Predictors of Clinical Outcomes among People with HIV and Tuberculosis Symptoms after Rapid Treatment Initiation in Haiti.

Introduction: Few studies have evaluated baseline predictors of clinical outcomes among people with HIV starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the modern era of rapid ART initiation. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of two rapid treatment initiation strategies for people with treatment-naïve HIV and tuberculosis symptoms at an urban clinic in Haiti. We used logistic regression models to assess associations between baseline characteristics and (1) retention in care at 48 weeks, (2) HIV viral load suppression at 48 weeks (among participants who underwent viral load testing), and (3) all-cause mortality. Results: 500 participants were enrolled in the study 11/2017-1/2020. Eighty-eight (18%) participants were diagnosed with tuberculosis, and ART was started in 494 (99%). After adjustment, less than secondary education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.21, 95% CI 0.10-0.46), dolutegravir initiation (AOR 2.57, 95% CI 1.22-5.43), age (AOR 1.42 per 10-year increase, 95% CI 1.01-1.99), and tuberculosis diagnosis (AOR 3.92, 95% CI 1.36-11.28) were significantly associated with retention. Age (AOR 1.36, 95% CI 1.05-1.75), dolutegravir initiation (AOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.07-2.85), and tuberculosis diagnosis (AOR 0.50, 95% CI 0.28-0.89) were associated with viral suppression. Higher CD4 cell count at enrollment (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.69, 95% CI 0.55-0.87) and anemia (OR 4.86, 95% CI 1.71-13.81) were associated with mortality. Conclusions: We identified sociodemographic, treatment-related, clinical, and laboratory-based predictors of clinical outcomes. These characteristics may serve as markers of sub-populations that could benefit from additional interventions to support treatment success after rapid treatment initiation.

Adverse drug reactions, adherence, and virologic outcomes in adult patients on dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy at a tertiary hospital, southeast Nigeria.

Objective: To assess the adherence, adverse drug reactions (ADR), and virologic outcomes of dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy. Design: This was a retrospective chart review. Setting: A tertiary health facility-based study in Abakaliki, Nigeria. Participants: Five hundred and fifteen (515) adult patients on dolutegravir were selected using a Random Number Generator. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from patients' case notes and analysed with IBM-SPSS version-25. Main outcome measures: Adherence to dolutegravir, ADRs, virologic outcome, and change in Body Mass Index (BMI) were estimated. Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.5±10.8 years; 68.2% of them were females; 97.1% of them had good self-reported adherence. The majority (82.9%) of them reported no ADRs and among those (17.1%) that did, headache (9.7%), body-itching (3.1%), and skin rash (2.7%) dominated. Most achieved viral suppression (94.4%) and did not have detectable viral particles (57.4%). There was a significant increase in the BMI of the patients with a mean weight increase of 0.9kg, a mean BMI increase of 0.3 kg/m2, and a 2.6% increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Conclusions: Patients on dolutegravir reported low ADRs, good self-reported adherence, and a high viral suppression rate. However, dolutegravir is associated with weight gain. We recommend widespread use and more population-wide studies to elucidate the dolutegravir-associated weight gain. Funding: None declared.

Prevalence and associated factors of low bone mineral density in people living with HIV: a cross-sectional study.

This study examined low bone mineral density (BMD) prevalence and associated factors among Chinese people living with HIV (PLWH), uncovering a persistent high BMD risk in older individuals, even after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI). Notably, lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) therapy was linked to reduced BMD, highlighting the imperative need for regular BMD monitoring and interventions in older PLWH. PURPOSE: HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) have been shown to contribute to lower BMD, resulting in an increased susceptibility to osteopenia and osteoporosis. However, there is limited knowledge about the prevalence of reduced BMD and its associated factors among Chinese PLWH. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with low BMD among PLWH in China. METHODS: We retrospectively enrolled PLWH and non-HIV volunteers who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans to measure bone density. Demographic information, laboratory test results, ART regimens, and treatment duration were collected. Univariate and multiple regression analyses were performed to identify factors influencing abnormal bone mass in PLWH. RESULTS: A total of 829 individuals were included in this study, comprising the HIV group (n = 706) and the non-HIV group (n = 123). The prevalence of low BMD among all PLWH was found to be 13.88% (98 out of 706). However, among PLWH aged 50 years and above, the prevalence increased to 65.32% (81 out of 124). In contrast, control subjects in the same age group had a prevalence of 38.21% (47 out of 123). After adjusting for age and BMI, older PLWH still demonstrated a higher prevalence of low BMD compared to the non-HIV group (68.24% vs 34.94%, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that older age was strongly associated with a higher risk of low BMD among PLWH, with an odds ratio (OR) of 6.28 for every 10-year increase in age in the ART-naïve population (95% confidence intervals [CIs], 3.12-12.65; P < 0.001) and OR of 4.83 in the ART-experienced population (3.20-7.29, P < 0.001). Within the ART-experienced group, current LPV/r treatment was associated with an increased risk of low BMD (OR = 3.55, 1.24-10.14, P < 0.05), along with lower BMI (OR = 0.84, 0.75-0.95, P < 0.05), and elevated alkaline phosphatase (OR = 1.02, 1.01-1.03, P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of low BMD is higher among PLWH aged 50 years and above compared to non-HIV individuals. The use of LPV/r for ART is associated with reduced BMD. These findings emphasize the importance of regular monitoring of BMD in older PLWH and the need for appropriate interventions to mitigate the risks of osteopenia and osteoporosis in this population.

Tenofovir-Associated Kidney Dysfunction and Bone Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Tenofovir is an integral part of antiretroviral therapy used to treat HIV. Long-term use of tenofovir has been associated with decreased glomerular filtration rate, leading to chronic kidney disease, as well as acidosis, electrolyte imbalances, and tubular dysfunction. Tenofovir can also disrupt bone health by decreasing renal phosphate absorption, contributing to osteomalacia. This leads to disruption in mineral metabolism, elevated parathyroid hormone levels, and ultimately, low bone mineral density. Replacing tenofovir with alternative antiretroviral therapy can improve kidney function if done early in the course of the disease. Here, we discuss a case of a 65-year-old woman with HIV who presented with advanced renal failure and hypophosphatemia-induced bone fracture attributed to long-term use of tenofovir. We conclude monitoring kidney function and considering alternative antiretroviral therapy is important to prevent and manage these side effects in patients on long-term tenofovir therapy.

Current syphilis infection in virally suppressed people living with HIV: a cross-sectional study in eastern China.

Background: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been shown to reduce human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral replication and ultimately achieve viral suppression and eliminate HIV transmission. However, little is known about the impact of viral suppression on high-risk behaviors and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Objective: This study aimed to assess the rates of current syphilis infection in virally suppressed people living with HIV (PLWH) and whether with the duration of ART can reduce the current syphilis infection in eastern China. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of PLWH in Zhejiang Province, China, in 2022. PLWH who were on ART >6 months and were virally suppressed (viral load <50 copies/mL) were included in the study. Data were collected from the National Epidemiological Database of Zhejiang Province and all participants were tested for viral load and current syphilis. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with current syphilis infection. Result: A total of 30,744 participants were included in the analysis. 82.7% of participants were male, the mean age was 44.9 ± 14.1 years, 84.9% had received ART in a hospital setting, the mean time on ART was 5.9 ± 3.1 years and 5.6% of participants were infected with current syphilis. Multivariable logistic regression showed that being male [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.69-2.66], high level of education (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.02-1.49), homosexual route of HIV infection (aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.60-2.04), non-local registered residence (aOR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.11-1.51), had history of STIs before HIV diagnosis (aOR: 1.95, 95 % CI: 1.75-2.18) and treatment provided by a municipal hospital (aOR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.31-3.55) were associated with increased risk of current syphilis infection. Being married (aOR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.58-0.76) was associated with a decreased risk of current syphilis infection. Conclusion: Our findings revealed a high rate of current syphilis infection among virally suppressed PLWH in eastern China. Duration of ART did not reduce the prevalence of current syphilis infection. Targeted interventions to reduce current syphilis infection should be prioritized for subgroups at higher risk.

Examining barriers to antiretroviral therapy initiation in infants living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa despite the availability of point-of-care diagnostic testing: a narrative systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in infants living with HIV before 12 weeks of age can reduce the risk of mortality by 75%. Point-of-care (POC) diagnostic testing is critical for prompt ART initiation; however, despite its availability, rates of ART initiation are still relatively low before 12 weeks of age. This systematic review describes the barriers to ART initiation in infants before 12 weeks of age, despite the availability of POC. METHODS: This systematic review used a narrative synthesis methodology. We searched PubMed and Scopus using search strategies that combined terms of multiple variants of the keywords "early infant initiation on antiretroviral therapy," "barriers" and "sub-Saharan Africa" (initial search 18th January 2023; final search 1st August 2023). We included qualitative, observational and mixed methods studies that reported the influences of early infant initiation on ART. We excluded studies that reported influences on other components of the Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission cascade. Using a deductive approach guided by the updated Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research, we developed descriptive codes and themes around barriers to early infant initiation on ART. We then developed recommendations for interventions for the identified barriers using the action, actor, target and time framework from the codes. RESULTS: Of the 266 abstracts reviewed, 52 full-text papers were examined, of which 12 papers were included. South Africa had most papers from a single country (n = 3) and the most reported study design was retrospective (n = 6). Delays in ART initiation beyond 12 weeks in infants 0-12 months were primarily associated with health facility and maternal factors. The most prominent barriers identified were inadequate resources for POC testing (including human resources, laboratory facilities and patient follow-up). Maternal-related factors, such as limited male involvement and maternal perceptions of treatment and care, were also influential. DISCUSSION: We identified structural barriers to ART initiation at the health system, social and cultural levels. Improvements in the timely allocation of resources for POC testing operations, coupled with interventions addressing social and behavioural barriers among both mothers and healthcare providers, hold a promise for enhancing timely ART initiation in infants. CONCLUSIONS: This paper identifies barriers and proposes strategies for timely ART initiation in infants.

Measuring HBV pregenomic RNA may be a potential biomarker to determine HBV functional cure in HIV/HBV-co-infected patients with HBsAg loss.

Functional cure of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an optimal treatment goal for chronic hepatitis B, with the loss of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) being a crucial indicator. However, the adequacy of HBsAg loss for evaluating functional cure of HBV in patients co-infected with HBV/human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains controversial. In this study, we measured HBV pregenomic RNA (pgRNA), a potential biomarker that correlates with covalently closed circular DNA, in the frozen plasma of 98 patients with HBsAg loss from a large HIV/HBV co-infection cohort in Guangzhou, China. HBV pgRNA was still detected in 43.9% (44/98) of the patients, suggesting active HBV replication in individuals with HBsAg loss. Our observations imply that HBsAg loss may not be a reliable predictor of HBV functional cure in cases of HIV/HBV co-infection.

Nurse-led sequential multiple assignment randomized trial of nudging intervention for early antiretroviral therapy initiation among patients with HIV/AIDS: Implementation study protocol.

AIMS: In China, more than 30% of patients have not initiated treatment within 30 days of HIV diagnosis. Delayed initiation has a detrimental influence on disease outcomes and increases HIV transmission. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led antiretroviral therapy initiation nudging intervention for people newly diagnosed with HIV in China to find the optimal intervention implementation strategy. METHODS: A Hybrid Type II sequential multiple assignment randomized trial will be conducted at four Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Hunan, China. This study will recruit 447 people newly diagnosed with HIV aged ≥18 years and randomly assign them into two intervention groups and one control group. On top of the regular counselling services and referrals, intervention groups will receive a 4-week, 2-phase intervention based on the dual-system theory and the nudge theory. The control group will follow the currently recommended referral procedures. The primary outcomes are whether treatment is initiated, as well as the length of time it takes. The study outcomes will be measured at the baseline, day 15, day 30, week 12, week 24 and week 48. Generalized estimating equations and survival analysis will be used to compare effectiveness and explore factors associated with antiretroviral therapy initiation. Both qualitative and quantitative information will be collected to assess implementation outcomes. DISCUSSION: Existing strategies mostly target institutional-level factors, with little consideration given to patients' decision-making. To close this gap, we aim to develop an effective theory-driven nudging strategy to improve early ART initiation. IMPACT: This nurse-led study will help to prevent delayed initiation by employing implementation science strategies for people newly diagnosed with HIV. This study contributes to the United Nations' objective of ending the AIDS pandemic by 2030. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2300070140. The trial was prospectively registered before the first participant was recruited. PATIENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT: The nudging intervention was finalized through the Nominal Group Technique where we invited five experts in the related field and five people living with HIV to participate.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type-1 Genetic Diversity and Drugs Resistance Mutations among People Living with HIV in Karachi, Pakistan.

The human immunodeficiency virus type-1 epidemic in Pakistan has significantly increased over the last two decades. In Karachi, Pakistan, there is a lack of updated information on the complexity of HIV-1 genetic diversity and the burden of drug resistance mutations (DRMs) that can contribute to ART failure and poor treatment outcomes. This study aimed to determine HIV-1 genetic diversity and identify drug-resistance mutations among people living with HIV in Karachi. A total of 364 HIV-positive individuals, with a median age of 36 years, were enrolled in the study. The HIV-1 partial pol gene was successfully sequenced from 268 individuals. The sequences were used to generate phylogenetic trees to determine clade diversity and also to assess the burden of DRMs. Based on the partial pol sequences, 13 distinct HIV-1 subtypes and recombinant forms were identified. Subtype A1 was the most common clade (40%), followed by CRF02_AG (33.2%). Acquired DRMs were found in 30.6% of the ART-experienced patients, of whom 70.7%, 20.7%, and 8.5% were associated with resistance to NNRTIs, NRTIs, and PIs, respectively. Transmitted DRMs were found in 5.6% of the ART-naïve patients, of whom 93% were associated with resistance against NNRTIs and 7% to PIs. The high prevalence of DRMs in ART-experienced patients poses significant challenges to the long-term benefits and sustainability of the ART program. This study emphasizes the importance of continuous HIV molecular epidemiology and drug resistance surveillance to support evidence-based HIV prevention, precise ART, and targeted AIDS care.

HIV-Induced Thymic Insufficiency and Aging-Related Immunosenescence on Immune Reconstitution in ART-Treated Patients.

The mechanisms underlying unsatisfactory immune reconstitution in HIV-1 positive patients under ART have not been fully elucidated, even after years of investigation. Thus, this study aimed to assess the correlation between age and thymic production profile, and its influence on inadequate immunological recovery. Here, 44 ART-treated patients with undetectable plasma HIV-1 load (<40 copies/mL) were classified as 31 immunological responders (IR) and 13 immunological non-responders (INR), according to their CD4+ T-cell count after 18 months of ART. The thymic function was assessed by identifying recent thymic emigrants (RTEs) CD4+ T cells (CD4+/CD45RA+CD31+) in PBMCs using flow cytometry. Clinical data were also analyzed from medical records. The INR group showed a higher age at ART initiation (41 ± 3.0) compared to the IR (33.7 ± 2.1) group (p = 0.041). Evaluating RTE CD4+ T-cells, we observed a lower percentage in the INR group (19.5 ± 6.3) compared to the IR group (29.9 ± 11.5) (p = 0.012). There was a strong negative correlation between age at ART initiation and RTE CD4+ T-cells in INRs (r = -0.784, p = 0.004). Our study has highlighted the thymic insufficiency and aging-related immunosenescence with unsatisfactory immunological recovery during ART in HIV-1 positive patients.

Experiences of support by unsuppressed adolescents living with HIV and their caregivers in Windhoek, Namibia: a qualitative study.

Background: Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) lag behind younger children and adults in the achievement of HIV care and treatment targets for HIV epidemic control. Treatment outcomes for adolescents may be influenced by their experiences with the support provided in HIV programs. We report on the experiences of virally unsuppressed adolescents and their caregivers with the current support in primary healthcare settings in Namibia. Methods: A qualitative descriptive and exploratory study was conducted in 13 public primary healthcare facilities in Windhoek, Namibia. A total of 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with unsuppressed adolescents (n = 14) and their caregivers (n = 11) between August and September 2023. The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and uploaded into ATLAS.ti software, and subjected to thematic content analysis. Findings: Three main support domains for the unsuppressed adolescents emerged from our analysis, namely: psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support. The psychosocial support was delivered through peer support (teen clubs and treatment supporters) and enhanced adherence counselling mostly. The clinical and care support included implementing adolescent-friendly HIV services, differentiated service delivery approaches, and caregivers and healthcare worker care support for improved ART adherence, clinic attendance and continuous engagement in care. Socioeconomic support was provided for nutritional support, transport to access clinics, and school supplies, as well as income-generating projects. Conclusion: Psychosocial, clinical and care, and socioeconomic support are key elements in addressing the needs of adolescents challenged with achieving viral suppression. Health systems may benefit from whole-of-society and whole-of-government approaches to meet the needs of ALHIV that are beyond the scope of health service delivery such as nutritional, education and socioeconomic influences on both the health and well-being of ALHIV.

INcentives and ReMINDers to Improve Long-Term Medication Adherence (INMIND): impact of a pilot randomized controlled trial in a large HIV clinic in Uganda.

INTRODUCTION: Habits are a common strategy for successfully countering medication non-adherence, yet existing interventions do not support participants during the long habit formation period, resulting in high attrition. We test a novel intervention combining text messages and incentives with anchoring to support antiretroviral therapy (ART) pill-taking habits. METHODS: In a randomized, parallel controlled trial, a sample of 155 participants 18 years and older who initiated ART within 3 months were recruited at Mildmay Uganda between October 2021 and April 2022. All participants were educated on the anchoring strategy and chose an anchor, that is existing routines, to pair with pill-taking. Participants were randomized to either usual care (C = 49), daily text message reminders to follow their anchoring plan (Messages group; T1 = 49) or messages and incentives conditional on pill-taking in line with their anchor (Incentives group; T2 = 57). Assessments occurred at baseline, month 3 (end of intervention) and month 9 (end of observation period). The primary outcomes are electronically measured mean adherence and pill-taking consistent with participants' anchor time. RESULTS: The primary outcome of pill-taking in line with the anchoring plan was higher in the Incentives group during the 3-month intervention (12.2 p.p. [95% CI: 2.2 22.2; p = .02]), and remained significantly higher after the incentives were withdrawn (months 4-6 (14.2 p.p. [95% CI 1.1 27.2; p = .03]); months 7-9 (14.1 p.p. [95% CI -0.2 28.5; p = .05])). Mean adherence was higher in both treatment groups relative to the control group during the intervention (T1 vs. C, p = .06; T2 vs. C, p = .06) but not post-intervention. CONCLUSIONS: The promising approach of using incentives to support habit formation among ART treatment initiators needs to be evaluated in a fully powered study to further our understanding of the habit formation process and to evaluate its cost-effectiveness.

Intervention strategies to improve adherence to treatment for selected chronic conditions in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Evidence-based intervention strategies to improve adherence among individuals living with chronic conditions are critical in ensuring better outcomes. In this systematic review, we assessed the impact of interventions that aimed to promote adherence to treatment for chronic conditions. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and CINAHL databases to identify relevant studies published between the years 2000 and 2023 and used the QUIPS assessment tool to assess the quality and risk of bias of each study. We extracted data from eligible studies for study characteristics and description of interventions for the study populations of interest. RESULTS: Of the 32,698 total studies/records screened, 2814 were eligible for abstract screening and of those, 497 were eligible for full-text screening. A total of 82 studies were subsequently included, describing a total of 58,043 patients. Of the total included studies, 58 (70.7%) were related to antiretroviral therapy for HIV, 6 (7.3%) were anti-hypertensive medication-related, 12 (14.6%) were anti-diabetic medication-related and 6 (7.3%) focused on medication for more than one condition. A total of 54/82 (65.9%) reported improved adherence based on the described study outcomes, 13/82 (15.9%) did not have clear results or defined outcomes, while 15/82 (18.3%) reported no significant difference between studied groups. The 82 publications described 98 unique interventions (some studies described more than one intervention). Among these intervention strategies, 13 (13.3%) were multifaceted (4/13 [30.8%] multi-component health services- and community-based programmes, 6/13 [46.2%] included individual plus group counselling and 3/13 [23.1%] included SMS or alarm reminders plus individual counselling). DISCUSSION: The interventions described in this review ranged from adherence counselling to more complex interventions such as mobile health (mhealth) interventions. Combined interventions comprised of different components may be more effective than using a single component in isolation. However, the complexity involved in designing and implementing combined interventions often complicates the practicalities of such interventions. CONCLUSIONS: There is substantial evidence that community- and home-based interventions, digital health interventions and adherence counselling interventions can improve adherence to medication for chronic conditions. Future research should answer if existing interventions can be used to develop less complicated multifaceted adherence intervention strategies.

Tobacco smoking, smoking cessation and life expectancy among people with HIV on antiretroviral therapy in South Africa: a simulation modelling study.

INTRODUCTION: As access to effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) has improved globally, tobacco-related illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic respiratory conditions, account for a growing proportion of deaths among people with HIV (PWH). We estimated the impact of tobacco smoking and smoking cessation on life expectancy among PWH in South Africa. METHODS: In a microsimulation model, we simulated 18 cohorts of PWH with virologic suppression, each homogenous by sex, initial age (35y/45y/55y) and smoking status (current/former/never). Input parameters were from data sources published between 2008 and 2022. We used South African data to estimate age-stratified mortality hazard ratios: 1.2-2.3 (females)/1.1-1.9 (males) for people with current versus never smoking status; and 1.0-1.3 (females)/1.0-1.5 (males) for people with former versus never smoking status, depending on age at cessation. We assumed smoking status remains unchanged during the simulation; people who formerly smoked quit at model start. Simulated PWH face a monthly probability of disengagement from care and virologic non-suppression. In sensitivity analysis, we varied smoking-associated and HIV-associated mortality risks. Additionally, we estimated the total life-years gained if a proportion of all virologically suppressed PWH stopped smoking. RESULTS: Forty-five-year-old females/males with HIV with virologic suppression who smoke lose 5.3/3.7 life-years compared to PWH who never smoke. Smoking cessation at age 45y adds 3.4/2.4 life-years. Simulated PWH who continue smoking lose more life-years from smoking than from HIV (females, 5.3 vs. 3.0 life-years; males, 3.7 vs. 2.6 life-years). The impact of smoking and smoking cessation increase as smoking-associated mortality risks increase and HIV-associated mortality risks, including disengagement from care, decrease. Model results are most sensitive to the smoking-associated mortality hazard ratio; varying this parameter results in 1.0-5.1 life-years gained from cessation at age 45y. If 10-25% of virologically suppressed PWH aged 30-59y in South Africa stopped smoking now, 190,000-460,000 life-years would be gained. CONCLUSIONS: Among virologically suppressed PWH in South Africa, tobacco smoking decreases life expectancy more than HIV. Integrating tobacco cessation interventions into HIV care, as endorsed by the World Health Organization, could substantially improve life expectancy.

Predictors of tuberculosis treatment outcomes among people living with HIV in some States in Nigeria.

Introduction: tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remain major public health threats globally and worse when they co-exist in susceptible individuals. The study examined TB treatment outcomes and their predictive factors among people living with HIV (PLHIVs). Methods: a review of TB/HIV co-infected patients who had TB treatments across comprehensive antiretroviral therapy (ART) sites with ≥500 patients was conducted in seven United States of America President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR)-supported States in Nigeria. Data on patient background, HIV and TB care, and TB treatment outcomes were collected using an Excel abstraction template. The data was analyzed using SPSS and an association was examined using a chi-square test while binary logistic regression was used to determine predictors of TB treatment outcomes (P< 0.05). Results: two thousand six hundred and fifty-two co-infected patients participated in the study. The mean age of participants was 37 ± 14 years. A majority had TB treatment success (cured = 1059 (39.9%), completed = 1186 (44.7%)). Participants who had pulmonary TB, virally suppressed and commenced isoniazid (INH) before TB diagnosis were more likely to have a favorable TB treatment outcome compared to those who had extrapulmonary TB (AOR = 7.110, 95% CI = 1.506 - 33.565), virally unsuppressed (AOR = 1.677, 95% CI = 1.036 - 2.716) or did not commence INH before TB diagnosis (AOR = 1.486, 95% CI = 1.047 - 2.109). Conclusion: site of infection, immune status, exposure to ART, and INH prophylaxis were found to predict TB treatment outcomes among PLHIVs. Stakeholders should ensure early commencement of ART and INH prophylaxis for PLHIVs.

Completion of tuberculosis preventive therapy and associated factors among clients on antiretroviral therapy at Debre Berhan town health facilities, North Shoa Zone, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis preventive therapy is vital in caring for HIV-positive individuals, as it prevents the progression from latent tuberculosis infection to tuberculosis disease. The aim of the study is to assess the completion of tuberculosis preventive therapy and associated factors among clients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia, in 2022. METHOD: Institutional based cross sectional study was conducted. Random sampling methods were used to select both study participants and health facilities. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. P-values less than 0.05 were statistically significant. RESULT: The study found that, 83% of participants were completed tuberculosis preventive therapy. Completed tuberculosis preventive therapy was associated with no adverse drug events, taking first-line ART, and good ART adherence. CONCLUSION: According to the Ethiopian ART guidelines, the study found a low completion rate of tuberculosis preventive therapy among HIV-positive clients on antiretroviral therapy. Factors like no adverse drug events, first-line antiretroviral regimen, and good adherence were significantly associated with completing tuberculosis preventive therapy.

Virological outcomes of third-line antiretroviral therapy in a global context: a systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite remarkable progress, HIV's influence on global health remains firm, demanding continued attention. Understanding the effectiveness of third-line antiretroviral therapy in individuals who do not respond to second-line drugs is crucial for improving treatment strategies. The virological outcomes of third-line antiretroviral therapy vary from study to study, highlighting the need for robust global estimates. METHODS: A comprehensive search of databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, International Scientific Indexing, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, was conducted. STATA version 17 statistical software was used for analysis. A random-effects model was applied to compute the pooled estimates. Subgroup analysis, heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis were also performed. The prediction interval is computed to estimate the interval in which a future study will fall. The GRADE tool was also used to determine the quality of the evidence. RESULTS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, 15 studies involving 1768 HIV patients receiving third-line antiretroviral therapy were included. The pooled viral suppression of third-line antiretroviral therapy was 76.6% (95% CI: 71.5- 81.7%). The viral suppression rates at 6 and 12 months were 75.5% and 78.6%, respectively. Furthermore, third-line therapy effectively suppressed viral RNA copy numbers to ≤ 50 copies/mL, ≤ 200 copies/mL, and ≤ 400 copies/mL with rates of 70.7%, 85.4%, and 85.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION: More than three-fourths of patients on third-line antiretroviral therapy achieve viral suppression. Consequently, improving access to and timely initiation of third-line therapy may positively impact the quality of life for those with second-line treatment failure.

Clinical characteristics of women with HIV in the RESPOND cohort: A descriptive analysis and comparison to men.

BACKGROUND: Women with HIV are globally underrepresented in clinical research. Existing studies often focus on reproductive outcomes, seldom focus on older women, and are often underpowered to assess sex/gender differences. We describe CD4, HIV viral load (VL), clinical characteristics, comorbidity burden, and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) among women with HIV in the RESPOND study and compare them with those of the men in RESPOND. METHODS: RESPOND is a prospective, multi-cohort collaboration including over 34 000 people with HIV from across Europe and Australia. Demographic and clinical characteristics, including CD4/VL, comorbidity burden, and ART are presented at baseline, defined as the latter of 1 January 2012 or enrolment into the local cohort, stratified by age and sex/gender. We further stratify men by reported mode of HIV acquisition, men who have sex with men (MSM) and non-MSM. RESULTS: Women account for 26.0% (n = 9019) of the cohort, with a median age of 42.2 years (interquartile range [IQR] 34.7-49.1). The majority (59.3%) of women were white, followed by 30.3% Black. Most women (75.8%) had acquired HIV heterosexually and 15.9% via injecting drug use. Nearly half (44.8%) were receiving a boosted protease inhibitor, 31.4% a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, and 7.8% an integrase strand transfer inhibitor. The baseline year was 2012 for 73.2% of women and >2019 for 4.2%. Median CD4 was 523 (IQR 350-722) cells/µl, and 73.6% of women had a VL <200 copies/mL. Among the ART-naïve population, women were more likely than MSM but less likely than non-MSM (p < 0.001) to have CD4 <200 cells/µL and less likely than both MSM and non-MSM (p < 0.001) to have VL ≥100 000 copies/mL. Women were also more likely to be free of comorbidity than were both MSM and non-MSM (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: RESPOND women are diverse in age, ethnicity/race, CD4/VL, and comorbidity burden, with important differences relative to men. This work highlights the importance of stratification by sex/gender for future research that may help improve screening and management guidelines specifically for women with HIV.

Gestational weight gain and adverse birth outcomes in South African women with HIV on antiretroviral therapy and without HIV: a prospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Outside of pregnancy, evidence shows that persons with HIV initiating or switching to dolutegravir (DTG)-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) experience greater weight gain compared to those on other ART classes. However, there are few data on the impact of DTG-based ART on gestational weight gain (GWG) in sub-Saharan Africa where HIV is most common. According to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), GWG below and above NAM guidelines is associated with adverse birth outcomes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to describe GWG by HIV status and ART regimen, and examine the associations with adverse birth outcomes. METHODS: We enrolled pregnant women with HIV (WHIV) and without HIV (≥18 years) in a peri-urban primary healthcare facility in Cape Town, South Africa between 2019 and 2022. GWG was study-measured at 24-28 (baseline) and 33-38 weeks gestation and converted to GWG rate (kg/week) in accordance with NAM guidelines. GWG z-scores were generated using the INTEGROWTH-21 and US standards to account for differing lengths of gestation. Birth outcome data were obtained from medical records. Associations of GWG z-score with adverse birth outcomes were assessed using multivariable linear or log-binomial regression. RESULTS: Among 292 participants (48% WHIV), median age was 29 years (IQR, 25-33), median pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was 31 kg/m2 (IQR, 26-36) and 20% were primiparous at baseline. The median weekly rate of GWG was 0.30 kg/week (IQR, 0.12-0.50), 35% had GWG below NAM standards (59% WHIV) and 48% had GWG above NAM standards (36% WHIV). WHIV gained weight more slowly (0.25 vs. 0.37 kg/week, p<0.01) than women without HIV. Weekly rate of GWG did not differ by ART regimen (DTG-based ART 0.25 vs. efavirenz-based ART 0.27 kg/week, p = 0.80). In multivariable analyses, GWG z-score was positively associated with continuous birth weight (mean difference = 68.53 95% CI 8.96, 128.10) and categorical high birth weight of >4000 g (RR = 2.18 95% CI 1.18, 4.01). CONCLUSIONS: Despite slower GWG among WHIV, nearly half of all women gained weight faster than recommended by the NAM. GWG was positively associated with infant birth weight. Interventions to support healthy GWG in sub-Saharan Africa are urgently needed.

Antiretroviral Therapy Use and Disparities Among Medicare Beneficiaries with HIV.

BACKGROUND: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is recommended for all people with HIV. Understanding ART use among Medicare beneficiaries with HIV is therefore critically important for improving quality and equity of care among the growing population of older adults with HIV. However, a comprehensive national evaluation of filled ART prescriptions among Medicare beneficiaries is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To examine trends in ART use among Medicare beneficiaries with HIV from 2013 to 2019 and to evaluate whether racial and ethnic disparities in ART use are narrowing over time. DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. SUBJECTS: Traditional Medicare beneficiaries with Part D living with HIV in 2013-2019. MAIN MEASURES: Months of filled ART prescriptions each year. KEY RESULTS: Compared with beneficiaries not on ART, beneficiaries on ART were younger, less likely to be Black (41.6% vs. 47.0%), and more likely to be Hispanic (13.1% vs. 9.7%). While the share of beneficiaries who filled ART prescriptions for 10 + months/year improved (+ 0.48 percentage points/year [p.p.y.], 95% CI 0.34-0.63, p < 0.001), 25.8% of beneficiaries did not fill ART for 10 + months in 2019. Between 2013 and 2019, the proportion of beneficiaries who filled ART for 10 + months improved for Black beneficiaries (65.8 to 70.3%, + 0.66 p.p.y., 95% CI 0.43-0.89, p < 0.001) and White beneficiaries (74.8 to 77.4%, + 0.38 p.p.y.; 95% CI 0.19-0.58, p < 0.001), while remaining stable for Hispanic beneficiaries (74.5 to 75.0%, + 0.12 p.p.y., 95% CI - 0.24-0.49, p = 0.51). Although Black-White disparities in ART use narrowed over time, the share of beneficiaries who filled ART prescriptions for 10 + months/year was significantly lower among Black beneficiaries relative to White beneficiaries each year. CONCLUSIONS: ART use improved from 2013 to 2019 among Medicare beneficiaries with HIV. However, about 25% of beneficiaries did not consistently fill ART prescriptions within a given year. Despite declining differences between Black and White beneficiaries, concerning disparities in ART use persist.