AIDS And Behavior[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Low SARS-CoV-2 Positivity in a Large, Diverse US-Based Study of Persons Affected by HIV.
Siminski S, Karalius B, Huo Y … +13 more , Malee K, Smith R, Yao TJ, Kacanek D, Powis KM, Patel K, Barr EA, Tassiopoulos K, McFarland EJ, Chadwick EG, Deygoo N, Jacobson DL, Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41874901 · Full text
There are limited data on SARS-CoV-2 testing practices and positivity among children and adults affected by HIV. The Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study enrolls children, youth, and adults with perinatally-acquired HIV (PHIV...
There are limited data on SARS-CoV-2 testing practices and positivity among children and adults affected by HIV. The Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study enrolls children, youth, and adults with perinatally-acquired HIV (PHIV), non-perinatally-acquired HIV (NPHIV), perinatal HIV exposure but uninfected (PHEU), and infants/children with PHEU across the United States and Puerto Rico. A Health Status Survey was developed and administered from April 2020 to November 2021 to assess cumulative incidence (%) of self-reported (1) SARS-CoV-2 testing uptake and results by HIV status, age, and pandemic period; (2) moderate and severe respiratory illness; and (3) hospitalization. At least one survey was completed for 2,289 participants (PHIV = 444, NPHIV = 644, PHEU = 1201) through November 2021; 62% identified as Black and 33% as Hispanic. Participants' ages (years) ranged from 18-42 in PHIV, 19-57 in NPHIV, and < 1-28 in PHEU. Among PHIV, NPHIV, and PHEU, respectively, 43%, 35%, and 16% reported SARS-CoV-2 testing; of these, 18%, 16%, and 11% testing positive. The proportion tested was similar by race, Hispanic ethnicity, education, and income. Overall, 4% (87/2289) were hospitalized for any illness. 8% (174/2289) reported a respiratory illness "worse than the common cold," of whom 44% (76/174) reported SARS-CoV-2 testing, 49% (37/76) testing positive, and 13% (23/174) were hospitalized. The cumulative incidence of both SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe COVID-19 disease as of November 2021 was lower than expected among persons affected by HIV. Testing access, uptake, and mitigation strategies in this population may explain these findings and inform strategies to prevent acquisition of respiratory viruses.Trial Registration Not applicable; this is not a clinical trial.
Impact of Legal Perceptions and Disclosure on Willingness to Undergo HIV Antiretroviral Resistance Testing Among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Brief Report.
Neighbors CE, Sanchez T, Jose S … +8 more , Geller G, Edwards OW, Hannah M, Agostini J, Bollinger J, Henry LM, Sugarman J, Weinfurt K
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41874900 · Full text
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) criminalization laws may discourage engagement in care. American Men's Internet Survey participants were randomized to disclosure, in which automatic public health reporting of antiretr...
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) criminalization laws may discourage engagement in care. American Men's Internet Survey participants were randomized to disclosure, in which automatic public health reporting of antiretroviral resistance testing (ARVRT) was explained upfront, or non-disclosure, in which it was revealed later. Among 4,750 participants, 64.4% were unsure whether their state had an HIV criminalization law. ARVRT willingness was greater with non-disclosure (OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.41-2.71) and most pronounced among those believing no law existed (OR = 4.00, 95% CI: 1.10-14.54), with an interaction between legal perception and disclosure condition (χ² (2) = 7.14, p = 0.028).
Structural and Social Drivers of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Literacy Disparities Among Men who have Sex with Men in China: A PrEP Care Cascade Analysis.
Ni M, Lin H, Mo PK … +3 more , Chang C, Li J, Cao W
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41870662 · Publisher ↗
Despite the proven efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, uptake among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China remains low. Guided by the PrEP care cascade framework, we conceptualized PrEP lite...
Despite the proven efficacy of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention, uptake among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China remains low. Guided by the PrEP care cascade framework, we conceptualized PrEP literacy as a social practice shaped by structural and community dynamics, encompassing four dimensions: essential knowledge, eligibility self-assessment, access to medication, and adherence to follow-up care. We examine how social support, community norms, and structural barriers intersect to shape PrEP literacy disparities. A cross-sectional study was conducted in partnership with 20 community-based organizations (CBOs) across 20 Chinese cities (December 2023). We surveyed 1,400 MSM with an electronic questionnaire assessing demographics, sexual behaviors, PrEP-related norms, social support, and PrEP literacy using a validated 14-item scale aligned with the cascade framework. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with PrEP literacy, adjusting for sociodemographic confounders. Participants exhibited stark disparities across PrEP literacy dimensions. Eligibility assessment proficiency was the lowest, with widespread misperceptions about clinical indications. Social-structural factors significantly predicted PrEP literacy: MSM reporting stronger PrEP-supportive norms (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.05, p < 0.001) and social support (AOR = 1.03, p < 0.001) had higher odds of adequate literacy. PrEP literacy gaps among Chinese MSM reflect structural inequities in health education and community-level misperceptions about eligibility. Interventions must address social-structural barriers through norm-driven, community-led strategies -peer navigation programs to reframe eligibility awareness and partnerships with CBOs to decentralize PrEP access. Policymakers should integrate PrEP literacy into national HIV prevention frameworks by leveraging China's existing CBO infrastructure.
A Case-Control Study of Virologic Failure Among People Living with HIV Enrolled in a NYC-Based Medicaid Special Needs Plan.
Kohrt E, Cavanaugh R, Dionne B … +2 more , Brennan-Ing M, Olivieri-Mui B
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41863726 · Publisher ↗
Engagement in HIV care is essential for viral suppression, and care coordination programs have shown improved retention and adherence. In New York Medicaid HIV Special Needs Plans (SNP), health-homes provide enhanced car...
Engagement in HIV care is essential for viral suppression, and care coordination programs have shown improved retention and adherence. In New York Medicaid HIV Special Needs Plans (SNP), health-homes provide enhanced care coordination for people with HIV (PWH) at risk of non-adherence; however, evidence of their impact on virologic outcomes is limited. Using a matched case-control design and 2016-2018 data from a New York City Medicaid HIV SNP, this study examined associations between health-homes and virologic failure. Cases had virologic failure, defined as two consecutive viral loads > 200 copies/mL. Controls matched 1:1 on age (18+), race, and second viral load date, had no virologic failure. Conditional logistic regression examined virologic failure and health-home use duration, Social Deprivation Index (SDI), gender identity, HIV-infection stage, SNP enrollment, comorbidities, and polypharmacy. There were 2,566 PWH (62% male, mean age 42.9 years, mean SDI 92.3). Virologic failure was associated with HIV Stage III (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.61-2.49), substance use disorder (OR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.68-2.58), and < 6 months of health-home use (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.27-3.42). The association attenuated with 6 + months of health-home use (reference=none; OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.77-1.25). Polypharmacy (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.59-0.89) and mental health diagnoses (OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.59-0.94) had lower odds of virologic failure. Although further research is needed to clarify the roles of polypharmacy and mental health care, sustained health-home use may reduce disparities in virologic failure among PWH at high risk of falling out of care.
The Gender Non-affirmation from Sexual Partners Scale: Psychometric Evaluation and Correlates of a Brief Stigma Scale in a Sample Transgender and Gender Diverse Community Health Center Patients.
Tarantino M, Radix AE, Harris A … +4 more , Esquivel BC, Guerra A, Mayer KH, Reisner SL
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843257 · Publisher ↗
This study evaluated the psychometric performance and correlates of a 4-item GNSP scale among transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse (TGD) adults. Data were collected in 2019-2020 via an electronic, self-reported cro...
This study evaluated the psychometric performance and correlates of a 4-item GNSP scale among transgender, nonbinary, and gender diverse (TGD) adults. Data were collected in 2019-2020 via an electronic, self-reported cross-sectional survey of 2192 TGD adults accessing two U.S. LGBTQ+ community health centers. Participants reporting sex within the past 6 months (60.7%, n = 1463) were asked the 4-item GNSP scale. Analyses were internal consistency reliability (α), confirmatory factor analysis, and a multivariable logistic regression model of GNSP scale correlates (adjusted odds ratios [AOR], 95% confidence intervals [95% CI]). Mean age was 27 years (range = 18-71 years), 18.7% were people of color, and 33.6% nonbinary. 42.7% reported past 6-month GNSP. The GNSP scale showed good reliability (α = 0.78) loaded onto a single factor (eigenvalue = 2.45; variance explained = 48.7%). Higher odds of reporting GNSP included nonbinary identity (AOR = 1.63; 95% CI 1.51, 1.70), more past 6-month sexual partners (AOR = 1.19; 95% CI 1.17-1.21), a cisgender woman sexual partner (AOR = 1.51; 95% CI 1.42-1.61), a high school degree or less (AOR = 1.43; 95% CI 1.28-1.59), elevated alcohol use (AOR = 1.55; 95% CI 1.46-1.65), severe psychological distress (AOR = 1.80; 95% CI 1.68-1.92), penile sex with a condom (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI 1.59-1.90) or without a condom (AOR = 1.38; 95% CI 1.28-1.49), and current PrEP use (AOR = 1.42; 95% CI 1.25-1.61). Lower odds of reporting GNSP included older age vs. ages 18-24 (AORs range 0.65-0.75), transfeminine identity (AOR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.80-0.94), uninsured (AOR = 0.56; 95% CI 0.48-0.60), and in committed relationships (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI 0.33-0.40) or ethically non-monogamous relationships (AOR = 0.38; 95% CI 0.35-0.43). Gender non-affirmation from sexual partners was highly prevalent and may represent important intervention targets for sexual and mental health. The GNSP scale demonstrated good psychometric properties and is a promising tool for future TGD research.
HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Awareness among Individuals in Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Buttram ME, Ellis MS, Burgos JFC
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843256 · Publisher ↗
This study examined PrEP awareness among HIV-negative individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD; n = 179), and associations with demographic characteristics, sexual and injection behaviors, and treatment moda...
This study examined PrEP awareness among HIV-negative individuals in treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD; n = 179), and associations with demographic characteristics, sexual and injection behaviors, and treatment modalities. Overall, 48% of participants reported PrEP awareness. Bivariate logistic regression showed that, compared to others, individuals who were older, African American/Black, and in methadone treatment less frequently reported PrEP awareness (p≤.018), while those who reported sex with a person who injects drugs, inpatient/day treatment, and self-help group attendance more frequently reported PrEP awareness (p≤.041). Increased education and outreach to PrEP eligible individuals in methadone and other opioid treatment programs appears warranted.
Perspectives on Analytical Treatment Interruptions and Prospects of an HIV Cure Amongst People Living with HIV and Healthcare Providers in Singapore.
Choy CY, Hao Y, Toh MPHS … +14 more , Archuleta S, Teh YE, Chong EYS, Lee PH, Young BE, Kumar PA, Ferdous Z, Tan ZH, Le T, Chia CPT, Hamid LB, Lee SKL, Lee A, Wong CS
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843255 · Publisher ↗
Singapore has yet to conduct an HIV cure trial, and analytical treatment interruption (ATI) studies may face community scepticism. This study explores the perspectives of people living with HIV and healthcare providers i...
Singapore has yet to conduct an HIV cure trial, and analytical treatment interruption (ATI) studies may face community scepticism. This study explores the perspectives of people living with HIV and healthcare providers in Singapore on participating in functional cure research involving ATI. Participants were recruited from four HIV care facilities through study advertisements. Healthcare providers were recruited via email. A self-administered survey gathered demographic data, views on ATI and HIV cure, acceptability of ATI, and tolerance for CD4 and viral load changes during ATI. Descriptive, univariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify barriers and motivators to trial participation. Among 200 people living with HIV, 116 (58%) expressed willingness to participate in a cure trial; 84 (42%) did not. Most (94.5%, 189/200) had never joined an HIV clinical study. No significant differences in age, gender, sexuality, or HIV duration were observed between the groups. Factors positively associated with willingness to participate included tertiary education (aOR 2.71, 95% CI 1.13-6.81), altruistic motivations (aOR 1.98, 95% CI 1.52-2.66), and financial compensation (aOR 3.55, 95% CI 1.36-9.88). Lower tolerance for viral load increases or CD4 declines was linked to reduced willingness (aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.67-0.88). Monitoring frequency, self-testing, and home visits had no significant effect. Healthcare providers were more likely to recommend participation in cure trials if they demonstrated high tolerance for HIV viral load increases (p = 0.044), showed stronger interest in cure research (p = 0.009) and expressed greater acceptance of a functional HIV cure (p = 0.014). Willingness to participate in ATI cure trials is higher among individuals with more education, altruistic intent, and less concern about virologic or immunologic changes. Financial compensation is a strong motivating factor but should not play undue inducement in influencing decision to participate in an ATI cure trial. Community engagement and education are crucial to building support for future HIV cure research.
A Decade of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Cascade Monitoring: National Trends and Persistent Gaps in PrEP Use Among Gay, Bisexual and Queer Men and Non-Binary People in Australia.
MacGibbon J, Storer D, Broady TR … +14 more , Calabrese SK, Smith AKJ, Chan C, Kolstee J, Yu S, Ellard J, Murphy DA, Gray J, Mao L, Watson L, Costello J, de Wit J, Bavinton BR, Holt M
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41843254 · Publisher ↗
We have monitored Australia's maturing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) program for the past decade, providing a unique view of long-term implementation among gay, bisexual and queer men and non-binary people. Using t...
We have monitored Australia's maturing HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) program for the past decade, providing a unique view of long-term implementation among gay, bisexual and queer men and non-binary people. Using two national surveys, the GBQ + Community Periodic Surveys (GCPS, 2014-2023, N = 78,378) and the PrEPARE Project (2017-2023, N = 5,278), we constructed and iteratively refined cascades to monitor PrEP suitability, awareness, use, and service engagement. The PrEPARE cascade also included willingness, provider engagement and psychosexual benefits of PrEP. By 2023, both cascades showed near-universal PrEP awareness among PrEP-suitable participants. In the GCPS cascade, PrEP use increased from < 1% of PrEP-suitable participants in 2014 to 30% in 2023, while in PrEPARE it increased from 21% in 2017 to 46% in 2023. However, in 2023, 29% of GCPS participants who were suitable and aware were not using PrEP, and 14% of PrEPARE participants who were PrEP-suitable and aware were unwilling to use it. PrEP use was lower among younger participants, bisexual and queer-identified participants compared with gay-identified participants, those outside metropolitan areas, and migrants without government-subsidised healthcare. Australia is among the few countries with repeated PrEP cascades that have been revised as implementation has evolved. We show that Australia has achieved near-universal PrEP awareness but highlight persistent inequities in uptake. Our findings demonstrate the value of long-term cascade monitoring and the need to address financial, geographic, and risk-perception barriers to close remaining gaps.
Behavioral and Structural Interventions for PrEP Adherence Among Young Female Sex Workers from Western Kenya.
Agot K, Reed DM, Lamb MR … +11 more , Omollo D, Franks J, Moraa J, Mantell JE, Zerbe A, Okello T, Lahuerta M, Wiesner L, Naitore D, Ochillo M, El-Sadr WM
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41832915 · Publisher ↗
HIV incidence is high among young female sex workers (YFSW) in Kenya. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is recommended for at-risk populations, but its effectiveness requires consistent access and adhere...
HIV incidence is high among young female sex workers (YFSW) in Kenya. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention is recommended for at-risk populations, but its effectiveness requires consistent access and adherence. The IPrEP study compared the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of two adherence support interventions on PrEP adherence among YFSW in Kisumu, Kenya. Study follow-up coincided with national restrictions on travel and gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted an unblinded, randomized-controlled trial enrolling 18-24 year-old HIV-negative YFSW with no current or recent PrEP use (NCT03988387, registered: June 17, 2019). Participants were initiated on oral PrEP and randomized to either peer-delivered adherence support (PS), or SMS reminders and resource transfer (RRT) to support adherence for 12 months. PrEP was provided without these interventions for an additional 12 months to assess the durability of their effect. Intention-to-treat analysis of effectiveness was conducted at 12, 18, and 24 months using plasma tenofovir levels and self-report. Of the 289 YFSW screened, 200 were enrolled (100 per arm). Median age was 22 years, 46% reported condom use at last sex, and 26 male clients averaged in the past month. At 12, 18, and 24 months, detectable levels of tenofovir in plasma were 3%, 1%, and 0% in the PS arm and 9%, 9%, and 1% in the RRT arm (p-value = 0.4). Perfect 7-day adherence was self-reported by 85%, 81% and 83%, and 86%, 87% and 76% in the PS and RRT arms at 12, 18 and 24 months, respectively. Two seroconversions occurred during follow-up: one at 12 months and one at 18 months of follow-up. In this population of YFSW, no difference in tenofovir levels by arm was noted. The very low levels of tenofovir in the plasma, in contrast to high self-reported adherence, may be due in part to perceived lower HIV risk resulting from decreased frequency of sex work during the COVID-19 period. Findings highlight the urgent need for long-acting PrEP for this population.
Factors Related To Improving the Quality of Cervical Cancer Screening for Women Living with HIV in La Romana, Dominican Republic: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.
Schnall R, Ozoria Ramirez S, Halpern M … +10 more , Kuhn L, Wright J, Sanchez E, Garcia A, Brin M, Martinez N, Michaels CL, Snyder C, Stonbraker S, Baez Caraballo P
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41831114 · Full text
Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death, especially among women living with HIV (WLH). This qualitative study explored barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening from the perspective o...
Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death, especially among women living with HIV (WLH). This qualitative study explored barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening from the perspective of healthcare providers and WLH at Clínica de Familia La Romana, a large primary care clinic that specializes in HIV in the Dominican Republic. Ten providers and 25 WLH participated in interviews, which were analyzed in Dedoose using inductive analysis guided by the Framework for Improving the Quality of Cancer Care. Three themes emerged: (1) continuity across stages of cancer care; (2) multilevel factors influencing clinical encounters and follow-up; and (3) organizational strategies to improve screening quality. Our findings explored needs for (1) treatment cascades that streamline sampling and results, (2) increased patient education efforts, and (3) improved linkage to treatment services.
Differentiating Exposure From Consequence: A Longitudinal Examination of Trauma and Posttraumatic Distress in a Public HIV Care Clinic.
Kirakosian N, Chen YO, Llabre MM … +3 more , Vasconcello H, Rodriguez A, Safren SA
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41831113 · Publisher ↗
Persons living with HIV (PLWH) are disproportionately exposed to traumatic events, which are associated with posttraumatic psychological distress and impaired HIV-related health outcomes (e.g., antiretroviral non-adheren...
Persons living with HIV (PLWH) are disproportionately exposed to traumatic events, which are associated with posttraumatic psychological distress and impaired HIV-related health outcomes (e.g., antiretroviral non-adherence, HIV viremia, lower CD4 count). Prior literature has not adequately differentiated the effects of trauma and posttraumatic distress on HIV-related health outcomes. This study examined longitudinal data of trauma exposure and posttraumatic psychological distress among PLWH. Participants were 255 PLWH in care at a public HIV clinic that completed baseline and one-year follow-up psychosocial assessments between April 2017 and May 2024. Assessments included measures of lifetime trauma exposure, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic distress, and antiretroviral adherence. HIV RNA viral load and CD4 count were extracted from medical records. Factor analysis was used to consider multifaceted posttraumatic responses. Path analysis was used to examine direct and indirect effects of trauma exposure and posttraumatic distress on HIV-related outcomes. Most participants endorsed lifetime trauma exposure (88.2%). Trauma exposure was associated with increased posttraumatic psychological distress (est.=0.281, p = 0.004). Psychological distress predicted lower antiretroviral adherence (est.=-0.070, p = 0.033), which was associated with higher log HIV RNA viral load (est.=-0.477, p < 0.001) and lower CD4 count (est.=84.754, p < 0.001). Controlling for distress, trauma exposure did not predict HIV-related health outcomes. Trauma exposure was highly prevalent and posttraumatic psychological distress predicted poorer HIV-related health outcomes at follow-up. These findings highlight the need for universal trauma-informed care and the utility of integrated psychological services for those impacted by posttraumatic distress within HIV treatment settings to improve HIV-related health outcomes.
Development and Validation of a Provider-Specific Anticipated Stigma Scale for People Who Inject Drugs.
Ivasiy R, Earnshaw VA, Huh J … +6 more , Cleland CM, Friedman SR, Schneider JA, Ompad D, Bluthenthal RN, Walters SM
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41831112 · Publisher ↗
Stigma in healthcare settings is a critical barrier to HIV prevention and treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID). While previous tools have measured anticipated stigma, few account for the intersectional and prov...
Stigma in healthcare settings is a critical barrier to HIV prevention and treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID). While previous tools have measured anticipated stigma, few account for the intersectional and provider-specific experiences of PWID-particularly from syringe service programs (SSPs). We developed and validated the Substance Use Anticipated Provider Stigma Scale (SU-APSS), a multidimensional instrument assessing anticipated stigma from four provider types: healthcare workers, substance use treatment staff, pharmacists, and SSP personnel. Data were drawn from a cross-sectional survey of 264 PWID who were 18 or older, HIV-negative, had injected drugs and used opioids within the past 30 days, and showed visible signs of recent injection. We conducted confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on responses from 218 participants to evaluate structural validity and used Cronbach's alpha to assess internal consistency. The CFA supported a four-factor structure with strong model fit indices (CFI = 0.97, RMSEA = 0.09 [0.07, 0.11], SRMR = 0.04). All items significantly loaded onto their respective factors (loadings: 0.62-1.06). Internal consistency was high across all subscales (α = 0.85-0.96) and for the overall scale (α = 0.87). Attribution analysis revealed drug use, physical appearance, and income level as the most common perceived reasons for anticipated stigma. The SU-APSS offers a practical tool for identifying provider-specific stigma, informing stigma-reduction interventions, and evaluating implementation strategies to improve HIV prevention and care engagement among PWID.
Understanding HIV Vaccine Misinformation and Vaccine Intentions Among Young Women in South Africa: Insights from an Online Survey.
Maughan-Brown B, Egbe TI, Bokolo S … +9 more , Rabin M, Chetty-Makkan C, Kornides M, Long L, Pascoe S, Penuela-Wermers S, van der Linden S, Thirumurthy H, Buttenheim AM
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41831111 · Publisher ↗
An effective HIV vaccine could significantly reduce HIV incidence, but demand for future HIV vaccines will be affected by misinformation. We conducted an online survey (March-April 2024) to identify the misinformation cl...
An effective HIV vaccine could significantly reduce HIV incidence, but demand for future HIV vaccines will be affected by misinformation. We conducted an online survey (March-April 2024) to identify the misinformation claims most likely to deter young women in South Africa (n = 188) from receiving an HIV vaccine. Participants rated HIV-vaccine misinformation as most concerning (i.e. would make them not want to get vaccinated) and least concerning (i.e. would not change a decision to get vaccinated). From 54 misinformation claims found in peer-reviewed and grey literature (e.g., reports), participants viewed two sets of 9 randomly chosen claims. Within each set, they selected the 3 most concerning and 3 least concerning claims. Claims were ranked according to their likelihood of being selected as most or least concerning. Misinformation claims that were rated as most concerning were about HIV vaccine safety, particularly those suggesting severe adverse health effects (e.g. the vaccine "will kill you", selected 85% of times viewed). Also rated as concerning were claims that the vaccine was created to harm certain populations (e.g., "designed to sterilise Black women", 60% selected); that the vaccine increases rape and pregnancies (51% selected); and gives you HIV (50% selected). The least concerning misinformation related to the themes of stigma, vaccine efficacy, and the availability of other HIV prevention options. Misinformation that the HIV vaccine causes harm, increases risky behaviour, and gives recipients HIV may have the greatest impact on vaccination intentions. Research is needed to design and test interventions that build resistance to such misinformation.
HIV Prevalence, Virological Suppression, and Consistent Condom Use Among Social Venue-Going Men in Zimbabwe: Insights from the 2022 Priorities for Local AIDS Control Efforts (PLACE) Surveys.
Maringwa G, Chabata ST, Machingura F … +16 more , Maguma J, Makamba M, Chinozvina T, Chikura S, Nyoni L, Mlambo M, Matsikire E, Mpofu A, Yekeye R, Madzima B, Mugurungi O, Rice B, Weir S, Hargreaves JR, Fearon E, Cowan FM
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41831110 · Publisher ↗
Men attending social venues face barriers to accessing HIV prevention and care services. These venues-such as bars, guesthouses, nightclubs, and transport hubs-facilitate new sexual partnerships but lack cohesive social...
Men attending social venues face barriers to accessing HIV prevention and care services. These venues-such as bars, guesthouses, nightclubs, and transport hubs-facilitate new sexual partnerships but lack cohesive social networks, making it challenging to design and implement effective HIV prevention strategies. Men who attend social venues are more likely to pay for sex, potentially increasing their risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV. However, data on how HIV-related behaviours and service engagement differ between men who do and do not pay for sex among those attending venues remain limited. This study examines whether men who pay for sex have higher rates of HIV prevalence, lower rates of virological suppression, and poor HIV-prevention-related behaviours compared to those who do not. Using the Priorities for Local AIDS Control Efforts (PLACE) methodology, we collected cross-sectional data from April to December 2022 across 190 venues in four cities and towns in Zimbabwe. Participants underwent finger-prick HIV testing; those testing positive provided dried blood spots (DBS) for viral load measurement. We also collected sexual behaviour data, including condom use. We applied survey weights and used weighted Poisson regression models with robust standard errors to investigate factors associated with HIV status, virological suppression, and condom use among venue-going men, treating paying for sex as the primary exposure variable. All reported percentages are weighted. Among venue-going 2,827 men, 984 (40.1%) reported paying for sex in the past 12 months, and 531 (15.1%) reported consistent condom use in the past month. Overall, HIV prevalence was 10.7%. Among men living with HIV, virological suppression was 67.9%. In adjusted analyses, there were no significant associations between paying for sex and HIV status (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 1.12, 95% CI: 0.64-1.94), self-reported consistent condom use in the past month (aPR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.57-1.34), or rates of virological suppression among men living with HIV (aPR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.71-1.34). Findings indicate substantial HIV risk and suboptimal prevention and treatment engagement among men frequenting social venues, irrespective of paying for sex. Therefore, targeted interventions are needed for both paying and non-paying men.
Women in the HIV Care Continuum: Assessing Re-linking Women to Care and Maintaining Viral Suppression Postpartum in Philadelphia from 2012 to 2023.
Nightingale KJ, Nassau T, Karaj A … +5 more , Holmes JH, Li Y, Momplaisir FM, Brady KA, Lowenthal ED
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41817846 · Publisher ↗
The purpose of this study was to describe the HIV care continuum postpartum in a cohort of postpartum women with HIV (WWH) in Philadelphia, and assess the impact of the City's perinatal case management (PCM) program on e...
The purpose of this study was to describe the HIV care continuum postpartum in a cohort of postpartum women with HIV (WWH) in Philadelphia, and assess the impact of the City's perinatal case management (PCM) program on engagement in the HIV care continuum. A cohort of 937 mothers who gave birth between 1/1/2012 and 12/31/2023 and who lived, gave birth, or received perinatal and pediatric care in Philadelphia, PA were enrolled. Using public health surveillance data, the impact of PCM use on engagement in care at 90 days postpartum, retention in care at 1-year postpartum, and viral suppression at 1-year postpartum was assessed using logistic regression with robust standard errors. Overall, 51.1%, 65.4%, and 42.0% of the population was engaged in care at 90 days, and retained in care and virally suppressed at 1-year, respectively. A larger percentage of PCM users than non-users were engaged in care at 90 days (56.4% versus 43.9%) and retained in care (73.2% versus 59.2%) and virally suppressed (48.2% versus 37.1%) at 1 year. After controlling for confounders, PCM use was significantly associated with increased engagement in care at 90 days (aOR = 1.403 [1.030-1.913]), retention in care at 1 year (aOR = 1.576 [1.163-2.136]), and viral suppression at 1 year (aOR = 1.412 [1.060-1.881]). Philadelphia's PCM program is effective in improving engagement in the HIV care continuum during the postpartum period. Other US cities, particularly those with high HIV prevalence, should consider adopting a similar city-funded PCM program for pregnant and postpartum WWH.
Relationship Status and Quality Associations with HIV Care Cascade Outcomes Among Sexual Minority Men Living with HIV in the US: Indications of a Dyadic Coping Paradox.
Hillesheim JR, Starks TJ
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41811596 · Publisher ↗
Dyadic coping among sexual minority men (SMM) has been a focus of HIV prevention research for decades, but few studies have examined relationship quality as a covariate of HIV care cascade outcomes (ART adherence and an...
Dyadic coping among sexual minority men (SMM) has been a focus of HIV prevention research for decades, but few studies have examined relationship quality as a covariate of HIV care cascade outcomes (ART adherence and an undetectable viral load (VL)). This study utilized a 5-category relationship status variable (single; non-monogamous, sero-discordant; non-monogamous, sero-concordant; monogamous, sero-discordant; monogamous, sero-concordant) to test the hypothesis that relationship quality would moderate associations between relationship status and HIV care outcomes. Adult SMM living with HIV (LWHIV) (n = 1389), recruited via social networking applications between January and December 2021, completed a cross-sectional, online survey. At average levels of relationship quality, only non-monogamous SMM with sero-discordant partners were more likely to be adherent to ART (OR = 3.064, p<.001) and have an undetectable VL (OR = 2.595, p<.001) compared to single SMM. Among non-monogamous SMM with sero-discordant partners, relationship quality was positively associated with ART adherence (OR = 1.065, p<.001) and having an undetectable VL (OR = 1.046, p=.003). Among monogamous SMM with sero-concordant partners, the effect of relationship quality on ART adherence (OR=0.855, p=.007) and having an undetectable VL (OR=0.909, p=.011) was significantly smaller compared to non-monogamous SMM with sero-discordant partners. Among non-monogamous SMM with sero-concordant partners, the effect of relationship quality on ART adherence (OR=0.956, p=.039) was also significantly smaller compared to non-monogamous SMM with sero-discordant partners. Results suggest non-monogamous SMM with sero-discordant partners in high-quality relationships may experience the greatest motivation to engage in HIV care. Messages enhancing motivation for care engagement to improve individual health for SMM LWHIV may augment treatment as prevention.
Alcohol Use, Risky Alcohol Use, and Associated Factors Among Adults Living with HIV in Urban Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Njiro BJ, Ngowi JE, Francis JM … +6 more , Bärnighausen T, Geldsetzer P, Fawzi WW, Bakari M, Sudfeld CR, Sunguya BF
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41806096 · Publisher ↗
Alcohol use and risky alcohol use are associated with health, social, and psychological complications and may interfere with HIV/AIDS treatment. This study assessed the prevalence and factors associated with alcohol use...
Alcohol use and risky alcohol use are associated with health, social, and psychological complications and may interfere with HIV/AIDS treatment. This study assessed the prevalence and factors associated with alcohol use and risky alcohol use among adults living with HIV in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. This cross-sectional study included data from 771 adults living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART) who were enrolled in a non-inferiority cluster randomized controlled trial. Alcohol use and risky drinking in the past 12 months were assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C) tool. Log-binomial regression models were applied to identify factors associated with alcohol use and risky alcohol use. Overall, 31.4% of participants reported current alcohol use (n = 242). Among these individuals, 45.5% (n = 110) engaged in risky alcohol use (14.2% among all participants). About a quarter (23.2%) were classified as engaging in heavy episodic drinking (HED). In multivariable models, older adults (RR = 0.27; 95%CI: 0.13-0.54) and males (RR = 0.68; 95%CI: 0.46-1.01) had a lower risk of risky alcohol use. Individuals who had disclosed their status to their partners were more likely to report risky alcohol use compared to those who had not disclosed (RR = 1.33; 95%CI:1.00-1.78). These findings indicate that alcohol use is common among adults living with HIV, with half of current drinkers engaging in risky consumption patterns, including HED. Risky alcohol use was more prevalent among younger adults and women. These results underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing risky alcohol use within primary HIV care settings, particularly for young adults and women.
Family-Based Discrimination, Non-disclosure of Sexual Orientation or Gender identity, and Initiation of Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Among Adolescents.
Marinho G, Leite BO, Zeballos D … +8 more , Soares F, Galvão NMS, Amorim LD, Seixas S, Greco D, Grangeiro A, Dourado I, Magno L
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801658 · Publisher ↗
This study analyzed the association between family-based discrimination and non-disclosure of sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI) and the initiation of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention amo...
This study analyzed the association between family-based discrimination and non-disclosure of sexual orientation or gender identity (SOGI) and the initiation of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and transgender women (ATGW). This analysis used baseline data from the PrEP1519 project. Latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to identify patterns of family-based discrimination and non-disclosure of SOGI using three categorical indicators. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted, and logistic regression models estimated the adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for the association between latent classes and PrEP initiation. The majority of the 1,309 participants identified as AMSM (91.4%) were aged 18-19 years (74.9%), were Black and Pardo or mixed race (72.1%), had enrolled in high school (71.9%), resided in São Paulo (49.6%), and lived with parents or other family members (81.9%). Overall, 79.5% of patients initiated oral PrEP. LCA identified three distinct profiles: (i) low discrimination (67.6%, n = 885), (ii) high discrimination (22.4%, n = 293), and (iii) no disclosure within the family context (10.0%, n = 131). Multivariate analysis revealed non-disclosure of SOGI within the family was significantly associated with lower odds of initiating oral PrEP (aOR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.33-0.78), whereas high levels of family discrimination were not significantly associated with oral PrEP initiation (aOR: 1.22; 95% CI: 0.84-1.76. Enhancing, structural interventions, stronger community support systems, and expanded access to alternative prevention options such as injectable PrEP may improve the initiation and adherence to HIV-prevention efforts among adolescents who experience family-related barriers to disclosure.
Community-Based Screening for HIV and Viral Hepatitis Using Dried Blood Spots in a Migrant Population in Spain: The HEPINMIGRA Study.
Llenas-García J, Navarro M, Ventero MP … +19 more , Juan Cuevas P, Rodríguez JC, Ramos-Rincon JM, López Amoros A, Lucas Dato A, Martínez López B, García López M, Reus S, Romero M, García Soriano I, Torres Penalva A, Torrús-Tendero D, García García J, Menchi Elanzi M, Peris J, Boix C, Tyshkovska I, Amador C, Wikman-Jorgensen P
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801657 · Publisher ↗
Migrant populations face a disproportionate risk of undiagnosed HIV and viral hepatitis, posing a major challenge to elimination goals. The HEPINMIGRA study evaluated the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of...
Migrant populations face a disproportionate risk of undiagnosed HIV and viral hepatitis, posing a major challenge to elimination goals. The HEPINMIGRA study evaluated the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of an integrated community-based screening program for migrants in Alicante, Spain. Between March 2024 and February 2025, nine outreach campaigns were conducted in community settings with the support of intercultural mediators. Screening was performed using finger-prick dried blood spots. Among 535 attendees, 529 migrants were screened (acceptance rate 98.9%). Participants had a median age of 39 years, 56.1% were male, and 77.9% were of African origin. Seroprevalence was 1.1% for HIV (95% CI: 0.4-2.3%), 0.6% for HCV (95% CI: 0.1-1.6%), and 4.5% for HBsAg (95% CI: 2.9-6.6%). Although most individuals with positive results were successfully contacted and linked to care, treatment initiation rates were low. Community-based DBS screening was highly feasible and effective for case detection, but major gaps were identified in linkage to care and treatment initiation.
Intimate Partner Violence Victimization and HIV PrEP Adherence Among Gay, Bisexual Men, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Ukraine.
Hong C, Lunchenkov N, Schmidt D … +3 more , Ustinov G, German E, Steinert JI
AIDS Behav · 2026 Mar · PMID 41801656 · Publisher ↗
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant barrier to HIV prevention service utilization, yet little is known about its impact on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence among gay, bisexual, and other men who hav...
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant barrier to HIV prevention service utilization, yet little is known about its impact on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) adherence among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). This study examines the association between IPV victimization and PrEP adherence using data from an online survey of 937 current PrEP users in Ukraine, conducted in early 2022, a few days before Russia's invasion. Participants reported on six types of IPV experienced in the past six months, physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse as well as partners' monitoring and controlling behaviors. Further, they self-reported their PrEP adherence and were asked to describe the reasons for missing PrEP medications through an open-ended question. Nearly 40% of respondents experienced at least one form of IPV, with sexual and emotional IPV being most common. Only 35.4% reported excellent or very good adherence to PrEP medication. Self-reported reasons for missed doses included COVID-19 restrictions, changes in sexual behavior, use of alternative HIV prevention methods, and health or psychological factors. In multivariable models adjusting for sociodemographic and behavioral factors, sexual IPV, monitoring, and controlling IPV were associated with higher PrEP adherence. The positive association may suggest that IPV survivors increase their PrEP adherence as a protective strategy against HIV infection. These findings highlight the importance of integrating trauma-informed IPV screening and support within PrEP programs and adopting flexible service models to sustain adherence, especially during social and political crises. Future longitudinal research should explore mechanisms linking IPV and PrEP adherence and develop structural interventions to better support this vulnerable population.
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