Last data update: Dec 09, 2024. (Total: 48320 publications since 2009)
Records 1-30 (of 39 Records) |
Query Trace: Jarvis D[original query] |
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Understanding community resilience during the drinking water contamination event on Oahu, Hawaii, 2021-2022: a mixed mode approach
Parasram V , Smith AR , Bolduc MLF , Rayman J , Poniatowski A , Mintz N , Jarvis M , Troeschel AN , Miko S , Surasi K , Edge C , Gerhardstein B , Felton D , Orr MF . BMC Public Health 2024 24 (1) 3176 BACKGROUND: A petroleum leak into the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam water system on Oahu, Hawaii in November 2021 contaminated the drinking water of approximately 93,000 users, causing many to relocate for months. Perceptions of health and wellbeing were captured using the Centers for Disease Control/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (CDC/ATSDR) Assessment of Chemical Exposures (ACE) cross-sectional survey in collaboration with the Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH). METHODS: Responses from the ACE online survey of community members, businesses, schools, health care and veterinary care organizations during the contamination event, containing quantitative questions and qualitative information from an open text field, were analyzed. Separately, a qualitative key informant questionnaire was administered to community establishments. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze and identify prominent themes from the ACE open text field and the key informant responses that were triangulated by the quantitative data when the themes aligned. RESULTS: Six major themes of disruption, communication, trust, stress, support, and ongoing needs were identified. Burdensome logistics from obtaining alternate water, negative financial impacts from relocation or losing business, distrust of information, perceived lack of support from response entities and uncertainty of long-term health impact caused significant disruption, stress and mental health. Individuals reported needing water, shelter, and mental health care while establishments wanted financial reimbursement and a resolution. CONCLUSIONS: The findings show that environmental disasters have significant disruptive and mental health impacts from stress. Identified themes can inform and improve emergency response and communication strategies and increase trust with community members during and after large chemical exposure events. |
Induction-phase treatment costs for cryptococcal meningitis in high HIV-burden African countries: New opportunities with lower costs
Larson B , Shroufi A , Muthoga C , Oladele R , Rajasingham R , Jordan A , Jarvis JN , Chiller TM , Govender NP . Wellcome Open Res 12/28/2021 6 140 Introduction: Access to and the cost of induction treatment for cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is rapidly changing. The newly-announced price for flucytosine ($0.75 per 500 mg pill) and possibly lower prices for liposomal amphotericin B (AmB-L) create opportunities to reduce CM treatment costs compared to the current standard treatment in low- and middle-income countries. Methods: We developed an Excel-based cost model to estimate health system treatment costs for CM over a two-week induction phase for multiple treatment combinations, newly feasible with improved access to flucytosine and AmB-L. CM treatment costs include medications, laboratory tests and other hospital-based costs (bed-day costs and healthcare worker time). We report results from applying the model using country-specific information for South Africa, Uganda, Nigeria, and Botswana. Results: A 14-day induction-phase of seven days of inpatient AmB-D with flucytosine, followed by seven days of high-dose fluconazole as an outpatient, will cost health systems less than a 14-day hospital stay with AmB-D and fluconazole. If daily AmB-L replaces AmB-D for those with baseline renal dysfunction, with a cost of $50 or less per 50 mg vial, incremental costs would still be less than the AmB-D with fluconazole regimen. Simple oral combinations (e.g., seven days of flucytosine with fluconazole as an inpatient) are practical when AmB-D is not available, and treatment costs would remain less than the current standard treatment. Conclusions: Improved access to and lower prices for flucytosine and AmB-L create opportunities for improving CM treatment regimens. An induction regimen of flucytosine and AmB-D for seven days is less costly than standard care in the settings studied here. As this regimen has also been shown to be more effective than current standard care, countries should prioritize scaling up flucytosine access. The cost of AmB-L based regimens is highly dependent on the price of AmB-L, which currently remains unclear. |
Prevalence and control of hypertension in a high HIV-prevalence setting, insights from a population based study in Botswana
Mosepele M , Bennett K , Gaolathe T , Makhema JM , Mmalane M , Holme MP , Lebelonyane R , Ometoruwa O , Mills LA , Powis KM , Leidner J , Jarvis JN , Tapela NM , Masupe T , Mokgatlhe L , Triant VA , Wirth KE , Moshomo T , Lockman S . Sci Rep 2023 13 (1) 17814 In a population-based representative sample of adults residing in 22 communities in Botswana, a southern African country with high HIV prevalence, 1 in 4 individuals had high blood pressure. High blood pressure was less prevalent in adults with HIV than without HIV. Sixty percent of persons with high blood pressure had not previously been diagnosed. Among individuals with a prior diagnosis of high blood pressure who reported being prescribed anti-hypertension medications, almost half had elevated blood pressure, irrespective of HIV-status. One-third of adults in this setting (mainly men) declined free non-invasive blood pressure assessments in their households. In conclusion, our study highlights alarmingly high hypertension rates in the community, with low levels of awareness and control, emphasizing the urgent need for community level BP screening and active management to reach recommended targets. |
Community health impacts after a jet fuel leak contaminated a drinking water system: Oahu, Hawaii, November 2021
Miko S , Poniatowski AR , Troeschel AN , Felton DJ , Banerji S , Bolduc MLF , Bronstein AC , Cavanaugh AM , Edge C , Gates AL , Jarvis M , Mintz NA , Parasram V , Rayman J , Smith AR , Wagner JC , Gerhardstein BG , Orr MF . J Water Health 2023 21 (7) 956-971 BACKGROUND: In 2021, a large petroleum leak contaminated a water source that supplied drinking water to military and civilians in Oahu, Hawaii. METHODS: We conducted an Assessment of Chemical Exposures (ACE) survey and supplemented that information with complementary data sources: (1) poison center caller records; (2) emergency department visit data; and (3) a key informant questionnaire. RESULTS: Among 2,289 survey participants, 86% reported ≥1 new or worsening symptom, 75% of which lasted ≥30 days, and 37% sought medical care. Most (n = 1,653, 72%) reported new mental health symptoms. Among equally observable symptoms across age groups, proportions of children ≤2 years experiencing vomiting, runny nose, skin rashes, and coughing (33, 46, 56, and 35%, respectively) were higher than other age groups. Poison center calls increased the first 2 weeks after the contamination, while emergency department visits increased in early December 2021. Key informant interviews revealed themes of lack of support, mental health symptoms, and long-term health impact concerns. DISCUSSION: This event led to widespread exposure to petroleum products and negatively affected thousands of people. Follow-up health surveys or interventions should give special consideration to longer-term physical and mental health, especially children due to their unique sensitivity to environmental exposures. |
Essential public health functions are not enough: fostering linkages between functions through National Public Health Institutes improves public health impact
Zuber A , Pearson J , Sebeh Y , Jarvis D , Bratton S . BMJ Glob Health 2023 8 (6) COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of essential public health functions (EPHFs) and the coordination between them. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines EPHFs as 'the public health activities that all communities should undertake'. According to multiple functional frameworks published in literature, the functions typically include workforce development, surveillance, public health research, laboratory services, health promotion, outbreak response and emergency management. National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) are often the lead government agency responsible for execution of these functions.This paper describes how NPHIs or other health authorities can improve public health impact by enhancing the coordination of public health functions and public health actors through functional and organisational linkages. We define public health linkages as practical, replicable activities that facilitate collaboration between public health functions or organisations to improve public health. In this paper, we propose a novel typology to categorise important public health linkages and describe enablers of linkages identified through our research.Based on our research, investments in health systems should move beyond vertical approaches to developing public health capacity and place greater emphasis on strengthening the interactions between public health functions and institutions. Development of linkages and their enablers require a purposeful, proactive focus that establishes and strengthens linkages over time and cannot be developed during an outbreak or other public health emergency. |
Uganda's experience in establishing an electronic compendium for public health emergencies
Ario AR , Aliddeki DM , Kadobera D , Bulage L , Kayiwa J , Wetaka MM , Kyazze S , Ocom F , Makumbi I , Mbaka P , Behumbiize P , Ayebazibwe I , Balinandi SK , Lutwama JJ , Crawley A , Divi N , Lule JR , Ojwang JC , Harris JR , Boore AL , Nelson LJ , Borchert J , Jarvis D . PLOS Glob Public Health 2023 3 (2) e0001402 Uganda has implemented several interventions that have contributed to prevention, early detection, and effective response to Public Health Emergencies (PHEs). However, there are gaps in collecting and documenting data on the overall response to these PHEs. We set out to establish a comprehensive electronic database of PHEs that occurred in Uganda since 2000. We constituted a core development team, developed a data dictionary, and worked with Health Information Systems Program (HISP)-Uganda to develop and customize a compendium of PHEs using the electronic Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (eIDSR) module on the District Health Information Software version 2 (DHIS2) platform. We reviewed literature for retrospective data on PHEs for the compendium. Working with the Uganda Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC), we prospectively updated the compendium with real-time data on reported PHEs. We developed a user's guide to support future data entry teams. An operational compendium was developed within the eIDSR module of the DHIS2 platform. The variables for PHEs data collection include those that identify the type, location, nature and time to response of each PHE. The compendium has been updated with retrospective PHE data and real-time prospective data collection is ongoing. Data within this compendium is being used to generate information that can guide future outbreak response and management. The compendium development highlights the importance of documenting outbreak detection and response data in a central location for future reference. This data provides an opportunity to evaluate and inform improvements in PHEs response. |
Exploratory literature review of the role of National Public Health Institutes in COVID-19 response
Zuber A , Sebeh Y , Jarvis D , Bratton S . Emerg Infect Dis 2022 28 (13) S151-s158 To help explain the diversity of COVID-19 outcomes by country, research teams worldwide are studying national government response efforts. However, these attempts have not focused on a critical national authority that exists in half of the countries in the world: national public health institutes (NPHIs). NPHIs serve as an institutional home for public health systems and expertise and play a leading role in epidemic responses. To characterize the role of NPHIs in the COVID-19 response, we conducted a descriptive literature review that explored the research documented during March 2020-May 2021. We conducted a name-based search of 61 NPHIs in the literature, representing over half of the world's NPHIs. We identified 33 peer-reviewed and 300 gray articles for inclusion. We describe the most common NPHI-led COVID-19 activities that are documented and identify gaps in the literature. Our findings underscore the value of NPHIs for epidemic control and establish a foundation for primary research. |
Accuracy of point-of-care HIV and CD4 field testing by lay healthcare workers in the Botswana combination prevention project
Bile EC , Bachanas PJ , Jarvis JN , Maurice F , Makovore V , Chebani L , Jackson KG , Birhanu S , Maphorisa C , Mbulawa MB , Alwano MG , Sexton C , Modise S , Bapati W , Segolodi T , Moore J , Fonjungo PN . J Virol Methods 2022 311 114647 Accurate HIV and CD4 testing are critical in program implementation, with HIV misdiagnosis having serious consequences at both the client and/or community level. We implemented a comprehensive training and Quality Assurance (QA) program to ensure accuracy of point-of-care HIV and CD4 count testing by lay counsellors during the Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP). We compared the performance of field testing by lay counselors to results from an accredited laboratory to ascertain accuracy of testing. All trained lay counselors passed competency assessments and performed satisfactorily in proficiency testing panel evaluations in 2013, 2014, and 2015. There was excellent agreement (99.6%) between field and laboratory-based HIV test results; of the 3002 samples tested, 960 and 2030 were concordantly positive and negative respectively, with 12 misclassifications (kappa score 0.99, p < 0.0001). Of the 149 HIV-positive samples enumerated for CD4 count in the field using PIMA at a threshold of 350 cells/L; there was 86% agreement with laboratory testing, with only 21 misclassified. The mean difference between field and lab CD4 testing was -16.16 cells/L (95% CI -5.4 - 26.9). Overall, there was excellent agreement between field and laboratory results for both HIV rapid test and PIMA CD4 results. A standard training package to train lay counselors to accurately perform HIV and CD4 point-of-care testing in field settings was feasible, with point-of-care results obtained by lay counselors comparable to laboratory-based testing. |
Uganda National Institute of Public Health: Establishment and experiences, 2013-2021
Ario AR , Makumbi I , Kadobera D , Bulage L , Ocom F , Kwesiga B , Jarvis DF , Nabatanzi S , Homsy J , Banage F , Brown V , Harris JR , Boore AL , Nelson LJ , Binder S , Mwebesa HG , Aceng JR . Glob Health Sci Pract 2022 10 (4) Uganda is an ecological hot spot with porous borders that lies in several infectious disease transmission belts, making it prone to disease outbreaks. To prepare and respond to these public health threats and emergencies in a coordinated manner, Uganda established the Uganda National Institute of Public Health (UNIPH) in 2013.Using a step-by-step process, Uganda's Ministry of Health (MOH) crafted a strategy with a vision, mission, goal, and strategic objectives, and identified value additions and key enablers for success. A regulatory impact assessment was then conducted to inform the drafting of principles of the bill for legislation on the Institute.Despite not yet attaining legal status, the UNIPH has already achieved faster, smarter, and more efficient and effective prevention, detection, and response to public health emergencies. Successes include a more coordinated multisectoral, disciplined, and organized response to emergencies; appropriate, timely, and complete information receipt and sharing; a functional national lab sample and results transportation network that has enabled detection and confirmation of public health events within 48 hours of alert; appropriate response to a confirmed public health event in 24-48 hours; and real-time surveillance of endemic- and epidemic-prone diseases.In this article, we document success stories, lessons learned, and challenges encountered during the unique staged process used to develop the components of the UNIPH. The creation of an integrated disease control center has proven to yield better collaboration and synergies between different arms of epidemic preparedness and response. |
Qualitative evaluation of enabling factors and barriers to the success and sustainability of national public health institutes in Cambodia, Colombia, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda and Zambia
Woldetsadik MA , Bratton S , Fitzpatrick K , Ravat F , Del Castillo L , McIntosh KJ , Jarvis D , Carnevale CR , Cassell CH , Chhea C , Prieto Alvarado F , MaCauley J , Jani I , Ilori E , Nsanzimana S , Mukonka VM , Baggett HC . BMJ Open 2022 12 (4) e056767 OBJECTIVES: The success of National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) is critical to countries' ability to deliver public health services to their populations and effectively respond to public health emergencies. However, empirical data are limited on factors that promote or are barriers to the sustainability of NPHIs. This evaluation explored stakeholders' perceptions about enabling factors and barriers to the success and sustainability of NPHIs in seven countries where the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has supported NPHI development and strengthening. DESIGN: Qualitative study. SETTING: Cambodia, Colombia, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda and Zambia. PARTICIPANTS: NPHI staff, non-NPHI government staff, and non-governmental and international organisation staff. METHODS: We conducted semistructured, in-person interviews at a location chosen by the participants in the seven countries. We analysed data using a directed content analysis approach. RESULTS: We interviewed 43 NPHI staff, 29 non-NPHI government staff and 24 staff from non-governmental and international organisations. Participants identified five enabling factors critical to the success and sustainability of NPHIs: (1) strong leadership, (2) financial autonomy, (3) political commitment and country ownership, (4) strengthening capacity of NPHI staff and (5) forming strategic partnerships. Three themes emerged related to major barriers or threats to the sustainability of NPHIs: (1) reliance on partner funding to maintain key activities, (2) changes in NPHI leadership and (3) staff attrition and turnover. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings contribute to the scant literature on sustainability of NPHIs in LMICs by identifying essential components of sustainability and types of support needed from various stakeholders. Integrating these components into each step of NPHI development and ensuring sufficient support will be critical to strengthening public health systems and safeguarding their continuity. Our findings offer potential approaches for country leadership to direct efforts to strengthen and sustain NPHIs. |
The Use of Whole-Genome Sequencing by the Federal Interagency Collaboration for Genomics for Food and Feed Safety in the United States.
Stevens EL , Carleton HA , Beal J , Tillman GE , Lindsey RL , Lauer AC , Pightling A , Jarvis KG , Ottesen A , Ramachandran P , Hintz L , Katz LS , Folster JP , Whichard JM , Trees E , Timme RE , McDermott P , Wolpert B , Bazaco M , Zhao S , Lindley S , Bruce BB , Griffin PM , Brown E , Allard M , Tallent S , Irvin K , Hoffmann M , Wise M , Tauxe R , Gerner-Smidt P , Simmons M , Kissler B , Defibaugh-Chavez S , Klimke W , Agarwala R , Lindsay J , Cook K , Austerman SR , Goldman D , McGarry S , Hale KR , Dessai U , Musser SM , Braden C . J Food Prot 2022 85 (5) 755-772 This multi-agency report developed under the Interagency Collaboration for Genomics for Food and Feed Safety (Gen-FS) provides an overview of the use of and transition to Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS) technology to detect and characterize pathogens transmitted commonly by food and identify their sources. We describe foodborne pathogen analysis, investigation, and harmonization efforts among federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH); the Department of Health and Human Services' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). We describe single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), core-genome (cg) and whole-genome multi-locus sequence typing (wgMLST) data analysis methods as used in CDC's PulseNet and FDA's GenomeTrakr networks, underscoring the complementary nature of the results for linking genetically related foodborne pathogens during outbreak investigations while allowing flexibility to meet the specific needs of Gen-FS agency partners. We highlight how we apply WGS to pathogen characterization (virulence and antimicrobial resistance profiles), source attribution efforts, and increasing transparency by making the sequences and other data publicly available through the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Finally, we highlight the impact of current trends in the use of culture-independent diagnostics tests (CIDT) for human diagnostic testing on analytical approaches related to food safety. Lastly, we highlight what is next for WGS in food safety. |
Cost-effectiveness of cryptococcal antigen screening at CD4 counts of 101-200 cells/L in Botswana
Tenforde MW , Muthoga C , Ponatshego P , Ngidi J , Mine M , Greene G , Jordan A , Chiller T , Larson BA , Jarvis JN . Wellcome Open Res 2021 6 55 Background: Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening in individuals with advanced HIV reduces cryptococcal meningitis (CM) cases and deaths. The World Health Organization recently recommended increasing screening thresholds from CD4 ≤100 cells/µL to ≤200 cells/µL. CrAg screening at CD4 ≤100 cells/µL is cost-effective; however, the cost-effectiveness of screening patients with CD4 101-200 cells/µL requires evaluation. Methods: Using a decision analytic model with Botswana-specific cost and clinical estimates, we evaluated CrAg screening and treatment among individuals with CD4 counts of 101-200 cells/µL. We estimated the number of CM cases and deaths nationally and treatment costs without screening. For screening we modeled the number of CrAg tests performed, number of CrAg-positive patients identified, proportion started on pre-emptive fluconazole, CM cases and deaths. Screening and treatment costs were estimated and cost per death averted or disability-adjusted life year (DALY) saved compared with no screening. Results: Without screening, we estimated 142 CM cases and 85 deaths annually among individuals with CD4 101-200 cells/µL, with treatment costs of $368,982. With CrAg screening, an estimated 33,036 CrAg tests are performed, and 48 deaths avoided (1,017 DALYs saved). While CrAg screening costs an additional $155,601, overall treatment costs fall by $39,600 (preemptive and hospital-based CM treatment), yielding a net increase of $116,001. Compared to no screening, high coverage of CrAg screening and pre-emptive treatment for CrAg-positive individuals in this population avoids one death for $2440 and $114 per DALY saved. In sensitivity analyses assuming a higher proportion of antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve patients (75% versus 15%), cost per death averted was $1472; $69 per DALY saved. Conclusions: CrAg screening for individuals with CD4 101-200 cells/µL was estimated to have a modest impact, involve additional costs, and be less cost-effective than screening populations with CD4 counts ≤100 cells/µL. Additional CrAg screening costs must be considered against other health system priorities. |
Stakeholders' assessment of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's contributions to the development of National Public Health Institutes in seven countries
Woldetsadik MA , Fitzpatrick K , Del Castillo L , Miller B , Jarvis D , Carnevale C , Ravat F , Cassell CH , Williams A , Young SK , Clemente J , Baggett HC , Bratton S . J Public Health Policy 2021 42 (4) 589-601 National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) can strengthen countries' public health capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to public health emergencies. This qualitative evaluation assessed the role of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in NPHI development and strengthening of public health functions. We interviewed NPHI staff (N = 43), non-NPHI government staff (N = 29), and non-governmental organization staff (N = 24) in seven countries where CDC has supported NPHI development: Cambodia, Colombia, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Zambia. Participants identified four areas of support that were the most important: workforce capacity building, technical assistance for key public health functions, identifying institutional gaps and priorities, and funding to support countries' priorities. Participants underscored the need for capacity building directed toward country-driven priorities during planning and implementation. Continued support for NPHI development from CDC and other partners is vital to building stronger public health systems, improving population health, and strengthening global health security. |
Ending deaths from HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis by 2030
Shroufi A , Chiller T , Jordan A , Denning DW , Harrison TS , Govender NP , Loyse A , Baptiste S , Rajasingham R , Boulware DR , Ribeiro I , Jarvis JN , Van Cutsem G . Lancet Infect Dis 2020 21 (1) 16-18 The UNAIDS target to reduce HIV-related death to fewer than 500 000 deaths per year by 2020 will not be met.1 This statement might not be headline grabbing as this target was never as prominent as the 90-90-90 targets,2 the achievement of which is a necessary but not sufficient step towards ending AIDS mortality. | | The decline in HIV-related deaths is too slow. Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV is the most important intervention for reducing HIV-related deaths. Access to ART for all is a distant goal in some settings due to ongoing challenges in identifying people with HIV and getting them on to treatment1 and ART alone isn’t enough to fully address HIV-related deaths. Among adults and adolescents, advanced HIV disease is diagnosed as a CD4 count of fewer than 200 cells per μL or a WHO stage 3 or 4 event.3 Evidence from South Africa shows more advanced HIV disease among ART-experienced people than among ART-naive people.4 Efforts to prevent disease progression will never replace the need for parallel improvements in the treatment of opportunistic infections. |
Rapid antiretroviral therapy initiation in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project: a quasi-experimental before and after study
Lebelonyane R , Bachanas P , Block L , Ussery F , Abrams W , Roland M , Theu J , Kapanda M , Matambo S , Lockman S , Gaolathe T , Makhema J , Moore J , Jarvis JN . Lancet HIV 2020 7 (8) e545-e553 BACKGROUND: Ensuring that individuals who are living with HIV rapidly initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an essential step in meeting the 90-90-90 targets. We evaluated the feasibility and outcomes of rapid ART initiation in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP). We aimed to establish whether simplified ART initiation with the offer of same-day treatment could increase uptake and reduce time from clinic linkage to treatment initiation, while maintaining rates of retention in care and viral suppression. METHODS: We did a quasi-experimental before and after study with use of data from the BCPP. The BCPP was a community-randomised HIV-prevention trial done in 30 communities across Botswana from Oct 1, 2013, to June 30, 2018. Participants in the 15 intervention clusters, who were HIV-positive and not already taking ART were offered universal HIV-treatment and same-day ART with a dolutegravir-based regimen at first clinic visit. This rapid ART intervention was implemented mid-way through the trial on June 1, 2016, enabling us to determine the effect of rapid ART guidelines on time to ART initiation and rates of retention in care and viral suppression at 1 year in the BCPP intervention group. FINDINGS: We assessed 1717 adults linked to study clinics before rapid ART introduction and 800 after rapid ART introduction. During the rapid ART period, 457 (57·1%, 95% CI 53·7-60·6) individuals initiated ART within 1 day of linkage, 589 (73·7%, 70·6-76·7) of 799 within 1 week, 678 (84·9%, 82·4-87·3) of 799 within 1 month, and 744 (93·5%, 91·6-95·1) of 796 within 1 year. Before the introduction of rapid ART, 163 (9·5%, 95% CI 8·2-11·0) individuals initiated ART within 1 day of linkage, 276 (16·1%, 14·4-17·9) within 1 week, 839 (48·9%, 46·5-51·3) within 1 month, and 1532 (89·2%, 87·7-90·6) within 1 year. 1 year after ART initiation, 1472 (90·5%, 87·4-92·8) of 1627 individuals who linked in the standard ART period were in care and had a viral load of less than 400 copies per mL, compared with 578 (91·6%, 88·1-94·1) of 631 in the rapid ART period (risk ratio 1·01, 95% CI 0·92-1·11). INTERPRETATION: Our findings provide support for the WHO recommendations for rapid ART initiation, and add to the accumulating evidence showing the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of rapid ART initiation in low-income and middle-income country settings. FUNDING: US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief. |
Advanced HIV disease in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project: prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes
Lebelonyane R , Mills LA , Mogorosi C , Ussery F , Marukutira T , Theu J , Kapanda M , Matambo S , Block L , Raizes E , Makhema J , Lockman S , Bachanas P , Moore J , Jarvis JN . AIDS 2020 34 (15) 2223-2230 OBJECTIVE(S): To determine the proportion of individuals linking to HIV-care with advanced HIV-disease (CD4 ≤200 cells/μL) in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project, describe the characteristics of these individuals, and examine treatment outcomes. DESIGN: A sub-analysis of a cluster-randomized HIV-prevention trial. HIV status was assessed in 16-64-year-olds through home and mobile testing. All HIV-positive persons not on antiretroviral-therapy (ART) were referred to local Ministry of Health and Wellness clinics for treatment. METHODS: Analysis was restricted to the 15 intervention clusters. The proportion of individuals with advanced HIV disease was determined; associations between advanced HIV disease and sex and age explored; and rates of viral suppression determined at 1-year. Mortality and retention in care were compared between CD4 strata (CD4 ≤200 cells/μL vs. > 200 cells/μL). RESULTS: Overall, 17.2% (430/2,499; 95% confidence interval [CI] 15.7-18.8%) of study participants had advanced HIV disease (CD4 ≤200 cells/μL) at time of clinic linkage. Men were significantly more likely to present with CD4 ≤200 cells/μL than women (23.7% versus 13.4%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.9, 95% CI 1.5-2.3). The risk of advanced HIV disease increased with increasing age (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4-3.2 > 35 years versus < 25 years). Patients with CD4 ≤200 cells/μL had significantly higher rates of attrition from care during follow-up (hazards ratio 1.47, 95% CI 1.1-2.1). CONCLUSIONS: Advanced HIV disease due to late presentation to or disengagement from ART care remains common in the Treat All era in Botswana, calling for innovative testing, linkage, and treatment strategies to engage and retain harder-to-reach populations in care. |
Outcomes of reflex cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening in HIV-positive patients with CD4 counts of 100-200 cells/microL in Botswana
Tenforde MW , Milton T , Rulaganyang I , Muthoga C , Tawe L , Chiller T , Greene G , Jordan A , Williams CG , Owen L , Leeme TB , Boose A , Ngidi J , Mine M , Jarvis JN . Clin Infect Dis 2020 72 (9) 1635-1638 Increasing the CD4-count threshold for cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening from </=100 to </=200 cells/microL resulted in a 3-fold increase in numbers screened. CrAg-prevalence was 3.5% at CD4 101-200 and 6.2% </=100 cells/microL. Six-month mortality was 21.4% (9/42) in CrAg-positive CD4 </=100 cells/microL and 3.2% (1/31) in CrAg-positive CD4 101-200 cells/microL. |
Cryptococcal meningitis: a review of cryptococcal antigen screening programs in Africa
Greene G , Lawrence D , Jordan A , Chiller T , Jarvis JN . Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020 19 (2) 233-244 INTRODUCTION: Cryptococcal meningitis remains a significant contributor to AIDS-related mortality despite widened access to antiretroviral therapy. Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) can be detected in the blood prior to the development of meningitis. The development of highly sensitive and specific rapid diagnostic CrAg tests has helped facilitate the adoption of CrAg screening programs in 19 African countries. AREAS COVERED: The biological rationale for CrAg screening and the programmatic strategies that have been adopted are reviewed. We describe the approach to the investigation of patients with cryptococcal antigenemia and the importance of lumbar puncture to identify individuals who may have cryptococcal meningitis in the absence of symptoms. The limitations of current treatment recommendations and the potential role of newly defined combination antifungal therapies are discussed. A literature review was conducted using a broad database search for cryptococcal antigen screening and related terms in published journal articles dating up to December 2019. Conference abstracts, publicly available guidelines and project descriptions were also incorporated. EXPERT OPINION: As we learn more about the risks of cryptococcal antigenemia, it has become clear that the current management paradigm is inadequate. More intensive investigation and management are required to prevent the development of cryptococcal meningitis and reduce mortality associated with cryptococcal antigenemia. |
Population uptake of HIV testing, treatment, viral suppression, and male circumcision following a community-based intervention in Botswana (Ya Tsie/BCPP): a cluster-randomised trial
Wirth KE , Gaolathe T , Pretorius Holme M , Mmalane M , Kadima E , Chakalisa U , Manyake K , Matildah Mbikiwa A , Simon SV , Letlhogile R , Mukokomani K , van Widenfelt E , Moyo S , Bennett K , Leidner J , Powis KM , Lebelonyane R , Alwano MG , Jarvis J , Dryden-Peterson SL , Kgathi C , Moore J , Bachanas P , Raizes E , Abrams W , Block L , Sento B , Novitsky V , El-Halabi S , Marukutira T , Mills LA , Sexton C , Pals S , Shapiro RL , Wang R , Lei Q , DeGruttola V , Makhema J , Essex M , Lockman S , Tchetgen Tchetgen EJ . Lancet HIV 2020 7 (6) e422-e433 BACKGROUND: In settings with high HIV prevalence and treatment coverage, such as Botswana, it is unknown whether uptake of HIV prevention and treatment interventions can be increased further. We sought to determine whether a community-based intervention to identify and rapidly treat people living with HIV, and support male circumcision could increase population levels of HIV diagnosis, treatment, viral suppression, and male circumcision in Botswana. METHODS: The Ya Tsie Botswana Combination Prevention Project study was a pair-matched cluster-randomised trial done in 30 communities across Botswana done from Oct 30, 2013, to June 30, 2018. 15 communities were randomly assigned to receive HIV prevention and treatment interventions, including enhanced HIV testing, earlier antiretroviral therapy (ART), and strengthened male circumcision services, and 15 received standard of care. The first primary endpoint of HIV incidence has already been reported. In this Article, we report findings for the second primary endpoint of population uptake of HIV prevention services, as measured by proportion of people known to be HIV-positive or tested HIV-negative in the preceding 12 months; proportion of people living with HIV diagnosed and on ART; proportion of people living with HIV on ART with viral suppression; and proportion of HIV-negative men circumcised. A longitudinal cohort of residents aged 16-64 years from a random, approximately 20% sample of households across the 15 communities was enrolled to assess baseline uptake of study outcomes; we also administered an end-of-study survey to all residents not previously enrolled in the longitudinal cohort to provide study end coverage estimates. Differences in intervention uptake over time by randomisation group were tested via paired Student's t test. The study has been completed and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01965470). FINDINGS: In the six communities participating in the end-of-study survey, 2625 residents (n=1304 from standard-of-care communities, n=1321 from intervention communities) were enrolled into the 20% longitudinal cohort at baseline from Oct 30, 2013, to Nov 24, 2015. In the same communities, 10 791 (86%) of 12 489 eligible enumerated residents not previously enrolled in the longitudinal cohort participated in the end-of-study survey from March 30, 2017, to Feb 25, 2018 (5896 in intervention and 4895 in standard-of-care communities). At study end, in intervention communities, 1228 people living with HIV (91% of 1353) were on ART; 1166 people living with HIV (88% of 1321 with available viral load) were virally suppressed, and 673 HIV-negative men (40% of 1673) were circumcised in intervention communities. After accounting for baseline differences, at study end the proportion of people living with HIV who were diagnosed was significantly higher in intervention communities (absolute increase of 9% to 93%) compared with standard-of-care communities (absolute increase of 2% to 88%; prevalence ratio [PR] 1.08 [95% CI 1.02-1.14], p=0.032). Population levels of ART, viral suppression, and male circumcision increased from baseline in both groups, with greater increases in intervention communities (ART PR 1.12 [95% CI 1.07-1.17], p=0.018; viral suppression 1.13 [1.09-1.17], p=0.017; male circumcision 1.26 [1.17-1.35], p=0.029). INTERPRETATION: It is possible to achieve very high population levels of HIV testing and treatment in a high-prevalence setting. Maintaining these coverage levels over the next decade could substantially reduce HIV transmission and potentially eliminate the epidemic in these areas. FUNDING: US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. |
National Public Health Institute Legal Framework: A tool to build public health capacity
Rosenfeld EL , Binder S , Brush CA , Whitney EAS , Jarvis D , Seib K , Verani AR , Flores MA , Menon AN . Health Secur 2020 18 S43-s52 As countries face public health emergencies, building public health capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to threats is a priority. In recent years, national public health institutes (NPHIs) have emerged to play a critical role in strengthening public health systems and to accelerate and achieve implementation of the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). NPHIs are science-based government institutions that provide national leadership and expertise for the country's efforts to protect and improve health. Providing a Legal Framework for a National Public Health Institute is a recently released Africa CDC publication intended to support NPHI development throughout Africa. Here we present a legal mapping analysis of sampled legal domains for 5 countries, using the "Menu of Considerations for an NPHI Legal Framework." The analysis delineates the types of legal authorities countries may use to establish or enhance NPHIs and demonstrates how legal mapping can be used to review legal instruments for NPHIs. It also demonstrates variability among legal approaches countries take to establish and enable public health functions for NPHIs. This article examines how the legal framework and menu of considerations can help countries understand the nuances around creating and implementing the laws that will govern their organizations and how countries can better engage stakeholders to identify or address potential areas for opportunity where law may be used as a tool to strengthen public health infrastructure. |
Cost-effectiveness of reflex laboratory-based cryptococcal antigen screening for the prevention and treatment of cryptococcal meningitis in Botswana
Tenforde MW , Muthoga C , Callaghan A , Ponetshego P , Ngidi J , Mine M , Jordan A , Chiller T , Larson BA , Jarvis JN . Wellcome Open Res 2019 4 144 Background: Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening for antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naive adults with advanced HIV/AIDS can reduce the incidence of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) and all-cause mortality. We modeled the cost-effectiveness of laboratory-based "reflex" CrAg screening for ART-naive CrAg-positive patients with CD4<100 cells/microL (those currently targeted in guidelines) and ART-experienced CrAg-positive patients with CD4<100 cells/microL (who make up an increasingly large proportion of individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS). Methods: A decision analytic model was developed to evaluate CrAg screening and treatment based on local CD4 count and CrAg prevalence data, and realistic assumptions regarding programmatic implementation of the CrAg screening intervention. We modeled the number of CrAg tests performed, the number of CrAg positives stratified by prior ART experience, the proportion of patients started on pre-emptive antifungal treatment, and the number of incident CM cases and CM-related deaths. Screening and treatment costs were evaluated, and cost per death or disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted estimated. Results: We estimated that of 650,000 samples undergoing CD4 testing annually in Botswana, 16,364 would have a CD4<100 cells/microL and receive a CrAg test, with 70% of patients ART-experienced at the time of screening. Under base model assumptions, CrAg screening and pre-emptive treatment restricted to ART-naive patients with a CD4<100 cells/microL prevented 20% (39/196) of CM-related deaths in patients undergoing CD4 testing at a cost of US$2 per DALY averted. Expansion of preemptive treatment to include ART-experienced patients with a CD4<100 cells/microL resulted in 55 additional deaths averted (a total of 48% [94/196]) and was cost-saving compared to no screening. Findings were robust across a range of model assumptions. Conclusions: Reflex laboratory-based CrAg screening for patients with CD4<100 cells/microL is a cost-effective strategy in Botswana, even in the context of a relatively low proportion of advanced HIV/AIDS in the overall HIV-infected population, the majority of whom are ART-experienced. |
Biochemical verification of tobacco use and abstinence: 2019 update
Benowitz NL , Bernert JT , Foulds J , Hecht SS , Jacob P , Jarvis MJ , Joseph A , Oncken C , Piper ME . Nicotine Tob Res 2019 22 (7) 1086-1097 BACKGROUND: The changing prevalence and patterns of tobacco use, the advent of novel nicotine delivery devices, and the development of new biomarkers prompted an update of the 2002 Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) report on whether and how to apply biomarker verification for tobacco use and abstinence. METHODS: The SRNT Treatment Research Network convened a group of investigators with expertise in tobacco biomarkers to update the recommendations of the 2002 SNRT Biochemical Verification Report. RESULTS: Biochemical verification of tobacco use and abstinence increases scientific rigor and is recommended in clinical trials of smoking cessation, when feasible. Sources, appropriate biospecimens, cutpoints, time of detection windows and analytic methods for carbon monoxide, cotinine (including over the counter tests), total nicotine equivalents, minor tobacco alkaloids, and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol are reviewed, as well as biochemical approaches to distinguishing cigarette smoking from use of electronic nicotine delivery devices (ENDS). CONCLUSIONS: Recommendations are provided for whether and how to use biochemical verification of tobacco use and abstinence. Guidelines are provided on which biomarkers to use, which biospecimens to use, optimal cutpoints, time windows to detection, and methodology for biochemical verifications. Use of combinations of biomarkers is recommended for assessment of ENDS use. IMPLICATIONS: Biochemical verification increases scientific rigor, but there are drawbacks that need to be assessed to determine whether the benefits of biochemical verification outweigh the costs, including the cost of the assays, the feasibility of sample collection, the ability to draw clear conclusions based on the duration of abstinence, and the variability of the assay within the study population. This paper provides updated recommendations from the 2002 SRNT report on whether and how to use biochemical markers in determining tobacco use and abstinence. |
Comparison of knowledge of HIV status and treatment coverage between non-citizens and citizens: Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP)
Marukutira T , Block L , Alwano MG , Behel S , Jarvis JN , Chakalisa U , Powis K , Novitsky V , Bapati W , Wang H , Ussery F , Lebelonyane R , Mills LA , Moore J , Bachanas P . PLoS One 2019 14 (8) e0221629 INTRODUCTION: Non-citizens often face barriers to HIV care and treatment. Quantifying knowledge of positive HIV status and antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage among non-citizens in a high HIV-prevalence country like Botswana that is close to achieving UNAIDS "90-90-90" targets may expose important gaps in achieving universal HIV testing and treatment. METHODS: The Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP) is a pair-matched cluster-randomized trial evaluating the impact of prevention interventions on HIV incidence in 30 rural or peri-urban communities. Community case finding and HIV testing were conducted in home and mobile venues in 15 intervention communities from October 2013-September 2017. In this secondary analysis, we compared HIV positivity, knowledge of positive HIV-status, and ART status among all citizens and non-citizens assessed at intake in the intervention communities. RESULTS: HIV status was assessed in 57,556 residents in the intervention communities; 4% (n = 2,463) were non-citizens. Five communities accounted for 81% of the total non-citizens assessed. A lower proportion of non-citizens were HIV-positive (15%; n = 369) compared to citizens (21%; n = 11,416) [p = 0.026]; however, a larger proportion of non-citizens did not know their HIV-positive status prior to BCPP testing (75%) as compared to citizens (15%) [p = 0.003]. Among residents with knowledge of their HIV-positive status before BCPP, 79% of the non-citizens (72/91) were on ART compared to 86% (8,267/9,652) of citizens (p = 0.137). CONCLUSIONS: Although non-citizens were less likely to know their HIV-positive status compared to citizens, there were no differences in treatment uptake among non-citizens and citizens who knew their status. Designing interventions for non-citizens that provide HIV testing and treatment services commensurate to that of citizens as well as targeting communities with the largest number of non-citizens may help close a meaningful gap in the HIV care cascade and ensure ethical treatment for all HIV-positive persons. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01965470 (Botswana Combination Prevention Project). |
Leave no one behind: response to new evidence and guidelines for the management of cryptococcal meningitis in low-income and middle-income countries
Loyse A , Burry J , Cohn J , Ford N , Chiller T , Ribeiro I , Koulla-Shiro S , Mghamba J , Ramadhani A , Nyirenda R , Aliyu SH , Wilson D , Le T , Oladele R , Lesikari S , Muzoora C , Kalata N , Temfack E , Mapoure Y , Sini V , Chanda D , Shimwela M , Lakhi S , Ngoma J , Gondwe-Chunda L , Perfect C , Shroufi A , Andrieux-Meyer I , Chan A , Schutz C , Hosseinipour M , Van der Horst C , Klausner JD , Boulware DR , Heyderman R , Lalloo D , Day J , Jarvis JN , Rodrigues M , Jaffar S , Denning D , Migone C , Doherty M , Lortholary O , Dromer F , Stack M , Molloy SF , Bicanic T , van Oosterhout J , Mwaba P , Kanyama C , Kouanfack C , Mfinanga S , Govender N , Harrison TS . Lancet Infect Dis 2018 19 (4) e143-e147 In 2018, WHO issued guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention, and management of HIV-related cryptococcal disease. Two strategies are recommended to reduce the high mortality associated with HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs): optimised combination therapies for confirmed meningitis cases and cryptococcal antigen screening programmes for ambulatory people living with HIV who access care. WHO's preferred therapy for the treatment of HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis in LMICs is 1 week of amphotericin B plus flucytosine, and the alternative therapy is 2 weeks of fluconazole plus flucytosine. In the ACTA trial, 1-week (short course) amphotericin B plus flucytosine resulted in a 10-week mortality of 24% (95% CI -16 to 32) and 2 weeks of fluconazole and flucytosine resulted in a 10-week mortality of 35% (95% CI -29 to 41). However, with widely used fluconazole monotherapy, mortality because of HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis is approximately 70% in many African LMIC settings. Therefore, the potential to transform the management of HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis in resource-limited settings is substantial. Sustainable access to essential medicines, including flucytosine and amphotericin B, in LMICs is paramount and the focus of this Personal View. |
High cryptococcal antigen titers in blood are predictive of subclinical cryptococcal meningitis among human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients
Wake RM , Britz E , Sriruttan C , Rukasha I , Omar T , Spencer DC , Nel JS , Mashamaite S , Adelekan A , Chiller TM , Jarvis JN , Harrison TS , Govender NP . Clin Infect Dis 2018 66 (5) 686-692 Background: High mortality rates among asymptomatic cryptococcal antigen (CrAg)-positive patients identified through CrAg screening, despite preemptive fluconazole treatment, may be due to undiagnosed cryptococcal meningitis. Methods: Symptoms were reviewed in CrAg-positive patients identified by screening 19233 individuals with human immunodeficiency virus infection and CD4 cell counts <100/microL at 17 clinics and 3 hospitals in Johannesburg from September 2012 until September 2015, and at 2 hospitals until June 2016. Cerebrospinal fluid samples from 90 of 254 asymptomatic patients (35%) and 78 of 173 (45%) with headache only were analyzed for cryptococcal meningitis, considered present if Cryptococcus was identified by means of India ink microscopy, culture, or CrAg test. CrAg titers were determined with stored blood samples from 62 of these patients. The associations between blood CrAg titer, concurrent cryptococcal meningitis, and mortality rate were assessed. Results: Cryptococcal meningitis was confirmed in 34% (95% confidence interval, 25%-43%; 31 of 90) of asymptomatic CrAg-positive patients and 90% (81%-96%; 70 of 78) with headache only. Blood CrAg titer was significantly associated with concurrent cryptococcal meningitis in asymptomatic patients (P < .001) and patients with headache only (P = .003). The optimal titer for predicting cryptococcal meningitis was >160 (sensitivity, 88.2%; specificity, 82.1%); the odds ratio for concurrent cryptococcal meningitis was 34.5 (95% confidence interval, 8.3-143.1; P < .001). Conclusions: About a third of asymptomatic CrAg-positive patients have concurrent cryptococcal meningitis. More effective clinical assessment strategies and antifungal regimens are required for CrAg-positive patients, including investigation for cryptococcal meningitis irrespective of symptoms. Where it is not possible to perform lumbar punctures in all CrAg-positive patients, blood CrAg titers should be used to target those most at risk of cryptococcal meningitis. |
CD4 cell count threshold for cryptococcal antigen screening of HIV-infected individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Ford N , Shubber Z , Jarvis JN , Chiller T , Greene G , Migone C , Vitoria M , Doherty M , Meintjes G . Clin Infect Dis 2018 66 S152-s159 Background: Current guidelines recommend screening all people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) who have a CD4 count </=100 cells/microL for cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) to identify those patients who could benefit from preemptive fluconazole treatment prior to the onset of meningitis. We conducted a systematic review to assess the prevalence of CrAg positivity at different CD4 cell counts. Methods: We searched 4 databases and abstracts from 3 conferences up to 1 September 2017 for studies reporting prevalence of CrAg positivity according to CD4 cell count strata. Prevalence estimates were pooled using random effects models. Results: Sixty studies met our inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of cryptococcal antigenemia was 6.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7%-7.3%; 54 studies) among patients with CD4 count </=100 cells/microL and 2.0% (95% CI, 1.2%-2.7%; 21 studies) among patients with CD4 count 101-200 cells/microL. Twenty-one studies provided sufficient information to compare CrAg prevalence per strata; overall, 18.6% (95% CI, 15.4%-22.2%) of the CrAg-positive cases identified at </=200 cells/microL (n = 11823) were identified among individuals with a CD4 count 101-200 cells/microL. CrAg prevalence was higher among inpatients (9.8% [95% CI, 4.0%-15.5%]) compared with outpatients (6.3% [95% CI, 5.3%-7.4%]). Conclusions: The findings of this review support current recommendations to screen all PLHIV who have a CD4 count </=100 cells/microL for CrAg and suggest that screening may be considered at CD4 cell count </=200 cells/microL. |
A tale of two countries: progress towards UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets in Botswana and Australia
Marukutira T , Stoove M , Lockman S , Mills LA , Gaolathe T , Lebelonyane R , Jarvis JN , Kelly SL , Wilson DP , Luchters S , Crowe SM , Hellard M . J Int AIDS Soc 2018 21 (3) UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets and Fast-Track commitments are presented as precursors to ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030, through effecting a 90% reduction in new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths from 2010 levels (HIV epidemic control). Botswana, a low to middle-income country with the third-highest HIV prevalence, and Australia, a low-prevalence high-income country with an epidemic concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), have made significant strides towards achieving the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets. These two countries provide lessons for different epidemic settings. This paper discusses the lessons that can be drawn from Botswana and Australia with respect to their success in HIV testing, treatment, viral suppression and other HIV prevention strategies for HIV epidemic control. Botswana and Australia are on target to achieving the 90-90-90 targets for HIV epidemic control, made possible by comprehensive HIV testing and treatment programmes in the two countries. As of 2015, 70% of all people assumed to be living with HIV had viral suppression in Botswana and Australia. However, HIV incidence remains above one per cent in the general population in Botswana and in MSM in Australia. The two countries have demonstrated that rapid HIV testing that is accessible and targeted at key and vulnerable populations is required in order to continue identifying new HIV infections. All citizens living with HIV in both countries are eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral load monitoring through government-funded programmes. Notwithstanding their success in reducing HIV transmission to date, programmes in both countries must continue to be supported at current levels to maintain epidemic suppression. Scaled HIV testing, linkage to care, universal ART, monitoring patients on treatment over and above strengthened HIV prevention strategies (e.g. male circumcision and pre-exposure prophylaxis) will all continue to require funding. The progress that Botswana and Australia have made towards meeting the 90-90-90 targets is commendable. However, in order to reduce HIV incidence significantly towards 2030, there is a need for sustained HIV testing, linkage to care and high treatment coverage. Botswana and Australia provide useful lessons for developing countries with generalized epidemics and high-income countries with concentrated epidemics. |
Using predictive evaluation to design, evaluate, and improve training for polio volunteers
Traicoff DA , Basarab D , Ehrhardt DT , Brown S , Celaya M , Jarvis D , Howze EH . Pedagogy Health Promot 2018 4 (1) 35-42 Background: Predictive Evaluation (PE) uses a four-step process to predict results then designs and evaluates a training intervention accordingly. In 2012, the Sustainable Management Development Program (SMDP) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention used PE to train Stop Transmission of Polio (STOP) program volunteers. Methods: Stakeholders defined specific beliefs and practices that volunteers should demonstrate. These predictions and adult learning practices were used to design a curriculum to train four cohorts. At the end of each workshop, volunteers completed a beliefs survey and wrote goals for intended actions. The goals were analyzed for acceptability based on four PE criteria. The percentage of acceptable goals and the beliefs survey results were used to define the quality of the workshop. A postassignment adoption evaluation was conducted for two cohorts, using an online survey and telephone or in-person structured interviews. The results were compared with the end of workshop findings. Results: The percentage of acceptable goals across the four cohorts ranged from 49% to 85%. In the adoption evaluation of two cohorts, 88% and 94% of respondents reported achieving or making significant progress toward their goal. A comparison of beliefs survey responses across the four cohorts indicated consistencies in beliefs that aligned with stakeholders' predictions. Conclusions: Goal statements that participants write at the end of a workshop provide data to evaluate training quality. Beliefs surveys surface attitudes that could help or hinder workplace performance. The PE approach provides an innovative framework for health worker training and evaluation that emphasizes performance. |
Cryptococcal meningitis: A neglected NTD?
Molloy SF , Chiller T , Greene GS , Burry J , Govender NP , Kanyama C , Mfinanga S , Lesikari S , Mapoure YN , Kouanfack C , Sini V , Temfack E , Boulware DR , Dromer F , Denning DW , Day J , Stone NRH , Bicanic T , Jarvis JN , Lortholary O , Harrison TS , Jaffar S , Loyse A . PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017 11 (6) e0005575 Although HIV/AIDS has been anything but neglected over the last decade, opportunistic infections (OIs) are increasingly overlooked as large-scale donors shift their focus from acute care to prevention and earlier antiretroviral treatment (ART) initiation. Of these OIs, cryptococcal meningitis, a deadly invasive fungal infection, continues to affect hundreds of thousands of HIV patients with advanced disease each year and is responsible for an estimated 15%–20% of all AIDS-related deaths [1, 2]. Yet cryptococcal meningitis ranks amongst the most poorly funded “neglected” diseases in the world, receiving 0.2% of available relevant research and development (R&D) funding, according to Policy Cures’ 2016 Global Funding of Innovation for Neglected Diseases (G-Finder) Report [3, 4]. | Although cryptococcal meningitis is not formally recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) or PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases (PLOS NTDs) as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), it is listed in the G-Finder report, as it disproportionately affects people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with market failure evident for existing essential antifungal medicines and an urgent need for new, effective, and less toxic medicines. PLOS NTDs defines NTDs as a “group of poverty-promoting chronic infectious diseases, which primarily occur in rural areas and poor urban areas of LMICs” [5] and according to the WHO, NTDs are “a proxy for poverty and disadvantage”, have “an important impact on morbidity and mortality”, and are relatively “neglected by research” [6]. Although the greatest burden of cryptococcal disease is undoubtedly related to HIV, we demonstrate herein that cryptococcal meningitis meets both the WHO and PLOS NTDs definitions of an NTD, as the disease (1) disproportionately affects populations in poverty and causes substantial morbidity and mortality, (2) primarily affects populations living in tropical and subtropical areas, (3) is immediately amenable to broad control, elimination, or eradication, and (4) is neglected by research [7]. |
Global burden of disease of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: An updated analysis
Rajasingham R , Smith RM , Park BJ , Jarvis JN , Govender NP , Chiller TM , Denning DW , Loyse A , Boulware DR . Lancet Infect Dis 2017 17 (8) 873-881 BACKGROUND: Cryptococcus is the most common cause of meningitis in adults living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. Global burden estimates are crucial to guide prevention strategies and to determine treatment needs, and we aimed to provide an updated estimate of global incidence of HIV-associated cryptococcal disease. METHODS: We used 2014 Joint UN Programme on HIV and AIDS estimates of adults (aged >15 years) with HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage. Estimates of CD4 less than 100 cells per muL, virological failure incidence, and loss to follow-up were from published multinational cohorts in low-income and middle-income countries. We calculated those at risk for cryptococcal infection, specifically those with CD4 less than 100 cells/muL not on ART, and those with CD4 less than 100 cells per muL on ART but lost to follow-up or with virological failure. Cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence by country was derived from 46 studies globally. Based on cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence in each country and region, we estimated the annual numbers of people who are developing and dying from cryptococcal meningitis. FINDINGS: We estimated an average global cryptococcal antigenaemia prevalence of 6.0% (95% CI 5.8-6.2) among people with a CD4 cell count of less than 100 cells per muL, with 278 000 (95% CI 195 500-340 600) people positive for cryptococcal antigen globally and 223 100 (95% CI 150 600-282 400) incident cases of cryptococcal meningitis globally in 2014. Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for 73% of the estimated cryptococcal meningitis cases in 2014 (162 500 cases [95% CI 113 600-193 900]). Annual global deaths from cryptococcal meningitis were estimated at 181 100 (95% CI 119 400-234 300), with 135 900 (75%; [95% CI 93 900-163 900]) deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. Globally, cryptococcal meningitis was responsible for 15% of AIDS-related deaths (95% CI 10-19). INTERPRETATION: Our analysis highlights the substantial ongoing burden of HIV-associated cryptococcal disease, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Cryptococcal meningitis is a metric of HIV treatment programme failure; timely HIV testing and rapid linkage to care remain an urgent priority. |
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