NRU :: Browsing by Author "Wawer, Maria J."

Browsing by Author "Wawer, Maria J."

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Adolescents, sexual behavior and HIV-1 in rural Rakai district, Uganda
(Aids, 1997) Konde-Lule, Joseph K.; Wawer, Maria J.; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Serwadda, David; Kelly, Robert; Kigongo, David
To describe the epidemiology of HIV-1 infection among adolescents aged 13–19 years, in rural Rakai district, Uganda. Annual enumeration and behavioral/serological survey of all consenting adolescents aged 13–19 years at recruitment, residing in 31 randomly selected community clusters. At baseline, of 909 adolescents present in study clusters, 824 (90.6%) provided interview data and serological samples. No adolescents aged 13–14 years were HIV-infected. Among those aged 15–19 years, 1.8% of men and 19.0% of women were HIV-positive. Among young women aged 15–19 years in marital/consensual union, 21.3% were HIV-positive; this rate did not differ significantly from the 29.1% prevalence in those reporting non-permanent relationships; prevalence was significantly lower in women reporting no current relationship (4.3%). After multivariate adjustment, female sex, age 17–19 years, residence in trading centers/trading villages and a history of sexually transmitted disease symptoms remained significantly associated with HIV infection. Seventy-nine per cent of adolescents provided a follow-up serological sample. No young men aged 13–14 years seroconverted during the study; in young women aged 13–14 years, HIV seroincidence was 0.6 per 100 person-years (PY) of observation. Among young men aged 15–19 years, there were 1.1 ± 0.6 seroconversions per 100 PY of observation prior to age 21 years; among women 15–19 years, the incidence rate was 3.9 ± 1.0 per 100 PY of observation prior to age 21 years. The mortality rate among HIV-positive adolescents aged 15–19 years, at 3.9 per 100 PY of observation, was 13-fold higher than that among the HIV-uninfected. By 1992, knowledge of sexual transmission was almost universal, the proportions reporting multiple partners had decreased and condom use had increased over baseline. Adolescents, and young women in particular, are vulnerable to HIV infection. Despite reported behavioral changes, HIV incidence rates remain substantial, and there is a need for innovative HIV preventive measures.
Age Differences in Sexual Partners and Risk of HIV-1 Infection in Rural Uganda
(JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 2003) Kelly, Robert J.; Gray, Ronald H.; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Serwadda, David; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Lutalo, Tom; Wawer, Maria J.
Gender differentials in HIV prevalence and incidence among adolescents and young adults have been observed in studies from Uganda (Fig. 1) (1–4) and other sub- Saharan Africa countries (5–7). Female adolescents are, on average, eight times more likely to be HIV infected than male adolescents. Biologic mechanisms such as immaturity of the reproductive tract in younger women may increase susceptibility to HIV acquisition, and social and cultural practices that promote early sexual activity among women may also be important. Another hypothesized factor is that young women are infected by having sex with older men, who may be more likely to be infected (8–10). This assumption is supported by comparison of age-adjusted HIV prevalence data (4,5,11) and mathematic modeling (12,13). Few empiric studies have examined the effect of age differences between partners on the risk of HIV infection in young women, however (2,14,15). We undertook observational analyses of the sexual behavior characteristics of adolescents in Rakai District, Uganda, to assess the extent to which the age
Age of male circumcision and risk of prevalent HIV infection in rural Uganda
(Aids, 1999) Kelly, Robert; Kiwanuka, Noah; Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Sewankambo, Nelson; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Li, Chuanjun; Konde-Lule, Joseph K.; Lutalo, Tom; Makumbi, Fred; Gray, Ronald H.
Epidemiological evidence suggests that male circumcision may reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and possibly HIV infection. Studies of STD clinic attenders have found that circumcised men are less likely to have gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, candidiasis, and genital ulcer disease (GUD) [1–3]. Age at circumcision has also been reported as a risk factor in penile cancer [4]. Ecological studies report geographic correlations between HIV seroprevalence and the proportion of uncircumcised men in African populations [5,6], but subsequent cross-sectional and prospective studies found an inconsistent association between male circumcision and HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection in men and women [7–9].
Association of Medical Male Circumcision and Antiretroviral Therapy Scale-up With Community HIV Incidence in Rakai,Uganda
(American Medical Association, 2016) Kong, Xiangrong; Kigozi, Godfrey; Ssekasanvu, Joseph; Nalugoda, Fred; Nakigozi, Gertrude; Ndyanabo, Anthony; Lutalo, Tom; Reynolds, Steven J.; Ssekubugu, Robert; Kagaayi, Joseph; Bugos, Eva; Chang, Larry W.; Nanlesta, Pilgrim; Mary, Grabowski; Berman, Amanda; Quinn, Thomas C.; Serwadda, David; Wawer, Maria J.; Gray, Ronald H.
Randomized trials have shown that medical male circumcision( MMC)reduces maleHIVacquisition by50% to 60%,1-3 and that early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces HIV transmission by more than90%in HIV-discordant couples.4Mathematical modeling suggests that these interventions could mitigate the HIV epidemic in sub- Saharan Africa,5-7 but there is limited empirical evidence for the population-level effects of these interventions on HIV incidence in real-world programs. MMC provides direct protection against male HIV acquisition by removing the foreskin, which is rich in HIV target cells.8-10 The potential effect ofMMCon population-level HIV incidence depends on this biological effect, the level ofMMC coverage, risk profiles ofmenacceptingMMC,and whether behavioral disinhibition occurs following circumcision.
Cell Phones, Sexual Behaviors and HIV Prevalence in Rakai, Uganda: A Cross Sectional Analysis of Longitudinal Data
(AIDS and Behavior, 2020) Nalugoda, Fred; Kreniske, Philip; Hofer, Sarah; Zhong, Xiaobo; Wei, Ying; Grilo, Stephanie A.; Chen, Ivy; D. Kigozi, Ssebaggala; Kigozi, Godfrey; Lutalo, Tom; Ssekubugu, Robert; Nakawooya, Hadijja; Kagaayi, Joseph; Chang, Larry W.; Wawer, Maria J.; Gray, Ronald H.; Wang, Qianshu; Santelli, John S.
Cell phones have increased communication and connection across the globe and particularly in sub-Saharan Africa—with potential consequences for the HIV epidemic. We examined the association among ownership of cell phones, sexual behaviors (number of sexual partners, alcohol use before sex, inconsistent condom use), and HIV prevalence. Data were from four rounds (2010–2016) of the Rakai Community Cohort Study (N = 58,275). Sexual behaviors and HIV prevalence were compared between people who owned a cell phone to people who did not own a cell phone. We stratified analysis by younger (15–24 years) and older (25+ years) age groups and by gender. Using logistic regression and after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, we found cell phone ownership was independently associated with increased odds of having two or more sexual partners in the past 12 months across age and gender groups (young men AOR 1.67, 95% CI 1.47–1.90; young women AOR 1.28 95% CI 1.08–1.53; older men AOR 1.54 95% CI 1.41–1.69; older women AOR 1.44 95% CI 1.26–1.65). Interestingly, young men who owned cell phones had decreased odds of using condoms inconsistently (AOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.57–0.75). For young women, cell phone ownership was associated with increased odds of using alcohol before sex (AOR 1.38 95% CI 1.17–1.63) and increased odds of inconsistent condom use (AOR 1.40, 95% 1.17–1.67). After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, only young women who owned cell phones had increased odds of being HIV positive (AOR 1.27 95% CI 1.07–1.50). This association was not mediated by sexual behaviors (Adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors AOR 1.24, 95% CI 1.05–1.46). While cell phone ownership appears to be associated with increased HIV risk for young women, we also see a potential opportunity for future cell phone-based health interventions.
Contextual Barriers and Motivators to Adult Male Medical Circumcision in Rakai, Uganda
(Qualitative health research, 2013) Ssekubugu, Robert; Leontsini, Elli; Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Kigozi, Godfrey; Kennedy, Caitlin E.; Nalugoda, Fred; Sekamwa, Richard; Wagman, Jennifer; Gray, Ronald H.
Medical male circumcision (MMC) is a central component of HIV prevention. In this study we examined barriers to and facilitators of MMC in Rakai, Uganda. Interviews and focus groups with MMC acceptors, decliners, and community members were collected and analyzed iteratively. Themes were developed based on immersion, repeated reading, sorting, and coding of data using grounded theory. Pain, medical complications, infertility, lack of empirical efficacy, waiting time before resumption of sex, and religion were identified as obstacles to MMC acceptance. Prevention and healing of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), access to HIV and other ancillary care, penile hygiene, and peer influence were key motivators. Voluntary counseling and testing for HIV, partner influence, and sexual potency were both barriers and motivators. Individual and societal factors, such as pain and religion, might slow MMC scale up. Health benefits, such as HIV/STI prevention and penile hygiene, are essential in motivating men to accept MMC.
Determinants of HIV-1 Load in Subjects with Early and Later HIV Infections, in a General-Population Cohort of Rakai, Uganda
(Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2004) Gray, Ronald H.; Li, X.; Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Lutalo, Tom; Kiwanuka, Noah; Kigozi, Godfrey; Nalugoda, Fred; Meehan, Mary P.; Quinn, Thomas C.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 RNA loads were determined for 256 subjects with early (incident) HIV infection and for 1293 subjects with later (prevalent) HIV infection, in a Ugandan cohort. Prevalent infections were classified as latent (0–1 symptoms) and midstage disease ( 2 symptoms), and deaths were ascribed to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Among subjects with incident HIV infection, HIV load did not differ by sex, but, among subjects with prevalent HIV infection, it was higher in males than in females. HIV load was highest in subjects (25–29 years old) with incident HIV infection but increased with age in subjects with prevalent HIV infection. Viremia was higher after serconversion than in latency and increased with more advanced disease. Viremia was increased with genital ulcer disease (GUD) in both subjects with incident infection and in those with prevalent infection, and with herpes simplex virus type 2 seropositivity in subjects with incident HIV infection. GUD was consistently associated with higher HIV loads in subjects with incident and those with prevalent HIV infection, suggesting that treatment of GUD might reduce HIV viremia.
Dynamics of Spread of HIV-I Infection in a Rural District of Uganda
(British Medical Journal, 1991) Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Musgrave, Stanley D; Konde-Lule, Joseph K; Musagara, Maako; Sewankambo, Nelson K.
To define the geographical distribution of HIV infection and the community characteristics associated with HIV prevalence in a rural population of Uganda. Seroprevalence survey and interviews of the population aged 13 years and older in 21 randomly selected clusters. Rural population of Rakai district, south west Uganda. 1292 adults, of whom 594 men and 698 women gave a blood sample and answered the questionnaire. HIV status determined by ELISA and western blotting in relation to community characteristics. The weighted seroprevalence of HIV for the district was 12.6% with prevalence by cluster varying from 1.2% to 52.8%. Seroprevalence was highest in main road trading centres (men 26%, women 47%), intermediate in rural trading villages on secondary roads (men 22%, women 29%), and lowest in rural agricultural villages (men 8%, women 9%). For both men and women, multiple regression showed a strong negative association between cluster seroprevalence and the proportion of the population employed in agriculture (beta = -0.677 for men, -0.807 for women). Among women, cluster seroprevalence increased with a higher proportion of the population reporting multiple sex partners (beta = 0.814), external travel (beta = 0.579), and injections (beta = 0.483). Community characteristics, particularly the proportion of the population in agriculture, are associated with HIV prevalence and can be used for targeting interventions. The seroprevalences of HIV suggest spread of infection from main road trading centres, through intermediate trading villages, to rural agricultural villages.
Effectiveness of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention in Rakai, Uganda
(Clinical Infectious Diseases, 2021) Loevinsohn, Gideon; Kigozi, Godfrey; Kagaayi, Joseph; Wawer, Maria J.; Nalugoda, Fred; Chang, Larry W.; Quinn, Thomas C.; Serwadda, David; Reynolds, Steven J.; Nelson, Lisa; Mills, Lisa; Alamo, Stella; Nakigozi, Gertrude; Kabuye, Geoffrey; Ssekubugu, Robert; Tobian, Aaron A. R.; Gray, Ronald H.; Grabowski, M. Kathryn
The efficacy of voluntary male medical circumcision (VMMC) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention in men was demonstrated in 3 randomized trials. This led to the adoption of VMMC as an integral component of the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) combination HIV prevention program in sub-Saharan Africa. However, evidence on the individual-level effectiveness of VMMC programs in real-world, programmatic settings is limited. A cohort of initially uncircumcised, non-Muslim, HIV-uninfected men in the Rakai Community Cohort Study in Uganda was followed between 2009 and 2016 during VMMC scale-up. Self-reported VMMC status was collected and HIV tests performed at surveys conducted every 18 months. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to estimate the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of HIV acquisition in newly circumcised vs uncircumcised men.
The effects of male circumcision on female partners’ genital tract symptoms and vaginal infections in a randomized trial in Rakai, Uganda
(American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 2009) Gray, Ronald H.; Kigozi, Godfrey; Serwadda, David; Makumbi, Fredrick; Nalugoda, Fred; Watya, Stephen; Moulton, Laurence; Cheng, Michael Z.; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Kiwanuka, Noah; Sempijja, Victor; Lutalo, Tom; Kagayii, Joseph; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Ridzon, Renée; Bacon, Melanie; Wawer, Maria J.
The objective of the study was to assess effects of male circumcision on female genital symptoms and vaginal infections. STUDY DESIGN: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative men enrolled in a trial were randomized to immediate or delayed circumcision (control arm). Genital symptoms, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and trichomonas were assessed in HIV-negative wives of married participants. Adjusted prevalence risk ratios (adjPRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were assessed by multivariable log-binomial regression, intent-to-treat analyses. RESULTS: A total of 783 wives of control and 825 wives of intervention arm men were comparable at enrollment. BV at enrollment was higher in control (38.3%) than intervention arm spouses (30.5%, P .001). At 1 year follow-up, intervention arm wives reported lower rates of genital ulceration (adjPRR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63-0.97), but there were no differences in vaginal discharge or dysuria. The risk of trichomonas was reduced in intervention arm wives (adjPRR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.05- 0.98), as were the risks of any BV (adjPRR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.38-0.94) and severe BV (prevalence risk ratios, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.24-0.64). CONCLUSION: Male circumcision reduces the risk of ulceration, trichomonas, and BV in female partners.
Evaluation of the Safety and Efficiency of the Dorsal Slit and Sleeve Methods of Male Circumcision Provided by Physicians and Clinical Officers in Rakai, Uganda
(BJU international, 2012) Buwembo, Dennis; Musoke, Richard; Kigozi, Godfrey; Sempijja, Victor; Serwadda, David; Makumbi, Frederick; Watya, Stephen; Namuguzi, Dan; Nalugoda, Fred; Kiwanuka, Noah; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Mangen, Fred Wabwire; Lutalo, Tom; Kiggundu, Valerian; Anyokorit, Margaret; Nkale, James; Kighoma, Nehemia; Wawer, Maria J.; Gray, Ronald H.
To assess safety and efficiency of the dorsal slit and sleeve male circumcision (MC) procedures performed by physicians and clinical officers.We evaluated the time required for surgery and moderate / severe adverse events (AEs), among circumcisions by trained physicians and clinical officers using sleeve and dorsal slit methods. Univariate and multivariate regression with robust variance was used to assess factors associated with time for surgery (linear regression) and adverse events (logistic regression). Six physicians and 8 clinical officers conducted 1934 and 3218 MCs, respectively. There were 2471 dorsal slit and 2681 sleeve procedures. The mean duration of surgery was 33 minutes for newly trained providers and decreased to ~20 minutes after ~100 circumcisions. The adjusted mean duration of surgery for dorsal slit was significantly shorter than that for sleeve method (Δ −2.8 minutes, p- <0.001). The duration of surgery was longer for clinical officers than physicians performing the sleeve procedure, but not the dorsal slit procedure. Crude AEs rates were 0.6% for dorsal slit and 1.4% with the sleeve method (p=0.006). However, there were no significant differences after multivariate adjustment. Use of cautery significantly reduced time needed for surgery (Δ − 4.0 minutes, p =0.008), but was associated with higher rates of AEs (adjusted odds ratio 2.13, 95%CI 1.26–3.61, p=0.005).The dorsal slit resection method of male circumcision is faster and safer than sleeve resection, and can be safely performed by non-physicians. However, use of cautery may be inadvisable in this setting.
Experiences of Sexual Coercion Among Adolescent Women: Qualitative Findings From Rakai District, Uganda
(Journal of interpersonal violence, 2008) Wagman, Jennifer; Baumgartner, Joy Noel; Geary, Cindy Waszak; Nakyanjo, Neema; Ddaaki, William George; Serwadda, David; Gray, Ron; Nalugoda, Fred Kakaire; Wawer, Maria J.
Limited data from low-income countries are available on the continuum of coercive experiences, the contexts in which they occur, and how adolescent women perceive and respond to coercion. This article presents results from focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with pregnant and never pregnant sexually active female adolescents, aged 15 to 17, residing in Rakai District, Uganda, to examine sexual coercion, its context, and the links between coercion and adolescent reproductive health outcomes, including early sexual debut and pregnancy. Informants described multiple forms of sexual coercion, including coerced or forced intercourse, unwanted sexual touching, verbal harassment, and transactional sex. Sexual coercion was perceived to be a normal part of intimate relationships; in particular, informants felt that a woman’s lack of decision-making authority, including choices on sexual encounters, was implicit to marriage. This information may help violence prevention programs develop a range of strategies for addressing sexual coercion among adolescents.
Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence and Correlates of Anti-HEV IgG Antibodies in the Rakai District, Uganda
(The Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2018) Boon, Denali; Redd, Andrew D.; Laeyendecker, Oliver; Engle, Ronald E.; Nguyen, Hanh; Ocama, Ponsiano; Boaz, Iga; Ndyanabo, Anthony; Kiggundu, Valerian; Reynolds, Steven J.; Gray, Ronald H.; Wawer, Maria J.; Purcell, Robert H.; Kirk, Gregory D.; Quinn, Thomas C.; Stabinski, Lara
A cross-sectional study was conducted of 500 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected adults frequency matched on age, sex, and community to 500 HIV-uninfected individuals in the Rakai District, Uganda to evaluate seroprevalence of anti-hepatitis E virus (HEV) IgG antibodies. HEV seroprevalence was 47%, and 1 HIV-infected individual was actively infected with a genotype 3 virus. Using modified Poisson regression, male sex (prevalence ratios [PR] = 1.247; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.071–1.450) and chronic hepatitis B virus infection (PR = 1.377; 95% CI, 1.090–1.738) were associated with HEV seroprevalence. HIV infection status (PR = 0.973; 95% CI, 0.852–1.111) was not associated with HEV seroprevalence. These data suggest there is a large burden of prior exposure to HEV in rural Uganda.
Heterogeneity of the HIV epidemic in agrarian, trading, and fi shing communities in Rakai, Uganda: an observational epidemiological study
(The lancet HIV, 2016) Chang, Larry W.; Grabowsk, Mary K.; Ssekubugu, Robert; Nalugoda, Fred; Kigozi, Godfrey; Nantume, Betty; Lessler, Justin; Moore, Sean M.; Quinn, Thomas C.; Reynolds, Steven J.; Gray, Ronald H.; Serwadda, David; Wawer, Maria J.
Understanding the extent to which HIV burden diff ers across communities and the drivers of lo cal disparities is crucial for an eff ective and targeted HIV response. We assessed community-level variations in HIV prevalence, risk factors, and treatment and prevention service uptake in Rakai, Uganda. Methods The Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) is an open, population-based cohort of people aged 15–49 years in 40 communities. Participants are HIV tested and interviewed to obtain sociodemographic, behavioural, and health information. RCCS data from Aug 10, 2011, to May 30, 2013, were used to classify communities as agrarian (n=27), trading (n=9), or lakeside fi shing sites (n=4). We mapped HIV prevalence with Bayesian methods, and characterised variability across and within community classifi cations. We also assessed diff erences in HIV risk factors and uptake of antiretroviral therapy and male circumcision between community types. Findings 17 119 individuals were included, 9215 (54%) of whom were female. 9931 participants resided in agrarian, 3318 in trading, and 3870 in fi shing communities. Median HIV prevalence was higher in fi shing communities (42%, range 38–43) than in trading (17%, 11–21) and agrarian communities (14%, 9–26). Antiretroviral therapy use was signifi cantly lower in both men and women in fi shing communities than in trading (age-adjusted prevalence risk ratio in men 0·64, 95% CI 0·44–0·97; women 0·53, 0·42–0·66) and agrarian communities (men 0·55, 0·42–0·72; women 0·65, 0·54–0·79), as was circumcision coverage among men (vs trading 0·48, 0·42–0·55; vs agrarian 0·64, 0·56–0·72). Self-reported risk behaviours were signifi cantly higher in men than in women and in fi shing communities than in other community types. Interpretation Substantial heterogeneity in HIV prevalence, risk factors, and service uptake in Rakai, Uganda, emphasises the need for local surveillance and the design of targeted HIV responses. High HIV burden, risk behaviours, and low use of combination HIV prevention in fi shing communities make these populations a priority for intervention. Funding National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the National Institute of Child Health and Development, and the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases Division of Intramural Research, National Institutes of Health; the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; and the Johns Hopkins University Center for AIDS Research.
HIV Infection in Uncircumcised Men is Associated with Altered CD8 T-cell Function but Normal CD4 T-cell Numbers in the Foreskin
(The Journal of infectious diseases, 2014) Prodger, Jessica L.; Hirbod, Taha; Gray, Ronald; Kigozi, Godfrey; Nalugoda, Fred; Galiwango, Ronald; Reynolds, Steven J.; Huibner, Sanja; Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Kaul, Rupert; Rakai, Genital Immunology Research Group
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected (HIV+) men are more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections, and may be superinfected by HIV. We hypothesized that HIV induces immune alterations in the foreskin that may impact the subsequent acquisition/clearance of genital coinfections. Methods. Foreskin tissue and blood were obtained from 70 HIV-uninfected and 20 HIV+ men undergoing circumcision. T cells were characterized by flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction. Results. There was substantial influx of CD8 T-cells into the foreskins of HIV+ men (108.8 vs 23.1 cells/mm2; P < .001); but foreskin CD4 T-cell density was unchanged (43.0 vs 33.7/mm2; P = .67), despite substantial blood depletion (409.0 vs 877.8 cells/μL; P < .001). While frequencies of foreskin C-C chemokine receptor type 5+ (CCR5+) T cells, T regulatory cells, and T-helper 17 cells were unaltered in HIV+ men, CD8 T-cell production of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) was decreased. HIV-specific CD8 T cells were present in the foreskins of HIV+ men, although their frequency and function was reduced compared to the blood. Conclusions. Foreskin CD4 T-cell density and CCR5 expression were not reduced during HIV infection, perhaps explaining susceptibility to HIV superinfection. Foreskin CD8 T-cell density was increased, but decreased production of TNFα may enhance susceptibility to genital coinfections in HIV+ men.
HIV viral suppression and geospatial patterns of HIV antiretroviral therapy treatment facility use in Rakai, Uganda
(AIDS (London, England), 2018) Billioux, Veena G.; Grabowski, Mary K.; Ssekasanvu, Joseph; Reynolds, Steven J.; Berman, Amanda; Bazaale, Jeremiah; Patel, Eshan U.; Bugos, Eva; Ndyanabo, Anthony; Kisakye, Alice; Kagaayi, Joseph; Gray, Ronald H.; Nakigozi, Gertrude; Ssekubugu, Robert; Nalugoda, Fred; Serwadda, David; Wawer, Maria J.; Chang, Larry W.
To assess geospatial patterns of HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment facility use and whether they were impacted by viral load (VL) suppression. Methods—We extracted data on the location and type of care services utilized by HIV-positive persons accessing ART between February 2015 and September 2016 from the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) in Uganda. The distance from RCCS households to facilities offering ART was calculated using the open street map road network. Modified Poisson regression was used to identify predictors of distance traveled and, for those traveling beyond their nearest facility, the probability of accessing services from a tertiary care facility. Results—1554 HIV-positive participants were identified, of whom 68% had initiated ART. The median distance from households to the nearest ART facility was 3.10 km (Interquartile range, IQR, 1.65–5.05), but the median distance traveled was 5.26 km (IQR, 3.00–10.03, p<0.001) and 57% of individuals travelled further than their nearest facility for ART. Those with higher education and wealth were more likely to travel further. 93% of persons on ART were virally suppressed, and there was no difference in the distance traveled to an ART facility between those with suppressed and unsuppressed VLs (5.26 km vs. 5.27 km, p=0.650). Conclusions—Distance traveled to HIV clinics was increased with higher socioeconomic status, suggesting that wealthier individuals exercise greater choice. However, distance traveled did not vary by those who were or were not virally suppressed.
Hormonal contraceptive use and HIV-1 infection in a population-based cohort in Rakai, Uganda
(Aids, 2003) Kiddugavu, Mohammed; Makumbi, Fred; Wawer, Maria J.; Serwadda, David; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Lutalo, Tom; Meehan, Mary; Gray, Ronald H.
Hormonal contraceptives have been associated with increased risk of HIV acquisition. Methods: The association between hormonal contraception use and HIV acquisition was assessed in a rural community-based cohort in Rakai District, Uganda. A group of 5117 sexually active HIV-negative women were surveyed at 10 month intervals between 1994 and 1999. Information on demographic and sociobehavioral characteristics, use of hormonal contraception (pill and injectable methods), condoms and the number of sexual partners was obtained by home-based interview. HIV incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) associated with hormonal contraception were estimated by multivariate Poisson regression after adjustment for age, condom use, number of sexual partners, marital status, education and history of genital ulcer disease. Results: At one or more interviews, 16.6% of women reported use of hormonal contraceptives and 23.0% reported condom use. HIV incidence was 2.3/100 personyears in hormonal contraceptive users compared with 1.5/100 person-years in non-hormonal contraceptive users (unadjusted IRR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.00–2.33). After multivariate adjustment, the IRR associated with hormonal contraceptives was reduced to 0.94 (95% CI, 0.53–1.64). The adjusted IRR was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.48–2.56) with oral contraceptive use and 0.84 (95%CI, 0.41–1.72) with injectable methods. Conclusion: Use of hormonal contraception is not associated with HIV acquisition after adjustment for behavioral confounding
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Acquisition Associated with Genital Ulcer Disease and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection: A Nested Case-Control Study in Rakai, Uganda
(The Journal of infectious diseases, 2003) Serwadda, David; Gray, Ronald H.; Sewankambo, Nelson K.; Wabwire-Mangen, Fred; Cheng, Michael Z.; Quinn, Thomas C.; Lutalo, Tom; Kiwanuka, Noah; Kigozi, Godfrey; Nalugoda, Fred; Meehan, Mary P.; Morrow, Rhoda A.; Wawer, Maria J.
To assess the timing of symptomatic genital ulcer disease (GUD) relative to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroconversion, we studied 248 case subjects who underwent HIV seroconversion and 496 HIV-negative control subjects, at 3 interview visits conducted at 10-month intervals: visit 1, before HIV acquisition; visit 2, after seroconversion; and visit 3, 10 months after detection of seroconversion. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), for HIV acquisition, were estimated by logistic regression. HIV load was measured by RNA–polymerase chain reaction, and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) serologic testing used HerpeSelect EIA with Western blot confirmation. The OR of HSV-2 seropositivity associated with HIV acquisition was 1.7 (95% CI, 1.2–2.4). Prevalence of GUD was increased among case subjects, at visits 2 (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.9– 5.3) and 3 (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1–3.9). HIV load was increased in HSV-2–seropositive case subjects, compared with that in HSV-2–seronegative subjects, at 5 (Pp.04) and 15 (Pp.02) months after seroconversion. HIV acquisition is associated with HSV-2 seropositivity, and GUD is increased after seroconversion. HIV load is increased in HSV-2–positive subjects who seroconverted, suggesting a role for treatment of HSV-2 infection in HSV-2–seropositive, dually infected individuals.
Human immunodeficiency virus care cascade among sub-populations in Rakai, Uganda: an observational study
(Journal of the International AIDS Society, 2017) Billioux, Veena G.; Chang, Larry W.; Reynolds, Steven J.; Nakigozi, Gertrude; Ssekasanvu, Joseph; Grabowski, Mary K.; Ssekubugu, Robert; Nalugoda, Fred; Kigozi, Godfrey; Kagaayi, Joseph; Serwadda, David; Gray, Ronald H.; Wawer, Maria J.
To assess progress towards the UNAIDS 90–90–90 initiative targets, we examined the HIV care cascade in the population-based Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) in rural Uganda and examined differences between sub-groups. Methods: Self-reports and clinical records were used to assess the proportion achieving each stage in the cascade. Statistical inference based on a 2 test for categorical variables and modified Poisson regression were used to estimate prevalence risk ratios (PRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for enrolment into care and initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART). Results: From September 2013 through December 2015, 3,666 HIV-positive participants were identified in the RCCS. As of December 2015, 98% had received HIV Counseling and Testing (HCT), 74% were enrolled in HIV care, and 63% had initiated ART of whom 92% were virally suppressed after 12 months on ART. Engagement in care was lower among men than women (enrolment in care: adjPRR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77–0.91; ART initiation: adjPRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.69–0.82), persons aged 15–24 compared to those aged 30–39 (enrolment: adjPRR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63–0.82; ART: adjPRR 0.69, 95%CI 0.60–0.80), unmarried persons (enrolment: adjPRR 0.84, 95% CI 0.71–0.99; ART adjPRR 0.80, 95% CI 0.66–0.95), and new in-migrants (enrolment: adjPRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.67–0.83; ART: adjPRR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67–0.85). This cohort achieved 98–65–92 towards the UNAIDS “90–90–90” targets with an estimated 58% of the entire HIV-positive RCCS population virally suppressed. Conclusions: This cohort achieved over 90% in both HCT and viral suppression among ART users, but only 65% in initiating ART, likely due to both an ART eligibility criterion of <500 CD4 cells/mL and suboptimal entry into care among men, younger individuals, and in-migrants. Interventions are needed to promote enrolment in HIV care, particular for hard-to-reach subpopulations.
Hypertension and Socioeconomic Status in South Central Uganda: A Population-Based Cohort Study
(Global Heart, 2022) Mustapha, Aishat; Ssekasanvu, Joseph; Chen, Ivy; Kathryn Grabowski, Mary; Ssekubugu, Robert; Kigozi, Godfrey; Reynolds, Steven J.; Gray, Ronald H.; Wawer, Maria J.; Kagaayi, Joseph; Chang, Larry W.; Post, Wendy S.
Limited studies exploring the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on hypertension in Africa suggest a positive association between higher SES and hypertension. The economic development in sub-Saharan African countries has led to changes in SES and associated changes in lifestyle, diet, and physical activity, which may affect the relationship between hypertension and SES differently compared with higher income countries. This cross-sectional study from a large populationbased cohort, the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS), examines SES, hypertension prevalence, and associated risk factors in the rural Rakai Region in south-central Uganda. Methods: Adults aged 30–49 years residing in 41 RCCS fishing, trading, and agrarian communities, were surveyed with biometric data obtained between 2016 and 2018. The primary outcome was hypertension (systolic blood pressure (BP) ≥ 130 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥ 80 mmHg). Modified Poisson regression assessed the adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) of hypertension associated with SES; body mass index (BMI) was explored as a potential mediator. Results: Among 9,654 adults, 20.8% had hypertension (males 21.2%; females 20.4 %). Participants with hypertension were older (39.0 ± 6.0 vs. 37.8 ± 5.0; p < 0.001). Higher SES was associated with overweight or obese BMI categories (p < 0.001). In the multivariable model, hypertension was associated with the highest SES category (aPR 1.23; confidence interval 1.09–1.38; p = 0.001), older age, male sex, alcohol use, and living in fishing communities and inversely associated with smoking and positive HIV serostatus. When BMI was included in the model, there was no association between SES and hypertension (aPR 1.02; CI 0.90–1.15, p = 0.76). Conclusion: Hypertension is common in rural Uganda among individuals with higher SES and appears to be mediated by BMI. Targeted interventions could focus on lifestyle modification among highest-risk groups to optimize public health impact.

Browsing by Author "Wawer, Maria J."

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