had a lower risk of incomplete vaccination. Migrant workers had higher risk of not returning for HBsAb testing and HIV-positive participants had a higher risk of being HBV sero-unprotected. Efforts to increase HBV vaccination in PWIDs for young adults and clients during methadone and anti-retroviral services should be prioritized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 238 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Capital and HIV Testing Uptake among Indirect Female Sex Workers in Bali, Indonesia

by I Gusti Ngurah Edi Putra and Pande Putu Januraga

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5020073 - 7 May 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3462

Abstract

Indirect female sex workers (FSWs), a type of FSW working under the cover of entertainment enterprises (e.g., karaoke lounge, bar, etc.), remain as an important key population for HIV transmission, signaling the need of appropriate interventions targeting HIV-related behaviors. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Indirect female sex workers (FSWs), a type of FSW working under the cover of entertainment enterprises (e.g., karaoke lounge, bar, etc.), remain as an important key population for HIV transmission, signaling the need of appropriate interventions targeting HIV-related behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the association between social capital and HIV testing uptake. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 indirect FSWs in Denpasar, Bali. The dependent variable was HIV testing uptake in the last six months preceding the survey. The main independent variables were social capital constructs: social cohesion (perceived peer support and trust) and social participation. Variables of socio-demographic characteristics were controlled in this study to adjust the influence of social capital. Binary logistic regression was performed. The prevalence of HIV testing in the last six months was 72.50%. The multivariate analysis showed that only peer support from the social capital constructs was associated with HIV testing uptake. Indirect FSWs who perceived a high level of support within FSWs networks were 2.98-times (95% CI = 1.43–6.24) more likely to report for HIV testing. Meanwhile, perceived trust and social participation did not show significant associations in relation to HIV testing uptake. As social cohesion (support) within FSWs’ relationships can play an important role in HIV testing uptake, existing HIV prevention programs should consider support enhancement to develop a sense of belonging and solidarity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

15 pages, 2155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Are the Barriers for Uptake of Antiretroviral Therapy in HIV-Infected Tuberculosis Patients? A Mixed-Methods Study from Ayeyawady Region, Myanmar

by Naychi Htet Htet Lin Aung, Kyaw Thu Soe, Ajay M.V. Kumar, Saw Saw and Si Thu Aung

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2020, 5(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5010041 - 9 Mar 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2986

Abstract

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage among HIV-infected tuberculosis (HIV-TB) patients has been suboptimal in Myanmar and the reasons are unknown. We aimed to assess the ART uptake among HIV-TB patients in public health facilities of Ayeyawady Region from July 2017–June 2018 and explore the [...] Read more.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage among HIV-infected tuberculosis (HIV-TB) patients has been suboptimal in Myanmar and the reasons are unknown. We aimed to assess the ART uptake among HIV-TB patients in public health facilities of Ayeyawady Region from July 2017–June 2018 and explore the barriers for non-initiation of ART. We conducted an explanatory mixed-methods study with a quantitative component (cohort analysis of secondary programme data) followed by a descriptive qualitative component (thematic analysis of in-depth interviews of 22 providers and five patients). Among 12,447 TB patients, 11,057 (89%) were HIV-tested and 627 (5.7%) were HIV-positive. Of 627 HIV-TB patients, 446 (71%) received ART during TB treatment (86 started on ART prior to TB treatment and rest started after TB treatment). Among the 181 patients not started on ART, 60 (33%) died and 41 (23%) were lost-to-follow-up. Patient-related barriers included geographic and economic constraints, poor awareness, denial of HIV status, and fear of adverse drug effects. The health system barriers included limited human resource, provision of ART on ‘fixed’ days only, weaknesses in counselling, referral and feedback mechanism, and clinicians’ reluctance to start ART early due to concerns about immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. We urge the national TB and HIV programs to take immediate actions to improve the ART uptake. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Associated with Hepatitis B and C Co-Infection among HIV-Infected Patients in Singapore, 2006–2017

by Chiaw Yee Choy, Li Wei Ang, Oon Tek Ng, Yee Sin Leo and Chen Seong Wong

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2019, 4(2), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed4020087 - 27 May 2019

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4464

Abstract

Co-infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with increased risk of hepatic complications and mortality. A retrospective study to estimate the proportion of HBV and HCV co-infections in Singapore was conducted using [...] Read more.

Co-infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with increased risk of hepatic complications and mortality. A retrospective study to estimate the proportion of HBV and HCV co-infections in Singapore was conducted using a clinical database. We included 3065 patients who were seen under the Clinical HIV Programme at the largest referral centre for HIV care between 2006 and 2017 and were tested for both HBV and HCV. Factors associated with HIV-HBV and HIV-HCV co-infections were determined using logistic regressions. The majority (86.3%) of HIV-infected patients were mono-infected, while 7.2% were co-infected with HBV, 6.0% with HCV, and 0.5% were co-infected with both HBV and HCV. The most common HCV genotype was GT1 (63%). Factors significantly associated with HBV co-infection in the multivariable model were: Aged 30–49 years and 50–69 years at HIV diagnosis, male gender, and HIV transmission through intravenous drug use (IDU). Independent factors associated with HCV co-infection were: Malay ethnicity, HIV transmission through IDU, and HIV diagnosis between 2006 and 2008. Behavioural risk factors such as IDU, as well as epidemiologic differences associated with co-infection, should inform further studies and interventions aimed at reducing viral hepatitis infection among HIV-infected individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1530 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Observational Case-Control Study to Determine Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Host Factor Influence on Biomarker Distribution and Serodiagnostic Potential in Adult Pulmonary Tuberculosis

by Khayriyyah Mohd Hanafiah, Mary Louise Garcia and David Andrew Anderson

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2019, 4(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed4020057 - 31 Mar 2019

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3004

Abstract

Influence of host factors, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection, on the distribution and diagnostic potential of previously evaluated biomarkers of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), such as anti-antigen 60 (A60) immunoglobulin (Ig) G, anti-A60 IgA, and C-reactive protein (CRP), remain unclear. Anti-A60 IgG, anti-A60 [...] Read more.

Influence of host factors, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection, on the distribution and diagnostic potential of previously evaluated biomarkers of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), such as anti-antigen 60 (A60) immunoglobulin (Ig) G, anti-A60 IgA, and C-reactive protein (CRP), remain unclear. Anti-A60 IgG, anti-A60 IgA, and CRP in PTB and non-PTB patient sera (n = 404, including smear-positive/negative, culture-positive (SPCP/SNCP) and HIV+ve/−ve) were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay and statistically analysed. In multinomial logistic regression, expectoration, chest pain, wasting, and culture count positively associated with CRP (p < 0.001), while smear count positively associated with anti-A60 IgG (p = 0.090). Expectoration and enlarged lymph nodes negatively associated with anti-A60 IgA (p = 0.018). Biomarker distribution and diagnostic potential varied significantly by symptoms and bacilli burden, and across different PTB subpopulations. CRP was correlated poorly with anti-A60 antibodies, while anti-A60 IgA and IgG were correlated in non-tuberculosis (TB) and SPCP patients (p < 0.001). When combined, anti-A60 IgG and CRP best discriminated SPCP/HIV−ve from non-TB (AUC: 0.838, 95% CI: 0.783–0.894), while anti-A60 IgA and CRP performed best in discriminating HIV+ve PTB from non-TB (AUC: 0.687, 95% CI: 0.598–0.777). Combined CRP and anti-A60 antibodies had significantly reduced accuracy in SNCP and SNCP/HIV+ve compared to SPCP/HIV−ve subpopulations. The complex relationships between host factors and biomarkers suggest their limited utility, especially in SNCP/HIV+ve subpopulations, highlighting the importance of examining host response and immune biomarkers across relevant patient subpopulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

13 pages, 2317 KiB

Open AccessReview

Schistosoma and Other Relevant Helminth Infections in HIV-Positive Individuals—An Overview

by Amrei von Braun, Henning Trawinski, Sebastian Wendt and Christoph Lübbert

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2019, 4(2), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed4020065 - 12 Apr 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4976

Abstract

For many years, researchers have postulated that helminthic infections may increase susceptibility to HIV, and that immune activation may have contributed to the extensive spread of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. In the meantime, immunological studies have provided some evidence in support of this [...] Read more.

For many years, researchers have postulated that helminthic infections may increase susceptibility to HIV, and that immune activation may have contributed to the extensive spread of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. In the meantime, immunological studies have provided some evidence in support of this hypothesis, while cross-sectional clinical studies were able to further support the assumed association between HIV infection and selected helminthic co-infections. However, as many of the helminthic infections relevant to HIV-infected patients belong to the group of “neglected tropical diseases”, as defined by the World Health Organization, a certain lack of attention has inhibited progress in fully scaling up treatment and prevention efforts. In addition, despite the fact that the challenges of co-infections have preoccupied clinicians for over two decades, relevant research questions remain unanswered. The following review aims to provide a concise overview of associations between HIV and selected helminthic co-infections concerning aspects of HIV acquisition and transmission, clinical and immunological findings in co-infected individuals, as well as treatment and prevention efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 788 KiB

Open AccessReview

The As and Bs of HIV and Hepatitis Co-Infection

by Darcy Wooten and Maile Y. Karris

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2019, 4(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed4020055 - 27 Mar 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3088

Abstract

Hepatitis A and B co-infection among people living with HIV are public health challenges that account for an increasing degree of morbidity and mortality. Understanding the changing epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and new approaches to treatment and prevention continues to be important in the [...] Read more.

Hepatitis A and B co-infection among people living with HIV are public health challenges that account for an increasing degree of morbidity and mortality. Understanding the changing epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and new approaches to treatment and prevention continues to be important in the care of people living with HIV. We conducted a review of the literature that included studies on hepatitis A and HIV co-infection and hepatitis B and HIV co-infection, focusing on epidemiology, clinical manifestations, treatment, and prevention. Important updates include the changing epidemiology of hepatitis A outbreaks among the homeless and individuals who use substances, and novel approaches to hepatitis B vaccination and hepatitis B cure strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

HIV and Co-Infections: Old and New Challenges

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (18 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI