Correlates of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis cessation among men who have sex with men in China: implications from a nationally quantitative and qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated the population-level effectiveness of oral PrEP in reducing the risk of HIV infection. However, oral PrEP utilization among MSM in China remains below 1%. While existing literature has primarily focused on oral PrEP preference and willingness, there is limited exploration of the underlying factors contributing to oral PrEP cessation in China. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the factors associated with oral PrEP cessation among MSM in China. METHODS: Assisted by MSM community organizations, we collected 6,535 electronic questionnaires from 31 regions across China, excluding Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. The questionnaire focused on investigating MSM's awareness, willingness, usage, and cessation of oral PrEP. Additionally, 40 participants were randomly chosen for key informant interviews. These qualitative interviews aimed to explore the reasons influencing MSM discontinuing oral PrEP. RESULTS: We eventually enrolled 6535 participants. Among the 685 participants who had used oral PrEP, 19.70% (135/685) ceased oral PrEP. The results indicated that individuals spending > ¥1000 on a bottle of PrEP (aOR = 2.999, 95% CI: 1.886-4.771) were more likely to cease oral PrEP compared to those spending ≤ ¥1000. Conversely, individuals opting for on-demand PrEP (aOR = 0.307, 95% CI: 0.194-0.485) and those using both daily and on-demand PrEP (aOR = 0.114, 95% CI: 0.058-0.226) were less likely to cease PrEP compared to those using daily PrEP. The qualitative analysis uncovered eight themes influencing oral PrEP cessation: (i) High cost and low adherence; (ii) Sexual inactivity; (iii) Lack of knowledge about PrEP; (iv) Trust in current prevention strategies; (v) Poor quality of medical service and counseling; (vi) PrEP stigma; (vii) Partner and relationship factors; (viii) Access challenges. CONCLUSIONS: The cessation of oral PrEP among MSM in China is associated with various factors, including the cost of oral PrEP medication, regimens, individual perception of HIV risk, stigma, and the quality of medical services. It is recommended to provide appropriate regimens for eligible MSM and develop tailored combinations of strategies to enhance PrEP awareness and acceptance among individuals, medical staff, and the MSM community. The findings from this study can support the refinement of HIV interventions among MSM in China, contributing to efforts to reduce the burden of HIV in this population.

Trends in Incidence of HIV and Syphilis Among Men Who Have Sex with Men - Tianjin Municipality, China, 2013-2022.

What is already known about this topic?: Given the common modes of transmission, outbreaks of both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis are primarily observed in men who have sex with men (MSM). However, minimal research has been conducted to concurrently evaluate the rates and trends of HIV and syphilis incidence within this community in China. What is added by this report?: This manuscript presents the incidence rates and associated factors of HIV and syphilis in MSM in Tianjin based on data derived from a decade-long cohort study. Intriguingly, it depicts a decreasing trend in HIV incidence juxtaposed with an increasing incidence of syphilis among this population in Tianjin. What are the implications for public health practice?: The interconnected risk factors for HIV and syphilis pose significant hindrances to disease control. Our study underscores the urgent need for improved intervention strategies specifically aimed at MSM to mitigate the propagation of both infections.

Identifying patterns of sexual behaviors and PrEP uptake characteristics among MSM who were eligible for PrEP: A national cross-section study.

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at a high risk of HIV infection and should be offered effective preventive measures, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). However, PrEP uptake among eligible MSM was not as high as desired. Diverse research findings on how risky sexual behaviors affect PrEP uptake highlight the necessity for a comprehensive investigation. Understanding the interconnectedness of different sexual behaviors is crucial for evaluating their impact on PrEP uptake among eligible MSM. Using a proportional sampling method, we recruited 5877 MSM aged 16 years and above in mainland China according to PrEP eligibility criteria. Through latent class analysis (LCA), three distinct sexual behavior patterns were identified among eligible MSM. Demographic variances and PrEP uptake among the three distinct sexual behavior patterns were examined using chi-squared tests and multinomial logistic regression. LCA revealed three patterns: low-risk (4,815 MSM), medium-risk (516 MSM), and high-risk (546 MSM). MSM aged 25 years or older with a monthly income of ≥¥8,000 were more likely to be in the medium-risk group. Those from areas with high HIV prevalence and engaging as "top" in anal sex were more likely to be in the medium- and high-risk groups. The medium- and high-risk groups had a higher willingness, uptake, and adherence rates for PrEP than the low-risk group. LCA is effective in identifying diverse sexual behavior patterns among MSM, aiding targeted interventions to enhance PrEP uptake. Addressing demographic variations and tailoring interventions for specific risk groups are crucial for promoting PrEP dissemination and reducing HIV infection risk in eligible MSM.

Efficacy of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision to Prevent HIV Infection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men : A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Observational studies suggest that voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) may lower HIV risk among men who have sex with men (MSM). A randomized controlled trial (RCT) is needed to confirm this. OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of VMMC in preventing incident HIV infection among MSM. DESIGN: An RCT with up to 12 months of follow-up. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000039436). SETTING: 8 cities in China. PARTICIPANTS: Uncircumcised, HIV-seronegative men aged 18 to 49 years who self-reported predominantly practicing insertive anal intercourse and had 2 or more male sex partners in the past 6 months. INTERVENTION: VMMC. MEASUREMENTS: Rapid testing for HIV was done at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Behavioral questionnaires and other tests for sexually transmitted infections were done at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The primary outcome was HIV seroconversion using an intention-to-treat analysis. RESULTS: The study enrolled 124 men in the intervention group and 123 in the control group, who contributed 120.7 and 123.1 person-years of observation, respectively. There were 0 seroconversions in the intervention group (0 infections [95% CI, 0.0 to 3.1 infections] per 100 person-years) and 5 seroconversions in the control group (4.1 infections [CI, 1.3 to 9.5 infections] per 100 person-years). The HIV hazard ratio was 0.09 (CI, 0.00 to 0.81; P = 0.029), and the HIV incidence was lower in the intervention group (log-rank P = 0.025). The incidence rates of syphilis, herpes simplex virus type 2, and penile human papillomavirus were not statistically significantly different between the 2 groups. There was no evidence of HIV risk compensation. LIMITATION: Few HIV seroconversions and limited follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Among MSM who predominantly practice insertive anal intercourse, VMMC is efficacious in preventing incident HIV infection; MSM should be included in VMMC guidelines. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: The National Science and Technology Major Project of China.

Significant insights from a National survey in China: PrEP awareness, willingness, uptake, and adherence among YMSM students.

INTRODUCTION: Few studies focused on the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) -related aspects, and the applicability of prior evidence to young men who have sex with men (YMSM) students was unknown. This study aimed to assess the awareness, willingness, uptake, and adherence (AWUA) to PrEP among YMSM students in China and to explore the associated factors with these stages. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey with a sizable sample of 1151 was conducted among YMSM students aged 16 and above, who self-identified as men who have sex with men(MSM) and resided in mainland China between October 20 and December 20, 2021. The chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used for univariate analysis, followed by multivariable logistic regression analysis of influencing factors at all levels. RESULTS: According to the cascade analysis approach, 88.71% of the participants were aware of PrEP, among which 66.7% expressed willingness to use it. Among those who were willing to use PrEP, only 13.80% took it, and of those who took it, 44.68% adhered to it. The students taking PrEP were those with higher education (OR = 4.239, 95% CI: 1.334-13.467), residence in pilot cities (OR = 2.791, 95% CI: 1.498-5.198), residence in high-risk areas (OR = 5.082, 95% CI: 2.224-11.612), engagement in multi-person sexual behavior (OR = 2.186, 95% CI: 1.236-3.867), and substance use (OR = 1.908, 95% CI: 1.167-3.118). Furtherly, students with higher adherence to PrEP were likely to have receptive sexual behaviors (OR = 8.702, 95% CI: 2.070-36.592), absence of substance use (OR = 4.468, 95% CI: 1.371-14.561), and uptake of PrEP through daily oral route. (OR = 7.065, 95% CI: 1.699-29.371). CONCLUSION: YMSM students exhibit distinct patterns of "high awareness, low willingness, low uptake, and low adherence" to PrEP. Strategies for reduction in the acquisition of HIV prioritizing the current features of utilizing PrEP were urgently warranted.

Correlates of sexual and reproductive health service utilization among older adults in China: Findings from the sexual well-being (SWELL) study.

BACKGROUND: Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is critical to the overall health of older adults. We assessed the utilization of SRH services and its correlates among older adults in China. METHODS: We recruited community-dwelling adults aged 50 and above in five Chinese cities between June 2020 and December 2022. In this study SRH services included reproductive health examination, cervical cancer screening, and sexual life counselling. Logistic regression was used to assess correlates of SRH services utilization. RESULTS: A total of 3001 older adults (1819 men and 1182 women) were enrolled. Among them, 11.4 % (343/3001) of participants received a reproductive health examination, 35.4 % (418/1182) of female participants received cervical cancer screening, and 30.1 % (401/1332) of sexually active participants sought help for their sexual lives. Older men with an annual income of USD 7500 or more (aOR = 3.21, 95%CI: 1.39-7.44), two or more chronic conditions (2.38, 1.39-4.08), and reproductive health problems (2.01, 1.18-3.43) were more likely to receive a urological examination. For older women, individuals who were younger (aged 50-59 years: 5.18, 2.84-9.43; aged 60-69 years: 2.67, 1.49-4.79), lived in an urban area (1.88, 1.31-2.71), were employed (1.73, 1.21-2.47), had two or more chronic conditions (2.04, 1.37-3.05), were sexually active (1.72, 1.15-2.58) and talked about sex (1.69, 1.21-2.36) were more likely to receive a gynecological examination. CONCLUSION: SRH services utilization among older adults was low, with urological examination among older men particularly low. SRH messages and services tailored for older adults are needed to enhance their utilization of SRH services.

Cascade analysis of awareness, willingness, uptake and adherence with regard to PrEP among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) in China: A comparison between students and non-students.

INTRODUCTION: In China, young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are one of the groups most at risk of HIV/AIDS. The uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among YMSM has not been well documented. A cascade analysis of awareness, willingness, use and adherence with regard to PrEP was conducted separately among YMSM students and non-students. METHODS: From 20 October to 30 December 2021, all adolescents aged 16-24 years were selected for the study from among MSM recruited from 31 provincial administrative regions in mainland China. Participants were included in a cross-sectional study of awareness, willingness, use and adherence with regard to PrEP among YMSM. Logistic regression modelling was used to identify factors associated with the four outcomes. RESULTS: Among 1014 student and 866 non-student YMSMs, respectively, 88.07% and 81.64% had heard of PrEP; 58.16% and 50.35% were willing to use PrEP; 7.59% and 7.62% had used PrEP; and 3.16% and 3.58% had adhered to PrEP. Among students, those living in high-risk areas and pilot cities and those who had engaged in commercial sex and group sex had a positive effect on PrEP use, and the same trends were found among non-students living in high-risk areas and pilot cities and those who had engaged in group sex. 'Daily oral' and 'flexible' PrEP use positively influenced adherence among both groups. CONCLUSIONS: A differentiation strategy of PrEP promotion should be implemented among YMSM. Material support for students, such as financial resources, should increase, while non-students should increase their level of perception of HIV risk.

Sexual function and correlates among adults aged 50+ years in China: Findings from the sexual well-being (SWELL) study.

BACKGROUND: Sexual function is an important yet understudied aspect of overall health and well-being in older adults. We aimed to examine sexual function and its correlates among people 50 years and older in China. METHODS: We enrolled people aged 50 years and older recruited from four regions in China between September 2021 and July 2022 in a multicenter cross-sectional study. Data were collected through an investigator-administered questionnaire about demographic characteristics, health characteristics, and sexual function status. Logistic regression was used to assess correlates of lower sexual function (the highest quintile of the sex-specific population distribution of Natsal-SF scores [i.e., lower functioning compared with the remaining]). RESULTS: A total of 465 women and 832 men who were sexually active in the past year were included in the analysis (mean age: 60.4 ± 7.2) [Correction added after first online publication on 12 Feb 2024. The word "years" has been changed to "year" in this sentence.]. Over a quarter of all participants were dissatisfied with their sex life. Notably, 92 women and 167 men were categorized as having a lower sexual function. Age (in men only), living in urban areas, general health status, being underweight or overweight (in men only), and having depressive symptoms were associated with lower sexual function. Among all participants, 43.1% of men and 54.0% of women experienced sexual response problems lasting 3 months or more. Less than one-third of all participants had sought help or advice for sex life in the past year. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction and sexual dissatisfaction are prevalent among older adults in China and are associated with self-assessed poor health. More efforts are needed to better understand sexual health needs and tailor service provision.

Safety and immunogenicity of homologous prime-boost CoronaVac vaccine in people living with HIV in China: A multicenter prospective cohort study.

People living with HIV (PLWH) are particularly vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2. This multicentre prospective cohort study evaluated the long-term immunogenicity and safety of a third homologous dose of Sinovac CoronaVac in PLWH in China. A total of 228 PLWH and 127 HIV-negative controls were finally included and followed up for 6 months. Fewer participants reported mild or moderate adverse reactions, and no serious adverse events were observed. The median levels of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) and immunoglobulin G against the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein (S-IgG) in PLWH (655.92 IU/mL, IQR: 175.76-1663.55; 206.83 IU/mL, IQR: 85.20-397.82) were comparable to those in control group (1067.16 IU/mL, IQR: 239.85-1670.83; 261.70 IU/mL, IQR: 77.13-400.75), and reached their peak at 4 weeks, exhibiting a delayed peak pattern compared to the 2-week peak in control group. After then, the immune titres gradually decreased over time, but most participants still maintained positive seroconversion at the 6-month mark. Multivariable generalized estimating equation analysis indicated that CD4+T cell count, HIV viral load, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) were independent factors strongly associated with immune response (each p < 0.05). We suggested that PLWH should maintain well-controlled HIV status through ART and receive timely administration of the second booster dose for optimal protection.

Current status of AIDS knowledge, attitudes, practices and associated factors of high risk sexual behavior among college students in Tianjin City / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To understand the current status of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) knowledge, attitudes, and practices of college students in Tianjin City and to further investigate the associated factors of high risk sexual behaviors, so as to provide a scientific and theoretical basis for accurate prevention and treatment of AIDS.@*Methods@#A stratified cluster random sample of 64 697 students in 56 colleges and universities in Tianjin City in November to December 2022 was investigated about the current status of AIDS knowledge, attitudes and practices. Information was collected using online survey via Questionnaire Star. Descriptive analysis was used for the current status of AIDS knowledge, attitudes and practices among college students. Chi square test and multiple Logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the influencing factors of high risk sexual behavior among college students.@*Results@#The AIDS awareness rate of college students in Tianjin City reached 87.33%. The sexual openness rate was 70.73 %. Among the 3 463 students who had sex during the past year, 42.13% of students reported high risk sexual behavior. Multivariate Logistic regression showed that female, having a romantic partner, having received sex education and prevention and treatment knowledge of AIDS were negatively associated with high risk sexual behavior ( OR =0.66, 0.59, 0.81, 0.59, P <0.05). Being in sophomore year, non heterosexuality (homosexuality, bisexuality, not knowing), prejudice against AIDS, and misunderstanding the testing methods for AIDS showed positive correlations with highrisk sexual behavior ( OR =1.22, 2.49, 2.30, 3.17, 1.43, 1.22 , P <0.05).@*Conclusions@#The awareness rate of AIDS in college students in Tianjin is high, but high risk sexual behaviors are still at a high level. Further targeted knowledge education and behavioral interventions are needed to scientifically prevent the spread of AIDS.

Analysis of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, willingness, uptake patterns, barriers and needs among MSM students and its influencing factors / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To explore the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness, willingness, uptake patterns, barriers and needs among Chinese student men who have sex with men (MSM), so as to provide relevant evidence for targeted interventions with PrEP.@*Methods@#A proportional sampling method was used to conduct a cross sectional survey of MSM aged 16 years and older residing in 21 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in mainland China between October 20 and December 20, 2021, to collect information on demographic and sexual behavioral characteristics, and 923 students of them were selected as the subjects of this study. The chi-square test and Fisher s test were used for univariate analysis, followed by multivariate Logistic regression to analyze the influencing factors of PrEP awareness and uptake.@*Results@#According to the cascade analysis method, the awareness, willingness, uptake and adherence rates of PrEP among the student MSM were obtained as 88.95%, 67.36%, 13.20% and 45.21 %, respectively. HIV testing more than once in the last 3 months, and all of them were aware of the HIV test results of their sexual partners, and those with high frequency of condom use had a higher rate of awareness ( OR =2.32, 1.79, 1.69, P <0.05). Willingness rates were higher for those from the pilot city, using substances, and HIV testing more than once in the last 3 months ( OR =2.13, 1.65, 1.69, P <0.05). Higher rates of uptake were found among those from high risk and pilot areas, presence of commercial sex, substance use, and high literacy ( OR =5.60, 3.54,2.81, 1.92, 4.54, P <0.05). Adherence rates were higher among those who used one pill per day or both ( OR =12.77, 13.26, P <0.05). The barriers and needs faced by student MSM were primarily personal concerns about medication side effects, preventative effects, and confidence in sexual behavioral styles, and the high cost of medication and related service costs.@*Conclusions@#The student MSM population in China is characterized by high awareness, low willingness, low uptake, and low adherence to PrEP. Targeted interventions should be considered and tailored by the departments to facilitate PrEP promotion among student MSM.

Economic Evaluation of the Comprehensive AIDS Prevention and Control Program - Tianjin Municipality, China, 2011-2022.

What is already known about this topic?: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) represents a significant public health challenge globally, not only inflicting harm on the health of individuals but also placing a considerable economic strain on society. What is added by this report?: This study represents the inaugural report on the potential reduction in economic burden attributable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention strategies in Tianjin. Between 2011 and 2022, it is estimated that effective measures could prevent 2,965 new HIV infections and avert 658 deaths, resulting in an economic benefit of approximately 14.437 billion Chinese Yuan. What are the implications for public health practice?: The findings of this study offer valuable evidence to inform the development of localized HIV prevention and control strategies, as well as to guide public health policymaking.

Sexual activity, sexual satisfaction and their correlates among older adults in China: findings from the sexual well-being (SWELL) study.

Background: Sexual activity is important to the holistic health of older adults. However, the sexual lives of older adults are understudied. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlates of sexual activity and sexual satisfaction among older adults in China. Methods: In this multi-centre cross-sectional study, individuals aged 50 years and older were recruited from four regions in China between June 2020 and December 2022. An investigator-administered questionnaire was completed to collect information on socio-demographics, health status (general health and specific health), and sexual health characteristics. Sexual activity (including vaginal, oral, or anal sex) in the past year was treated as sexually active. Sexual satisfaction was measured using a validated five-point Likert scale. Logistic regression was used to assess correlates of sexual activity and sexual satisfaction. Findings: 3001 older adults (1182 women and 1819 men, mean age 60.3 ± 7.8 years) were recruited. Most participants were living in urban areas (1688, 56.2%), in a stable relationship (2531, 84.3%), and satisfied with life (2141, 71.3%). 46.8% of men and 40.7% of women were sexually active. Better self-reported general health status (good: aOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.34-0.82; fair: 0.47, 0.29-0.76; bad or very bad: 0.58, 0.35-0.96; versus very good), no difficulty walking upstairs (0.63, 0.41-0.97), diabetes (0.64, 0.42-0.98), and menopause (0.57, 0.36-0.92), were associated with sexual activity among women. Such an association was not found among men. Among sexually active participants, about three-quarters (men: 73.6%, women: 73.4%) were sexually satisfied. Self-reported general health status (men [good: 0.25, 0.12-0.53; fair: 0.17, 0.08-0.37; bad or very bad: 0.15, 0.06-0.34]; women [good: 0.27, 0.10-0.70; fair: 0.11, 0.04-0.30; bad or very bad: 0.11, 0.04-0.32]), life satisfaction (men: 1.73, 1.22-2.46; women: 2.23, 1.34-3.71) and talking about sexual preferences with a partner (men: 1.77, 1.23-2.56; women: 2.93, 1.69-5.09) were associated with sexual satisfaction. Interpretation: Older adults who had better health status and talked easily with their partners about their sex life were more likely to report sexual satisfaction. For women, better self-reported general health status and lack of disability were associated with sexual activity. Further research should address measures that improve sexual satisfaction, especially among sexually active older adults. Funding: This study was supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China International/Regional Research Collaboration Project [72061137001] and the Economic and Social Research Council [ES/T014547/1].

Loneliness and its correlates among older adults living with HIV: A multicenter cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: With the aging among people living with HIV, it is critical to understand the health needs of older adults (aged 50 years and above) living with HIV (OALHIV). Loneliness, as the next critical public health issue, was rarely mentioned among OALHIV. METHODS: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2021 and April 2022. Participants were recruited from infectious diseases hospitals that provide HIV care in four cities in China. The associations with loneliness symptoms (measured by a three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale) were analyzed by logistic regression models. RESULTS: A total of 680 OALHIV (500 men, 180 women, mean age 60.3 ± 7.8 years) were included in the analysis. About one-fifth (18.1 %) of OALHIV reported loneliness symptoms. Living in urban areas (aOR 3.50, 95 % CI 1.76-6.95), having children without close intergenerational relationships (2.85, 1.15-7.07), higher self-perceptions of aging (1.10, 1.06-1.15), being heterosexual (0.26, 0.13-0.52) or bisexual (0.37, 0.16-0.82), having children with whom they kept close intergenerational relationships (0.36, 0.14-0.98), and reporting life satisfaction (0.40, 0.24-0.66), were associated with loneliness symptoms. LIMITATIONS: This study is a cross-sectional study and only included OALHIV who participated in antiretroviral therapy treatment for >18 months, which is not widely representative. CONCLUSIONS: Loneliness was prevalent among OALHIV. Living in urban areas, being homosexual, having children with whom they kept fragile intergenerational relationships, being dissatisfied with life, and having higher self-perceptions of aging were independent risk factors for loneliness. Routine health management for OALHIV needs to incorporate the assessment of aging perceptions and loneliness.

Willingness of people living with HIV to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose: a multicenter cross-sectional study in China.

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly affected the global population, with People Living with HIV (PLWH) being particularly vulnerable due to their compromised immune systems. Although vaccination is a crucial preventative measure against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, little is understood about the willingness of PLWH to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose and the factors that may influence this decision. This study investigates the willingness of PLWH in China to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose and its influencing factors, comparing these with a group of healthy individuals. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted across five Chinese cities, namely, Beijing, Tianjin, Zhengzhou, Hohhot, and Harbin. Participants were recruited through five community-based organizations. Data were collected via participant self-administered questionnaires included demographic information, willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose, and knowledge about HIV and COVID-19 vaccination. Factors influencing vaccination willingness were identified using multivariable logistic regression analyzes. Results: A total of 156 PLWH and 151 healthy individuals were included in the study. After adjusting for potential confounders, it was found that PLWH demonstrated a lower willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose compared to healthy individuals (77.6% vs. 88.7%, p = 0.009). Lower willingness was associated with HIV positive status (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 0.39, 95%CI: 0.20, 0.75), perceived barriers (AOR: 0.05, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.26), and perceived severity (AOR: 0.32, 95%CI: 0.12, 0.90). Conclusion: PLWH in China demonstrated a lower willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose compared to healthy individuals. The findings suggest that perceptions and understanding of the COVID-19 vaccination and its necessity for protection against SARS-CoV-2 could influence this willingness. Efforts should be made to strengthen and disseminate knowledge about HIV and COVID-19 vaccinations among this population. In addition, developing interventions and policies that target specific subgroups and address misconceptions about vaccination could be instrumental in improving vaccination rates among PLWH.

Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision and Incident HIV Infection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China (The CoM Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses based on observational studies have shown voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) may reduce HIV risk among men who have sex with men (MSM). There is a lack of randomized controlled trial (RCT) data assessing the efficacy of VMMC. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of VMMC for preventing HIV acquisition among MSM who primarily engage in insertive anal sex. METHODS: A multicenter RCT will be conducted among MSM in 8 cities in China. Eligible participants are men aged 18-49 years who self-report ≥2 male sex partners in the past 6 months, predominantly practice insertive anal sex, and are willing to undergo circumcision. Interested men who satisfy inclusion criteria will be tested for HIV 1 month before enrollment and at enrollment, and only those who are HIV negative will be enrolled. At baseline, all enrolled participants will be asked to report sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors; provide a blood sample for HIV, syphilis, and herpes simplex virus type 2 testing; and provide a penile swab for human papillomavirus testing. Participants will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. Those in the intervention group will receive VMMC and undergo a web-based weekly follow-up assessment of postsurgery healing for 6 consecutive weeks. All participants will be tested for HIV at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month follow-ups. All participants will also be asked to report sexual behaviors and undergo repeat herpes simplex virus type 2 and human papillomavirus testing at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. The primary end point is HIV seroconversion. Secondary end points are the safety and satisfaction with VMMC and the changes in sexual behaviors after VMMC. The grouped censored data will be analyzed by intention-to-treat approach. RESULTS: Recruitment for the RCT began in August 2020 and continued through July 2022. Data collection is expected to be completed by July 2023, and full data analysis is going to be completed by September 2023. CONCLUSIONS: This study will be the first RCT to assess the efficacy of VMMC in preventing HIV infection among MSM. Results from this trial will provide preliminary evidence for the potential efficacy of VMMC to reduce incident HIV infection among MSM. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000039436; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=63369. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/47160.

The safety and immunogenicity of a two-dose schedule of CoronaVac, and the immune persistence of vaccination for six months, in people living with HIV: A multicenter prospective cohort study.

Background: People living with HIV (PLWH) are more vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2. However, evidence on the immunogenicity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines in this population is insufficient. The objective of this study is to assess the immunogenicity and safety of the two-dose schedule of Sinovac CoronaVac for 6 months postvaccination in PLWH. Methods: We conducted a multicenter prospective cohort study among PLWH and HIV-negative adults in China. Participants who received two doses of CoronaVac prior to the recruitment were allocated into two groups and followed up for 6 months. The neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), immunoglobulin G against the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein (S-IgG), and gamma-interferon (IFN-γ) were measured to assess the associations among CoronaVac immunogenicity and related factors. Adverse reactions were collected to evaluate the safety profile of vaccination. Results: A total of 203 PLWH and 100 HIV-negative individuals were enrolled. A small portion of participants reported mild or moderate adverse reactions without serious adverse events. Median nAbs level in PLWH (31.96 IU/mL, IQR: 12.34-76.40) was lower than that in the control group (46.52 IU/mL, IQR: 29.08-77.30) at the 2-4 weeks postvaccination (P=0.002), and the same trend was presented for median S-IgG titer (37.09 vs. 60.02 IU/ml) (both P <0.05). The nAbs seroconversion rate in the PLWH group was also lower than in the control group (75.86% vs. 89.00%). After then, the immune responses reduced over time in term of only 23.04% of PLWH and 36.00% of HIV-negative individuals had a positive seroconversion for nAbs at 6-month. The multivariable generalized estimating equation analysis showed that PLWH with CD4+T count≥350 cells/µL presented higher immune response than PLWH with CD4+T count <350 cells/µL in terms of antibody seroconversion and titers. The immunogenicity did not differ in participants with low or high HIV viral load. The S-antigen specific IFN-γ immunity was generally stable and had a slow attenuation in both two groups for 6 months postvaccination. Conclusion: The Sinovac CoronaVac was generally safe and immunogenic in PLWH, but the immunity response was inferior and the antibodies vanished faster compared to HIV-negative individuals. This study suggested a shorter than 6-month interval of prime-boost vaccination for PLWH to ensure a better protection.

Sexual well-being among older adults in China (SWELL): protocol for a multicenter cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Existing studies on sexual health generally focus on younger populations, while the sexual well-being of older adults has received insufficient attention. This protocol describes the design of a study on sexual well-being and its correlates among older adults in China. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: We present the protocol for a multicentre observational study to investigate sexual well-being among Chinese older adults (SWELL). Eligible participants are men and women aged 50 years and older from East, West, South and North China, including older adults living in the community and older adults living with HIV. A multistage sampling approach is used in the SWELL Study. We will collect a questionnaire about sexual health (sexual knowledge, sexual attitude, sexual behaviours, sexually transmitted infections, etc). Blood specimens will be tested for sex hormones (estradiol for women, testosterone for men), biochemical items (eg, cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, urea, creatinine and uric acid) and syphilis (determined by toluidine red unheated serum test and Treponema pallidum particle agglutination test). The primary analysis will elucidate the current status of sexual health among older adults in China and its correlates. Secondary analyses will compare sexual well-being among older adults in four regions across China. Approximately 3540 older adults will be recruited into the SWELL Study. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University (approval number SYSU-PHS[2019]006). Verbal informed consent will be obtained from all participants before any study procedure. Data will be anonymised, and participants will not be identified through any data, transcripts or publications. Findings from the SWELL Study will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed scientific journals and at national and international conferences.

Detection of HIV/AIDS cases in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality from 2005 to 2021 / 预防医学

Objective@#To investigate the detection of HIV/AIDS cases in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality from 2005 to 2021, so as to provide insights into optimization of HIV antibody testing strategies in medical institutions.@*Methods@#All data pertaining to individuals receiving HIV antibody tests in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality from 2005 to 2021 were collected from the information systems in medical institutions and the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Information System of Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Information System. The positive rate of HIV antibody and epidemiological characteristics of HIV/AIDS cases in medical institutions were analyzed.@*Results@#The number of HIV antibody tests increased from 86 102 person-times in 2005 to 1 369 345 person-times in 2021 in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality, with annual increase by 18.88%. The positive rate of HIV antibody increased from 2.44/104 to 2.85/104 (P<0.05), with annual increase by 2.79/104. Both the proportion of the number of HIV antibody tests and the number of HIV/AIDS cases detected by medical institutions in the whole city appeared a tendency towards a rise (P<0.05). A high positive rate of HIV antibody was seen in sexually transmitted disease clinics (53.69/104) and other testing services (12.25/104), and the highest positive rate of HIV antibody was seen in individuals at ages of 20 to 39 years (5.40/104), while the positive rate of HIV antibody was higher in men (5.84/104) than in women (0.53/104) (P<0.05). A total of 3 610 HIV/AIDS cases were detected in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality from 2005 to 2021, with a median age of 38 (interquartile range, 24) years. Of all HIV/AIDS patients, there were 3 277 men (90.78%), and men who have sex with men was the predominant transmission route (63.46%), while the proportion of late identification of HIV/AIDS cases was 65.60%. In addition, the proportion of timely detection for the first CD4+T lymphocyte count testing increased from 23.81% in 2005 to 71.54% in 2021 (P<0.05).@*Conclusions@#The number of HIV antibody tests and positive rate of HIV antibody appeared a tendency towards a rise in medical institutions in Tianjin Municipality from 2005 to 2021. The HIV/AIDS cases were predominantly identified in sexually transmitted disease clinics and other testing services, and were predominantly men.

Sexual behaviour changes and HIV infection among men who have sex with men: evidence from an open cohort in China.

BACKGROUND: The HIV epidemic in key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM) is a public health issue of worldwide concern. China has seen an increase in newly diagnosed HIV infections through male-male sexual contact in the past decade. In a long-term cohort, how the complex behaviour pattern of MSM changed and the association with the HIV risk are unclear at present. METHODS: This study was conducted from October 2011 to December 2019 in Tianjin. MSM were recruited by snowball sampling through online and offline ways. Demographic and sexual behavioural data were collected for analysis. Three indicators (condom use in last anal sex, frequency of condom use during anal sex and the number of sexual partners) were used to define the behaviour change. Participants with zero, one, and two or three risk indicators were categorised into behaviour types of 'protective', 'moderate', and 'fragile', respectively. Change in behaviour type between baseline and each visit was considered. Time-varying Cox models were performed to evaluate HIV infection risk. RESULTS: Of 2029 MSM included in the study, 127 were new HIV diagnoses. The overall incidence rate was 3.36 per 100 person-years. The percentage of 'protective' and 'moderate' behaviour types had a conspicuous growth trend as the follow-up. Furthermore, the HIV incidence rate in each visit among different behaviour transition types showed a general downward trend as the number of total follow-up times increased. Individuals who remained in 'fragile' (adjusted HR (aHR): 25.86, 95% CI: 6.92 to 96.57) or changed from 'protective' to 'moderate' (aHR: 4.79, 95% CI: 1.18 to 19.47), 'protective' to 'fragile' (aHR: 23.03, 95% CI: 6.02 to 88.13), and 'moderate' to 'fragile' (aHR: 25.48, 95% CI: 6.79 to 95.40) between baseline and the last follow-up had a higher HIV risk. Gained risk indicators were associated with the increase of HIV risk (gained one indicator, aHR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.68 to 4.24; gained two or three indicators, aHR: 4.99, 95% CI: 3.00 to 8.31) while losing just one risk indicator could halve the risk (aHR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.90). CONCLUSIONS: Among MSM in Tianjin, it is necessary to get timely behaviour change for those with high-incidence behaviour patterns while sustaining for those with low-incidence patterns. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2000039500).