Scientific Program

Conference Series Ltd invites all the participants across the globe to attend 5th International Conference on HIV/AIDS, STDs and STIs Las Vegas, Nevada, USA (Venue: Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel).

Day 1 :

Keynote Forum

Loran J. Thompson

The Wellness Edge, USA

Keynote: The effects of alcohol and other drugs on HIV, AIDS STD's and STI's

Time : 09:00-09:30

Conference Series STD AIDS 2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Loran J. Thompson photo
Biography:

Loran J Thompson is a Corporate Trainer, National Speaker and Health Coach with a long history of working with the HIV/AIDS community since 1990. She worked with UCSD on a research project on the effects of drugs and alcohol and how it increases the risk for getting or transmitting HIV/AIDS. She also worked with the San Diego County of Health and Human Services HIV/AIDS branch and trained the facilitators of the GLI’s (Group Level Intervention) across San Diego County to insure quality groups for the participants. She also completed a final report of the findings for the county.

Abstract:

Substance abuse can lead to risky behaviors that increase the chances of getting or transmitting HIV infection. It can also weaken the immune system and damage the liver. A weaker immune system has a harder time fighting off infections, as well as HIV-related infections. Also many people with HIV take medicine every day. Substance abuse can make it hard to focus and stick to a daily medicine regimen. Skipping medicines allows HIV to multiply and damage the immune system. Drug interactions between HIV medicines and recreational drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or heroin can also increase the risk of dangerous side effects. In this session, you’ll learn about: The effects of substance abuse on the body, how it increases the chances of getting or transmitting HIV, what you can do if you use drugs or alcohol and simple, practical tools and strategies to take care of yourself.

Conference Series STD AIDS 2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker John A. Schetz photo
Biography:

Schetz is a Professor of Pharmacology, Neuroscience and Medical Education with a penchant for advancing knowledge and addressing societal needs of relevance to medicine. His translational research efforts focus on elucidating mechanisms of drug action, and discovery and development of innovative agents for preventing or treating neurological and psychiatric conditions. His research has been published in reputed journals and featured nationally and internationally in print, radio and televised media reports. His collaborative team pioneered a molecular mechanistic understanding of adverse neuropsychiatric events associated with efavirenz when taken as prescribed, and its attractiveness as a recreational drug when smoked. 

Abstract:

Efavirenz has been a mainstay of HAART since its introduction in 1998. Though recently downgraded by DHHS from a first-line to an alternative treatment due to risk of neuropsychiatric adverse events (NPAE), both WHO and South African guidelines continue to recommend efavirenz as the preferred NNRTI for HAART in adults, and generic forms are becoming available. Yet, only recently has significant progress been made towards a molecular mechanistic appreciation of efavirenz-mediated NPAEs and its attractiveness as a recreational drug. Contributing factors are rapid brain accumulation and a narrow therapeutic window. Receptor pharmacology studies indicate that within a concentration range relevant to its brain exposure, efavirenz disrupts dopaminergic, serotoninergic, cholinergic, and GABAergic systems. Hence, the combined effects on these neurotransmitter systems is likely to be responsible for some of efavirenz’s NPAEs, such as sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, dizziness, headaches and memory impairments. Specifically, a number of CNS off-target interactions for efavirenz have been identified, including with the 5-HT2A, 5-HT2C, 5-HT3, 5-HT6, M1, M3 and GABA-A receptors, DAT, SERT, and VMAT2 transporters, and MAO-A. In rats trained to discriminate LSD from saline, efavirenz partially substitutes for LSD and this substitution is blocked by pre-treatment with a 5-HT2A receptor selective antagonist. Efavirenz also apparently competes for the same binding site at the 5-HT2A receptor as LSD, and prolonged chronic treatment with efavirenz drastically reduces 5-HT2A receptor levels. Findings from our receptor pharmacology studies and those in animals and humans correlate primarily with behavioral effects related to depressive, anxiogenic, hallucinogenic, and sleep disturbances. 

Conference Series STD AIDS 2017 International Conference Keynote Speaker Shibo Jiang photo
Biography:

Shibo Jiang's major research interest is to develop antiviral drugs, microbicides, and vaccines against HIV, HPV, influenza virus, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, Ebola virus and Zika virus. He has pioneered the studies on development of anti-HIV microbicides for prevention of sexual transmission of HIV. He discovered the first highly potent anti-HIV C-peptide and his patent were licensed to Trimeris for developing the first peptide anti-HIV drug, T-20 (Enfuvirtide, Fuzeon). In collaboration with Shanxi Jinbo Biomedicine Co., Ltd., he has successfully developed an anti-HPV bioproduct, JB-01, for controlling HPV infection and reducing morbidity of cervical cancer, which was approved for clinical use in more than 500 hospitals in China. He has published 374 peer-reviewed SCI papers with >11,000 citations. He has applied for 26 US patents (18 of them were issued), and 17 Chinese and PCT patents (5 of them were issued), and given more than 190 oral presentations at international conferences, academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies in more than 30 countries.

Abstract:

Most recently, more than 90% of the new HIV infection in China occurred through sexual transmission, particularly among the men who have sex with men (MSM). Therefore, it is urgently needed to develop effective and safe microbiocides to prevent sexual transmission of HIV. We previously have shown that a chemically modified bovine milk protein, β-lactoglobulin (3HP-β-LG, also known as JB01) is effective against infection by a broad-spectrum of HIV and SIV. It is highly stable, soluble, safe and abundant in milk. Therefore, we have been developing JB01 in a slow-release gel formulation as an effective, safe, and inexpensive microbicide for prevention of HIV sexual transmission in China and other countries. Later, we have demonstrated that JB01 is also highly effective against infection by HPV strains, including both the high- and low-risk types. Mechanism studies have demonstrated that JB01 protein that carries increased net-negative charges, because of the modification of the positively charged lysine and arginine residues, blocks HPV entry through its interaction with the positively charged proteins, such as L1 and L2 proteins on the surface of HPV. The results from a randomized open-label clinical trial of a JB01 biological dressing (JB01-BD) administered intravaginally have demonstrated that JB01-BD is safe, since no serious adverse events were recorded. The deteriorated vaginal micro-environment, due to the HPV infection, became normalized after the treatment. While only 13.5% of women in the non-treatment group becoming HPV-negative, about 60.5% of HPV-positive women in the treatment group became HPV-negative (P<0.001). These results suggest that JB01-BD is a safe and effective topical biological agent for the treatment of cervical HPV infection and reduction of morbidity of cervical cancer caused by the high-risk HPV infection. Since its approval by China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) in 2013, JB01-BD has been used in more than 500 hospitals in China for treating women with cervical infection of HPV.

Break: Networking and Refreshments @ 10:30-10:45
  • Workshops
Location: Las Vegas
Speaker

Chair

Elizabeth Secord

Wayne State University, USA

Session Introduction

Elizabeth Secord

Wayne State University, USA

Title: Adherence Barriers in Youth with Perinatally Acquired HIV
Speaker
Biography:

Elizabeth Secord is the Medical Director of the Horizons HIV prevention and treatment center for youth in Detroit, Michigan. She is a Professor of Pediatrics at Wayne State University and is the Division Chief for Allergy and Immunology at WSU, Children’s hospital of Michigan.

Abstract:

Adherence to antiretroviral medication is fraught with emotional baggage for many of our perinatally infected youth. This course will cover the reasons for poor adherence that we have encountered, and the programs we have designed to work with youth around these issues. Objectives for learners are: 1) To understand the multiple reasons for non-adherence in perinatally infected youth, including aversion to medication, lack of consistent housing, anger and disorganization. 2) Knowledge of possible interventions including home based programs, electronic interventions and the tools of motivational interviewing and other brief targeted psychological interventions versus long term therapy and 3) Use of a multi-disiplinary team approach. Cases will be discussed to illustrate various aspects of this very complex issue.

  • Workshop
Location: Las Vegas

Session Introduction

Elizabeth Secord

Wayne State University, USA

Title: Adherence Barriers in Youth with Perinatally Acquired HIV

Time : 10:45-11:25

Speaker
Biography:

Elizabeth Secord is the Medical Director of the Horizons HIV prevention and treatment center for youth in Detroit, Michigan. She is a Professor of Pediatrics at Wayne State University and is the Division Chief for Allergy and Immunology at WSU, Children’s hospital of Michigan.

Abstract:

Adherence to antiretroviral medication is fraught with emotional baggage for many of our perinatally infected youth. This course will cover the reasons for poor adherence that we have encountered, and the programs we have designed to work with youth around these issues. Objectives for learners are: 1) To understand the multiple reasons for non-adherence in perinatally infected youth, including aversion to medication, lack of consistent housing, anger and disorganization. 2) Knowledge of possible interventions including home based programs, electronic interventions and the tools of motivational interviewing and other brief targeted psychological interventions versus long term therapy and 3) Use of a multi-disiplinary team approach. Cases will be discussed to illustrate various aspects of this very complex issue.

Robert W Buckingham

University of Michigan-Flint, USA

Title: End stage care for the person with AIDS

Time : 11:25-12:05

Speaker
Biography:

Dr. Robert W. Buckingham joins PHHS after having previously been appointed as the Jack W. Thompson, M.D. Distinguished Visiting Professor at the University of Michigan-Flint in 2013-14. A Yale graduate, Dr. Buckingham was appointed inaugural Executive Director/Dean of the School of Public Health with the University of Saskatchewan, in 2009. He has authored more than 12 books and many scientific referred papers, with the most recent being a textbook entitled, “A Primer on International Health” published by Allyn & Bacon, and five books on hospice care, including, “Care of the Dying Child” published by the Continuum Publishing Company, which was translated in seven languages. Research areas are Hospice care, Global public health and HIV/AIDS in South East Asia and Central America; He has wide range of publication and attended National or International Oral Presentations

Abstract:

This presentation will focus on the care needed for the person with AIDS with a limited prognosis of less than 6 months to live. It will address issues of medical, nursing and psychological needs as well as spiritual. It will discuss palliative care versus curative care. Components of Hospice philosophy of care and treatment will be detailed.

  • Special Session
Location: Las Vegas

Session Introduction

Loran J. Thompson

The Wellness Edge, USA

Title: The impact of stress on those living wiith HIV/AIDS

Time : 12:05-12:45

Speaker
Biography:

Loran J Thompson is a Corporate Trainer, National Speaker and Health Coach with a long history of working with the HIV/AIDS community since 1990. She worked with UCSD on a Research Project on the effects of drugs and alcohol and how it increases the risk for getting or transmitting HIV/AIDS. She also worked with the San Diego County of Health and Human Services HIV/AIDS branch and trained the facilitators of the GLI’s (group level intervention) across San Diego County to insure quality groups for the participants. She also completed a final report of the findings for the county.

Abstract:

Stress is a state of physical, mental and emotional tension resulting from challenging circumstances. Long term stress can contribute too many health problems, including digestive problems, heart problems, headaches, depression, anxiety and lack of sleep. It’s particularly important for people living with HIV and AIDS because stress is known to have a huge effect on the immune system. And stress reduces the production of T-cells in the body. In my years of experience, working with people living with HIV/AIDS, this group lives with additional life stressors and elevated levels of stress. A few of these stressors include: Shame and stigma, managing medication and medical appointments, unwanted disclosure of status. In this session, you’ll learn about: What stress is, how it effects on the body, what you can do if you are living with HIV/AIDS and simple, practical tools and strategies to deal with stress.

Break: Group photo
Lunch Break: 13:20-14:20
  • AIDS stigma and discrimination
    Viral, Bacterial, Fungal & Protozoan STDs
    Awareness and knowled
Speaker
Biography:

Laura Pittiglio is an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing at Oakland University Rochester, MI. Her research interests include coping mechanisms of African American mothers who are living with HIV/AIDS and sexual risk taking behaviors that put young African American women in jeopardy of contracting HIV. Her most recent research is aimed at prevention strategies for sexual risk taking behaviors in adolescent and young African American females.

Abstract:

Research has demonstrated that adolescent and young African American females (AAF) face uncontrollable obstacles which interfere with the negotiation of safer sexual behaviors. If these obstacles are perceived as uncontrollable then these females may be at risk for the development of Learned Helplessness (LH). The LH model predicts that these uncontrollable obstacles may lead to deficits in motivational or cognitive decision making, deficits that could influence sexual risk taking behaviors. Therefore, it is important to gain a better understanding of the prevalence of LH in this population. Compared with other races and ethnicities, AAF still accounts for a greater proportion of new HIV diagnoses. If LH exists then the psychological impact of the uncontrollable obstacles prevalent in this group needs to be addressed in order to design cognitive interventions aimed at decreasing sexual risk taking behaviors. Since the concept of LH has not been tested in this particular population, a preliminary pilot study was conducted to initially trail a tool to examine the perceptions of LH in a populace of young, adolescent AAF. A convenience sample of 50 adolescents and young AAF between the ages of 16 and 21 were recruited from two clinics in Southeast Michigan. Results demonstrated a continuum of LH among the participants in the study. This pilot represents an initial attempt to examine if the obstacles that are experienced by adolescent and young AAF result in the perception of LH. Results are important because they validate the use of the Learned Helplessness Survey in this population. Moreover, findings can be used to refine the tool for use in studies aimed at examining the correlation between LH and sexual risk behaviors. Replication will provide empirical basis to be used in the design of culturally specific interventions for adolescent and young AA females.

 

Break: Group photo
Lunch Break: 13:10-14:00

Eugenia Curet

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USA

Title: HIV prevention among Hispanic youth and young adults in South Texas

Time : 14:00-14:25

Speaker
Biography:

Dr. Eugenia Curet. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Department of Social Work

EMPLOYMENT Academic - Post-Secondary Part-time lecturer, UTRGV College of Health Sciences (January 2016) Part-time Lecturer, UTRGV School of Medicine (June 2015) Instructor in Public Health, Weill Cornell Medical College (June 1, 1992 - March 30, 2008) Professional Assistant Dean, Student Support Counseling and Wellness, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine (June 2015) Assistant Dean, Student Health Services and Counseling and Psychological Services Center, UTPA (September 1, 2013 - May 30, 2015) Clinical Associate Professor and Assitant Dean for Student Health and Menal Health Services, The University of Texas at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College (April 1, 2008 - August 31, 2013) AWARDS AND HONORS 2013 Leadership on University Campuses and in the Community Award by the Texas Suicide Prevention Council, Texas Suyicide Prevention Council (April 1, 2013) TEACHING Courses Taught Adv SOCW Pract Individuals SOCW Practice w/ Latinos

Abstract:

The residents of South Texas continue to be heavily impacted by HIV, accounting for high rates of new infections, AIDS diagnoses and people living with HIV. The Texas-Mexico Border region is a major port of drug-trafficking as well as string market for “holding houses” for drug redistribution. A significant consequence of the drug trafficking in the area is the increase of HIV largely due to intravenous drug use and risky sexual behaviors. The Substance Abuse and HIV Prevention Project resulted in the establishment of an evidence-based approach to prevent substance abuse and the spread of HIV/AIDS among college students and community members and to facilitate the referral process of those who are at risk. By implementing the peer educator and community-health worker model, the project provided enhanced comprehensive substance abuse and HIV prevention education to more than 600 participants during 2013-2014. Level of awareness of important knowledge related to HIV/AIDS and Substance Use is measured through the administration of a pretest and posttest. Through the statistical analysis it was learned that the information sessions were successful at changing perceptions concerning risky sexual behaviors and drug use. This project outlines the sociocultural, structural, and individual issues that both facilitate and limit the access to health care and prevention services. The evidence for the effectiveness of minority serving institutions in collaboration with community-based organizations strategy is strong; that is why the project continues to increase system capacity to address substance use and HIV infection prevention. 

Speaker
Biography:

Jeff K.H. Cheung, MD, FACEP, FASAM, is a graduate of Mount Sinai School of Medicine.  He trained in emergency medicine at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, New York.  Jeff K.H. Cheung, MD, FACEP, FASAM, is a graduate of Mount Sinai School of Medicine.  He trained in emergency medicine at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, New York.  Cheung recently accepted the position of Interfaith Medical Center’s Chairman of Emergency Medicine

Abstract:

Statement of the problem: Interfaith Medical Center’s (IMC) Emergency Room lacked a systematic process to ensure that newly diagnosed HIV+ patients were linked to care.  The lack of defined policies and procedures to test and treat HIV+ patients was compounded by the high rate of socio-economic factors affecting the patient population. Through a FOCUS grant, in January 2015   IMC implemented an improved system for conducting HIV testing in the ED and linking newly diagnosed patients to follow up care. Findings: Interfaith Medical Center’s FOCUS program has conducted a retrospective study of patients initiating emergency department care where routine HIV testing was conducted from January 2015 to March 2017.  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the increase in newly HIV diagnosed patients resulting from the routine HIV testing in the emergency department and the efforts of the HIV clinical linkage to care team. Prior to routine HIV testing, IMC’s emergency department only tested on average 100 patients during January 2014 to December 2014 .During the study period; IMC has performed 10,520 4th generation HIV tests. Additionally, IMC was able to scale up HIV screening from year one to year two of the study. From January 2015 to Dec 2015 a total of 3,546 HIV tests were conducted. HIV testing almost doubled in year two increasing numbers to 6,974 tests.  From January 2015 to December 2015, IMC diagnosed 19 new HIV positives and linked 14 to care (68%) From January 2016 to March 2017, IMC diagnosed 22 new HIV positives and linked 19 to care (72%). Conclusion & Significance:   While the use of this model successfully identified patients with undiagnosed HIV infection in the ED, and enabled scale up of routine HIV screening in an emergency department setting. . Innovative testing approaches, such as routine, non-targeted screening, are necessary to effectively diagnose new HIV cases and link those patients to regular HIV medical care. Recommendations: In summary, Routine HIV testing at Interfaith Medical Center emergency department has increased the number of new HIV cases identified.   The steps that we undertook-i.e. EMR updates, updating polices, administrative support, training, lab procedures for notification, lab testing updates all aided in the increase of HIV Testing and linkage to care.

Speaker
Biography:

Shibani Datta is a Professor of Public Health in All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health. She was a Professor of Calcutta Medical College in West Bengal, India. She was the Team Leader of Central Surveillance team of India. Many of her research works have been published and presented in national and international journals and conferences. 

Abstract:

Background: HIV is considered to be the most potent risk factor for progression to active TB among those infected both with TB and HIV and as a result TB is the most life threatening opportunistic infection associated with HIV and biggest cause of death among patients with AIDS. In areas hard hit by HIV like India TB is increasing leading to greater case load thereby overstretching the already fragile health infrastructure. To achieve an effective, accessible, acceptable and affordable control program it is very much essential to address the health seeking behavior of the HIV positive patients.

Objectives & Methodology: An Institution based observational and cross-sectional study was done to see the association between different socio-demographic factors and tuberculosis infection in HIV patients and to study the health seeking behavior of patients having HIV with TB and HIV without TB.

Findings: In this study 104 cases of tuberculosis were diagnosed out of 500 HIV patients. It has been observed that the maximum concentration of HIV-TB co-infection patients are in the age group of 31-45 years (total 23%) and among the HIV-TB co-infection patients 79% are male and 21% are female. The other significant factors are literacy, occupation, economic status, housing and addiction etc.

Recommendation: Extensive awareness program regarding HIV/AIDS and TB is needed.

Speaker
Biography:

Mariam Davtyan is doctoral candidate in Public Health at University of California Irvine. In 2005, she has also served as a pediatric and adult HIV/AIDS Researcher at the LAC+USC Maternal, Child and Adolescent Center for Infectious Diseases and Virology (MCA Center). Her work with women of color living with HIV/AIDS has inspired her to study stigma, a significant stressor that leads to poor outcomes. Her research focuses on stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings and within provider-patient interactions. Her current projects use photovoice, a community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodology involving documentary photography, to define and describe the extent of stigma among African American and Latina women living with HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles, and to educate healthcare workers about the impact of stigma on patients. She has presented her research at the International Conference on HIV-Stigma at Howard University and the International AIDS Conferences in Melbourne, Australia, and Durban, South Africa. 

Abstract:

Despite biomedical advances in the treatment and care of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), stigma has remained a persistent global challenge. Health care settings and workers have been identified as important sources of stigma directed towards PLHIV. Studies have addressed the construct of stigma in US health care settings, but mainly from the perspectives of PLHIV. We used grounded theory to understand how health care professionals conceptualize HIV stigma in health care settings and how it may impact HIV patients to describe the pertinent concepts involved in the operationalization of stigma in health care settings and to develop a substantive model that projects a purposive view of HIV stigma in the health context. Our model indicates that stigma may be rooted in historically derogatory representations of HIV and intensified by patient-provider power inequalities. Stigma may be triggered by fear of contracting an incurable disease, inadequate clinical education and training on HIV and stigma, unintentional behaviors, and limited contact with HIV patients. Stigma was perceived as injurious to both patient and provider outcomes. Patient outcomes included engagement in care and psychological functioning, and provider outcomes included anxiety and nervousness when delivering care to HIV patients. Additional research on provider perceptions of stigma and programs that encourage empowerment, communication, and training may be needed for stigma reduction.

Rui Gu

New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, USA

Title: Application of Antiretroviral Drug Resistance Testing in the New York City Public Health Laboratory

Time : 15:40-16:05

Speaker
Biography:

Rui Gu completed her PhD from University of Connecticut and Postdoctoral studies from Wadsworth Center. She is a Research Scientist and the group leader in the NYC PHL HIV Phylogenetic Unit. She is the first author of 6 papers in reputed journals. 

Abstract:

Background: As part of the overall effort in the Ending the AIDS Epidemic (ETE) program in New York State, the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) at NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) launched HIV-1 Genotyping testing in June 2016 for DOHMH Sexual Health clinic patients with a new diagnosis of HIV. Availability of the testing will roll out to include all newly diagnosed patients city-wide throughout the next year. The significance of this implementation is to provide real-time viral sequence data and clinical anti-viral drug resistance data to public health epidemiologists and clinicians respectively. Phylogenetic analyses will be used to prioritize field response and provide guidance in disease management.

Method: Tests were performed according to the ViroSeq HIV-1 Genotyping System 2.0 (CELERA/Abbott Molecular) kit instruction. Viral sequences were analyzed using ViroSeq HIV-1 Genotyping Software v3.0 (CELERA/Abbott Molecular) to detect HIV-1 antiretroviral drug resistance-associated mutations. Wherever applicable, subtypes of HIV-1 viral sequences were identified using HIVseq program hosted by Stanford University's HIV Drug Resistance Database.

Results: From June 2016 to February 2017, NYC PHL performed ViroSeq HIV-1 genotyping test on 172 confirmed HIV-1 positive specimens. 151 specimens (87.8%) were sequenced and reported successfully. The subtype distribution of these specimens is: A (n=1), B (n=135), C (n=3), B+C (n=1), CRF01_AE (n=2), CRF02_AG (n=6), CRF07_BC (n=1), CRF12_BF (n=1) and 28_BF (n=1). In successfully sequenced and reported specimens, 27 specimens (15.7%) contained HIV-1 antiviral drug resistance mutations in protease and/or reverse transcriptase region that conferred antiviral drug resistance.

Conclusion: In support of the ETE program in NYC, NYC PHL began offering HIV-1 antiretroviral drug resistance testing in June, 2016. The test provides essential phylogenetic and clinical data to public health epidemiologists and clinicians in NYC respectively, enabling the NYC PHL to play an important role in the NYS ending the AIDS epidemic campaign.

Break: Networking and Refreshments @ 16:05-16:20
Speaker
Biography:

Sharwani Vijayshree Lal is currently working as a Medical Officer at a Central Government Hospital in the capital of India. She has developed sharp acumen and insight in effective diagnostical skills. Her passion for meticulous and comprehensive evaluation of a case, has matured during her rewarding exposure to healthcare in hospitals and educational institutions over the years. This case explains the importance of exhaustive history taking and heedful physical examination to reach a diagnosis.

Abstract:

Statement of the problem: 40 years old male with fever and constitutional symptoms for ≥2 months who concealed his diagnosis of HIV/AIDS and developed Zidovudine induced lactic acidosis with pancreatitis with myopathy. Methodology: Patient presented with c/o weakness, body ache, weight loss (8kg), pain abdomen since ≥2 months, and intractable vomiting and breathlessness since last 1 week. He was prescribed antibiotics, PPIs, prokinetics earlier by previous doctors but to no relief. Findings: General physical examination was unremarkable expect for toxic looks, dehydration and extensive oral thrush. HIV testing was advised but he refused to consent. On repeated counseling and questioning his wife accepted the patient being a case of HIV/AIDS on ART (Zidovudine, Lamivudine and Nevirapine) for past 1 year. This fact was willingly concealed by patient to all previous doctors. CECT head and abdomen, and routine laboratory reports were normal except S. Amylase which was 350U/L (Normal: 30-125U/L), S. Lipase was 210U/L (Normal: 10-150U/L) S. Lactate was 7mmol/L (Normal: 0.5-1.0mmol/L), CPK was 320U/L (Normal: 25-200U/L), CD4 cell counts were 224/µL. ABG was suggestive of high anion gap metabolic acidosis. A provisional diagnosis of AIDS with Zidovudine induced lactic acidosis with pancreatitis with myopathy was made. ART was immediately stopped and appropriate treatment was started. He was discharged after 10 days in satisfactory condition on Tenofovir, Lamivudine and Efavirenz. Conclusion & Significance: This case explains the importance of detailed history taking (including concomitant medicine exposure) and vigilant physical examination (oral candidiasis in our case) especially in India to reach a diagnosis where HIV/AIDS is a social stigma and its status is not willingly disclosed by the patient. Other fact being that Zidovudine can also cause lactic acidosis and pancreatitis (which is more commonly associated with Stavudine) and that too with no bone marrow toxicity (more often a hallmark of Zidovudine). 

Speaker
Biography:

Eveline Ndii Kalomo is an Assistant Professor at Wichita State, School of Social Work. She teaches various courses in social work for students both in the undergraduate and graduate programs. Her research interests are the intersections of HIV/AIDS and, kinship caregiving, population aging, gerontology, mental health, intimate partner violence, substance abuse, children’s mental health and educational outcomes. She has expertise and passion in improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by HIV and AIDS in Africa. Her research area stemmed from her extensive experience working with families and children affected by AIDS in Namibia.

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: Prenatally HIV-infected children are surviving due to improvements in antiretroviral treatment (ART). With the advent of ART, the quality of life and the survival rates of children living with HIV have significantly improved allowing these children to live into adolescence and well into adulthood. Despite the significant decrease in the morbidity and mortality of children, a disclosure issue is increasingly becoming a concern for policymakers, health professionals, and family members. Studies report that HIV disclosure is associated with increased self-esteem, lower depressive symptoms, and improved adherence to treatment. However, despite known benefits of disclosure, researchers suggest that HIV-infected children, do not know they are HIV-infected. Scholars, suggest that this practice may be attributed to parental fears, social stigma and discrimination, and lack of caregivers’ knowledge with respect to when and how to approach disclosure questions. However, limited research has examined this phenomenon in Namibia, one of the top five countries in the world with the highest AIDS prevalence rates.

Methodology & Conceptual Framework: Applying the ecological systems theory, this cross-sectional exploratory study conducted face-to-face interviews with 83 caregiver-child dyads of HIV-affected children aged 6-18.

Findings: The mean age of caregivers was 37.1 [range 15-93, SD=11.9]. Majority were female (87.5%). Over half HIV-infected children (55.7%) were between the ages 6 to 10 years old. More than two-thirds of children (67.1%) had their HIV diagnosis disclosed to them. Care givers (42.2%) believed it was very important to disclose the HIV status to children.

Conclusions & Recommendations: Health professionals and social workers should offer ongoing support to caregivers in the disclosure process so that children are sensitively and effectively informed of their HIV status. Greater practitioner-caregiver involvement is needed to ensure that caregivers have the adequate supports and communication skills to initiate and sustain the disclose process among adolescents. 

Speaker
Biography:

Simon Kang ethe is currently working as a professor at University of Fort Hare, South Africa.

Abstract:

It is critical that People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in African countries hard- hit by the HIV/

AIDS pandemic such as Botswana and South Africa be the cornerstone of a successful HIV/AIDS campaign by taking responsibility and accountability of taking the ARVs according to the drug regimen.  Anti-retrovirals (ARVs) are very expensive and drains national coffers immensely that translates to a heavy burden on the tax payers. The aim of this paper is, through a review of literature methodology, to debate and discuss a few underpinnings behind the PLWHA defaulting their drug regimen. The following environment promotes defaulting: poverty and its ramifications

such as lack of food; excessive intake of alcohol; capacity of the ARVs to deform body structure; use of both biomedical concoctions and those of traditional healers in tandem; sexual libido emanating to the use of ARVs; and stigma associated with taking ARVs. The paper recommends: strong awareness to strengthen PLWHA ownership of the campaign; immense community support of the PLWHA and the campaign generally; and further research on how to reduce food appetite and sexual libido.

Key Words: Stigma. Sexual Libido. Traditional Concoctions. Bio Medics. Traditional Healers.

Xingdong Ye

Guangzhou Institute Of Dermatology, China

Title: The upate of syphilis prevention in Guangzhou China: epidemiology and case reporting

Time : 17:35-18:00

Speaker
Biography:

Xingdong Ye has his passion in improving the health and wellbeing, graduated from Jiangxi Gannan School of Medicine, China in 1988, and got his master's degree in Sun Yatsum Medical University, Guangzhou in 1995, engaged in the prevention and treatment of syphilis. He loves life, rigorous scholarship, more than 100 professional academic papers had been published in the past decades, He has put forward to the prevention and control of syphilis in Guangzhou with his proposal entiled “1234” basic strategies after finishing the Guangzhou municipal major project on syphilis control, and reported application of nested quantitative PCR in detecting TP DNA in the diagnosis of syphilis from various biological samples for the first time.

Abstract:

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that causes cutaneous manifestations such as genital ulcers, and a variety of complications including neurologic, renal, gastrointestinal, and hepatic diseases. After being virtually eradicated in the 1960s, syphilis has made a re-emergence in China since the initiation of economic and social reforms, and Chinese government has implemented a battle for syphilis control named syphilis control plan 2010~2020, set the goal of The average annual growth rate of early syphilis is less than 5%,By the end of 2015, the number of congenital syphilis was controlled at 30/100,000 live births, and at the end of 2020, the number of live births was controlled at 15/10. Guangzhou is one of the cities most affected by syphilis within Guangdong province. During the period of 2000 to 2011, syphilis burden in this area was tripled that of the national average. Given its specific position as the capital city of Guangdong Province and the de facto economic center of South China, as well as the large population involved (over 14 million in 2016), syphilis epidemics in Guangzhou are of great concern. We had downloaded the data of syphilis case from China national infectious reporting system and analysed. It showed that number of syphilis cases reported in Guangzhou has increased from 2691 individuals in 2005 to 8546 individuals in 2016, and incidence of syphilis during this time was increase from 47.33/100,000 population in 2005 to 55.28/100,000 population in 2016. And of those syphilis case reported, the incidence of early syphilis including primary syphilis and secondary syphilis had been decreased from 21.84/100,000 population to 7.84/100,000 populations, The composition ratio of different types of syphilis changes, highlighting the realization of early syphilis, congenital syphilis decline otherwise the proportion of latent syphilis has been rising, cases of latent syphilis account for 48% in 2015 increased to 82% in 2016, the incidence of congenital syphilis get to around 30/ 100,000 live births. But, whether the syphilis cases in the national infectious reporting system mentioned above were all really syphilis cases of initiated diagnose and need to be reported? Answer was not. We reviewed more than 2000 syphilis cases data and conclude that the accuracy of syphilis case report ranged from 30.21% to 73.14% in China, it implicated that Syphilis case reported in the infectious disease system was partly incorrect because of over-reporting (rate  of over Reporting ranged from 27% to 70% varied different types of syphilis). As for syphilis incidence of high risk population such as MSM, FSWs and Drug user population, cross-sectional survey by our colleague during recently year showed that The rate of TPPA positive was 10.1% among MSM; and the prevalence of syphilis was 5.5%; HIV 7.6% and co-infection was 2.7%. For population of FSWs, The positive rate of TPPA was 8.2%, the reactive syphilis prevalence was 1.4%. The positive rate of TPPA in middle and low places was 9.4%, and the rate of the population with both RPR and TPPA positive was 1.6%. We also conducted a syphilis incidence investigation among Drug users in 2014, Guangzhou, It showed that The positive rate of TPPA was 8.9%, the syphilis prevalence was 4%. In short, China has implemented the second battle for control syphilis spreading for seven years, over reporting of syphilis cases were common and ranged from 27% to 70% varied different types of syphilis. Currently, more than 80% reported syphilis cases were latent syphilis. Both early syphilis and congenital syphilis had been controlled through series intervention precaution. Men who has sex with men has the highest incidence of syphilis among the target four populations, However, in Guangzhou, the current epidemiological features of syphilis among MSM has not yet showed that syphilis promoted HIV infection and spread that observed in other country and region.

  • Special Session
Location: Las Vegas

Session Introduction

Suzanne Moore

Caracole, Inc. USA

Title: Housing First and Harm Reduction Practices and Standards
Speaker
Biography:

Suzanne Moore studied Psychology and has worked in substance abuse and with the homeless population for over 10 years.  For the last 7 years, her focus has been housing opportunities for people living with HIV, specifically Housing First.  She has presented on Housing First and Harm Reduction at the National HIV/AIDS Housing Conference in Washington DC, the National Harm Reduction Conference in San Diego, and various other HIV related events.  She is currently the Associate Director of Housing at Caracole, Inc, SW Ohio’s largest AIDS Service Organization.  Caracole, Inc. has 2 permanent housing programs, a up and coming site based housing program, and several financial services.  

Abstract:

Caracole is an ASO in Cincinnati, Ohio with permanent housing programs for homeless individuals and families, site based housing, homelessness prevention support, and prevention/education services.  In 2013, the housing programs transformed from a housing ready to a housing first model in an effort to address client needs.  A greater percentage of our clients are people who inject drugs, are newly released from prison, and/or are engaged in sex work.  As a housing ready agency, our program was under-utilized and clients were struggling.  Following our belief that housing is a right and housing is healthcare, Caracole identified the need for new programming, including HIV/HCV testing, Evidence Based interventions, and site based harm reduction services. Three years into this new model, we have powerful data to support that our clients are experiencing decreased viral loads, fewer arrests and overdoses, and increased housing stability.  We can prove that housing = healthcare.  The Caracole housing team includes case management, prevention and education services, specialized housing support, and mental health services.  In addition, relationships with MAT providers, mental health and treatment agencies, shelters, outreach workers, and other housing programs provide a continuum of care.  We are proud of our client’s successes and look forward to sharing not only our data, but continued barriers, implementation, outcomes, staff challenges, and client response.      

Break: Networking and Refreshments @ 10:40-11:00

Daniel Bauer

Motivational Speaker & Escape Artist, DB Studios, USA

Title: Life or death: A story of living with HIV in India
Speaker
Biography:

Daniel Bauer is an internationally renowned motivational speaker, escape artist and HIV Activist. He holds a B.S. in Management and an M.S. in Family Life Education. He has spoken to more than a half-million youth and healthcare professionals to date. He is currently a candidate to become a Nationally Certified Family Life Educator. He is a WEGO Health Activist Award nominee in the categories of “Hero” and “Best Kept Secret”. Bauer also serves as the Community Engagement Director Emeritus at The Alive Inside Foundation. He continues to travel the world performing to sold out crowds with his famed escape and magic talents with a mission to inspire as many hearts possible to believe that HIV will come to an end.

Abstract:

As an American born citizen, where Daniel Bauer has experienced his fair share of trials and tribulations living with HIV and man-made HIV stigma that still thrives in America, nothing could prepare Bauer for what he was about to endure as he prepared to relocate to India to become the Director of an International school in the heart of Gurgaon. This special session is a true to life story of the actual events that took place which left Daniel Bauer in a life and death situation with very scary, uncertain outcomes. Attendees will learn how HIV Stigma is thriving globally, and also learn how discrimination does not exist with everyone. Following the telling of this heart-pounding journey, attendees will be invited to discuss ways in which we as a global community can work closer together to educate more on the myths and facts of those living with HIV in hopes of continuing to eradicate HIV Stigma world-wide.

  • Sessions
    Global Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS, STDs, & STIs
    HIV in women
    HIV Drug Discovery and Research
    HIV, bone damage and aging
    HIV and Retroviral Diseases Affecting Afro-Asian Continents
Location: Las Vegas
Speaker
Biography:

Yin Yueqi is a PhD student major in Epidemiology and Biostatistics in Southeast University. Her research focuses on HIV-1 transmission and phylogenetic analysis, especially among young people. Till now, one article about HIV-1 drug resistance mutations meta-analysis in Chinese has been accepted, and another article is under review. Wuxi and other cities in Jiangsu province were the main study settings, and the content in this abstract is part of her research. 

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: HIV transmitted drug resistance (TDR) can compromise antiretroviral therapy (ART), especially where ART has been scaled up, like China. Wuxi is a high economy region in eastern China, adjacent to Shanghai. Although the prevalence of HIV-1 infections is rising, little is known on TDR among newly diagnosed individuals in Wuxi. The aim of this study was to characterize the HIV-1 genotypes and TDR mutations among treatment-naïve HIV-infected individuals in Wuxi, China.

Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The pol fragment containing the entire protease and the first 300 codons of the reverse transcriptase gene was amplified by nested PCR. Genotypic DR and phylogenetic analyses were performed on the 139 obtained sequences which were successfully amplified from 174 individuals.

Findings: Multiple genotypes were identified, including CRF01_AE (43.2%), CRF07_BC (24.5%), CRF67_01B (8.6%), CRF08_BC (7.9%), subtype B (5.8%), BC (1.4%), and 59_01B (0.7%). 19 individuals (13.7%) were detected with various levels of drug resistance degree, including two high-level degree individuals, one medium-level degree individual, and sixteen low-level degree individuals. A total 3.6% of the subjects were found to be infected with HIV-1 variants with surveillance drug-resistant mutations (SDRMs) according to the world health organization (WHO) list.

Conclusion & Significance: The prevalence of CRF67_01B (8.6%) in Wuxi was higher than other cities in Jiangsu province. Although TDR in Wuxi was in low level, there were still other major resistance mutations being detected, like V179E, V179D, K103Q and E138A, which are not in the WHO list. High HIV-1 diversity has been found in Wuxi, indicating possible transmission of anti-retroviral drug resistance mutations. Therefore, continued molecular monitoring and epidemiological surveillance are imperative.

Speaker
Biography:

Jing Zhu is majoring in epidemiology of infectious disease. He has been engaged in research on HIV/STD prevention and intervention for high-risk population who are vulnerable to HIV/STD in border regions of Yunnan Province, China for many years. In the last 5 years his studies were focused on HIV/STD prevention for female sex workers and their male clients in the China-Vietnam border region

Abstract:

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) are vulnerable to human immunodeficiency virus and sexually transmitted diseases (HIV/STD) infection and serve as a bridge in HIV transmission from the high-risk population to the general, low-risk population. Little is known about the characteristics and risk factors for HIV/STD infection among Vietnamese cross-border FSWs in Hekou county Yunnan Province in southwestern China bordering with Vietnam recently.

Methods: To examine the factors of Vietnamese FSWs that correlate with the prevalence of HIV/STD infection in the China-Vietnam border region, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2015 in Hekou county of Yunnan province, China. We performed a questionnaire survey to collect data on demographics, sexual behavior, and drug use. Blood and urine samples were collected for testing of HIV/STD and drug use.

Results: Totally 594 female participants were recruited in our study. We found that the prevalence of HIV and herpes simplex virus (HSV-2) infection among Vietnamese FSWs were 1.85% (11/594) and 45.29% (269/594). In addition 6 Vietnamese FSWs (1.01%) were Syphilis positive. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that HSV-2 infection was a risk factor of HIV infection, further more age, monthly income, has no-commercial sexual partners, and positive urinalysis result for amphetamine-type stimulants were correlated factors of HSV-2 infection of Vietnamese cross-border FSWs.

Conclusion: Prevalence of HIV infection was decreased but HSV-2 prevalence was still alarmingly high among Vietnamese cross-border FSWs in Hekou County. The correlation between HIV and HSV-2 infection among Vietnamese FSWs suggests that the increased role of sexual transmission in the HIV epidemic in the China-Vietnam border region. Positive urinalysis result for amphetamine-type stimulants was observed in Vietnamese FSWs with HSV-2 infection, confirming that drug use is an important target in future HIV/STD related interventions. Moreover, non-commercial sexual partners of Vietnamese FSWs may be a potential bridge for HIV/STD transmission that needs further research.

Speaker
Biography:

Simon Afewerki Gebremedhin is a Database Management Expert in Bureau of Standards and Evaluation of National Commission for Higher Education since six years and also a part-time Lecturer for the past one and half year in Asmara College of Health Science, Eritrea. Currently he is studying Masters in Epidemiology and Biostatistics in Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Tongji Medical College, School of Public Health in Wuhan, China.

Abstract:

Background & Aim: Adequate comprehensive knowledge on HIV/AIDS and positive acceptance attitude towards People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) are very important and vanguards in averting and ending the epidemics. This study was aimed at assessing the associates of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and acceptance attitude towards PLHA among young women aged 15-24 of Nigeria and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Methods: A cross-sectional study using the 2013 Nigeria and 2013-14 Democratic Republic of Congo Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data. IBM SPSS version 22 was employed to multivariate logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results: Awareness of the young women of Nigeria (91.1%) and DRC (90.6%) was generally stable. Comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (33.6% vs. 9.8% respectively) and acceptance attitude towards PLHA (28.4% vs. 3.2% respectively) was low. Age, place of residence, educational level, religion, marital status and wealth index were significant associates of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge. Similarly, age, educational level, religion, marital status, wealth index and comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge showed significant associations with acceptance attitude towards PLHA. After controlling the socio-demographic characteristics, higher comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (OR 1.09, 95% C.I 1.01-1.17) and acceptance attitude towards PLHA women (OR 2.54, 95% C.I 2.17-2.98) was observed among young women in Nigeria than in DRC.

Conclusion: A high level of HIV/AIDS awareness was observed. However the level of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and acceptance attitude towards PLHA was very low. Hence educational intervention programs to raise the awareness and knowledge of the young women on HIV/AIDS are highly needed.

Shibani Datta

All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health, India

Title: The current scenario of HIV/AIDS and the National AIDS Control Programme in India

Time : 12:50-13:15

Speaker
Biography:

Dr  Shibani  Datta  is a  Professor  of Public  Health  in  All  India  Institute  of  Hygiene  and  Public  Health. Previously she  was  a Professor of Calcutta Medical College which  is  a very  renowned  College in West  Bengal  India . She  was  the team leader of  Central Surveillance team of  India. She acted  as a  resource  person of  various  Training Programmes.   Many  of her  research  works  have  been  published  in  National and International journals .

Abstract:

The last decade has seen a 50% decline in the number of new HIV infections  in  India. Despite being home to the world's third-largest population suffering from HIV/AIDS (with South Africa and Nigeria having more), the AIDS prevalence rate in India is lower than in many other countries. In 2014, India's AIDS prevalence rate stood at approximately 0.26% — the 90th highest in the world. The spread of HIV in India is primarily restricted to the southern and north-eastern regions of the country and India has also been praised for its extensive anti-AIDS campaign. The main factors which have contributed to India's large HIV-infected population are extensive labor migration and low literacy levels in certain rural areas resulting in lack of awareness and gender disparity. The Government of India has also raised concerns about the role of intravenous drug use and prostitution in spreading AIDS, especially in north-east India and certain urban pockets. To control the spread of the virus, the Indian government set up the National AIDS Control Programme in 1987to co-ordinate national responses such as blood screening and health education . On February 12, 2014 Government of India launched the fourth phase of its anti-AIDS/HIV strategy, the National AIDS Control Programme, NACP 1V, under the banner of National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO). The  highlights of  the  programme  are Reversal of AIDS epidemic through a participative/inclusive approach, Targeting High Risk Groups (HRG) – truckers, migrants, pregnant women, etc, Strengthening the response in India through a cautious and well defined integration process (testing and counselling), discussion  with stakeholders ,  promotion of female  condoms,  upscaling  the  antiretroviral therapy ,social  protection and  prevention  of parent to child transmission  etc.  

Break: Lunch Break: 13:15-14:00
Speaker
Biography:

Sharwani Vijayshree Lal is currently working as a Medical Officer at a Central Government Hospital in the capital of India. She has developed sharp acumen and insight in effective clinical judgement. Her passion for meticulous and comprehensive management of a case, has matured during her rewarding exposure to healthcare in hospitals and educational institutions over the years. This study, capturing profile of opportunistic infections in patients with HIV, effectively demonstrates the significance of sound assessment and diligent handling of a case.

Abstract:

Statement of the problem: India has 21.17 lakh people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) in 2015. Although mortality has decreased substantially but the course of HIV is still frequently complicated by various opportunistic infections which are still the most common cause of death amongst these patients.

Methodology: It was a cross sectional, observational study done over a span of one year at PGIMER, Dr. RML Hospital, New Delhi. Patients were evaluated for any pre-existing opportunistic infections by clinical, radiological and laboratory parameters.

Results: A total of 651 patients were started on ART (64% males and 36% females). The most common route of transmission was heterosexual (95%) followed by intravenous drug abuse (3%) and 2% couldn’t elicit any cause. 32, 13 and 24 patients were positive for HBsAg, Anti-HCV and VDRL respectively. The mean CD4 counts of 651 patients were 264/µL. 130 (20%) patients amongst these 651 developed or had opportunistic infections at the time of initiation of ART and their mean CD4 counts were 95/µL. All of them were on 1st line ART as per NACO guidelines (2NRTI + 1NNRTI). 95% compliance was seen in >90% of these patients. 80% of these opportunistic infections manifested after ART was started (Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome - IRIS). The most common opportunistic infection was Tuberculosis (74%) out of which 61 (45%) patients had Extra Pulmonary TB and 39 (29%) had Pulmonary TB. 16 (12%), 11 (8%), 3 (2%), 3 (2%) had Candidiasis, Diarrhea, Herpes Zoster, Cryptococcal meningitis respectively, and 1 case each of Toxoplasmosis, LRTI and Molluscum contagiosum. 14 patients died of these infections, 6 were lost for follow up.

Conclusion: Opportunistic infections especially TB is very common in PLHIV in India. Many of these infections occur as a part of IRIS, where a thorough clinical judgement and expert management is of utmost importance.

Speaker
Biography:

General practitioner in charge of the Gynaecology/Obstetric wards and maternity at the Seventh-Day Adventist Health Center, Buea, Cameroon. I was born on the 28th of October 1989 and I obtained an M.D degree from the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Buea, Cameroon in 2016. I also received training on training on cervical cancer screening and managements such as cryotherapy and leep procedures. I have also given several health talks through numerous massive cervical cancer screening outreach campaigns nationwide to teenagers and all women of reproductive age. As a young physician; I have developed interest in sexual and reproductive health research particularly in the field of HIV-AIDS and I am in the process of writing few articles on HIV-AIDS. I speak and write 2 languages and I love swimming and playing football 

Abstract:

Background: HIV-AIDS in pregnancy and postpartum remains a global public health burden and depression is a significant contributor to the global burden of this current pandemic. Current studies show there is an association between depressive symptoms and HIV during pregnant and postpartum, lower adherence Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). Depression during these periods jeopardizes effective care mostly in postpartum. However, there is lack of data regarding these associations in Cameroon. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence, determinants of depression in pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV-AIDS in the South West Region of Cameroon.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted involving 107 HIV-positive women during pregnancy and postpartum aged 18-47 years in the Buea and Limbe Regional and Kumba District Hospitals from August 2016 to April 2017. Depression was diagnosed using the nine-item patient health questionnaire and classified as none, mild and moderate. Multivariate analysis was used to investigate determinants of depression in these patients.

Results: The mean age of the study population was 32.6±10 years and 59 (55.1%) were pregnant while 48 (44.9%) were in postpartum. The prevalence of depression was 71.9% (n=77). Stigmatization by health personnel (OR=2.85, 95% CI: 1.67-5.01) and partners in discordant couples with fear of divorce and rejection (OR=4.73, 95% CI: 2.64-6.03), ostracisms by the community (OR=4.01, 95% CI: 2.14-5.75), fear of transmission to the newborn (OR=6.71, 95% CI: 3.92-8.24), lower CD4 counts ≤ 200mm3 (OR=5.01, 95% CI: 2.44-7.75) and lower adherence to ART (OR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.14-4.75) were determinants of depression in these women.

Conclusion: Our study suggests there is a high prevalence of depression among HIV-positive

women during pregnancy and postpartum, with more than one in two women affected.

Multidisciplinary care for HIV-positive women during pregnancy and postpartum and screening for depression involving mental health practitioners is highly encouraged.

Speaker
Biography:

Ezinna E Enwereji, Abia State University , Nigeria

Abstract:

Introduction:

Studies have shown that performing on stage allows individuals to use   rational   and   holistic approaches to suggest  solutions to problems.   Following this, using drama as an intervention strategy could result to   internalizing both the emotional and cognitive dimensions of a problem to produce   positive changes. This study used   drama to create awareness on HIV and AIDS risk reduction practices    among  university students .  

Materials and method:

 First  year students in three universities, Federal, State and Private Universities were used  for the study. It was assumed that using drama as a form of intervention for the first year  students, will  create awareness  on the likelihood of sexual overtures   in tertiary institutions. 

A random sample of ninety ((90) students made up of  30 students from each of the three universities studied was used.   The completed copies of self-administered pre- and post drama    questionnaire    were collected and   analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively using Tables and percentages.

Results:

   Results  showed that  27 (90%) of   students  in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUA) , 28 (98%) in Abia State University (ABSU) and  28(93%)  in  Rhema  University  were  aware that HIV is a virus infection.  Also a good number of   students 29 (97%) in MOUA  ,  28(93%) in ABSU and   27( 90%) in  Rhema  viewed   sharing sharp objects like razor blades and  syringes  as  risk factor for HIV infection.   

 Knowledge on   meaning of unprotected sex, showed that   25 (83%)  of students  in MOUA,  22 (73%)   in ABSU, and   23 (77%)   in Rhema  viewed  unprotected sex as having sex without condom. 

Conclusion:

Based on  result of the study, drama    is   a valuable and timely intervention strategy that is capable of encouraging   HIV risk reduction among university students.  

Key words: drama, intervention, HIV risk reduction, condom                                                                                                        

Speaker
Biography:

Ezeama Martina is currently working at the Imo State University, Nigeria. Her research interest is HIV/AIDS, Public health etc.

Abstract:

Introduction

Strategies to prevent Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS among adolescents remain the greatest challenge in human sustainable development especially in developing countries like Nigeria.   It is necessary to provide in school adolescents with appropriate HIV and AIDS preventive educational interventions.  Effective interventions for sustainable HIV prevention among adolescents are limited in Nigeria. This study investigated the   effects of using Class-room Instruction (CI) and Drama (DR) for  HIV and AIDS prevention  among in school adolescents in Imo State,Nigeria.

Materials and Method:

A quasi-experimental design using 165 students from three randomly selected co-educational secondary schools was adopted. There were two experimental groups (CI and DR) and control.  Baseline data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire with 29-point knowledge and  9-point attitudinal scales. To analyse knowledge, scores  of <15 and ≥15 were classified as poor and good respectively; while for  attitude,  scores of  <5 and ≥5 were  categorised as negative and positive.  The results for baseline studies were used to design interventions that were implemented for 8 weeks. Also mid-term and follow-up evaluations were conducted during the study.  Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t-test and ANOVA at p=0.05.

Results:

The mean ages of the respondents in CI, DR and control groups were 13.4 ± 1.2, 13.9 ± 1.5 and 13.8 ± 1.2 years respectively. Knowledge scores on HIV/AIDS at baseline were 20.5±2.7, 20.4 ± 2.6 and 21.1 ± 2.7 for CI, DR and Control groups respectively. These scores increased to 22.7 ± 2.7, 22.6±1.8 and 21.2 ± 0.3 at mid-term for  CI, DR and control, respectively. At follow-up, scores for CI and DR increased to 23.9 ± 1.8 and 24.5 ± 1.4 respectively while the  score for the control   dropped to 20.0 ± 2.8.  Scores for attitude among   CI, DR and control groups during  baseline study  were 5.3 ± 1.4, 4.9 ± 1.5 and 5.3 ± 1.0 respectively. For  mid-term, attitude scores were 5.1 ± 1.2, 5.0 ± 0.9 and 4.7 ± 1.5 for CI, DR and control respectively while scores  for  follow-up were 5.3 ± 1.2, 5.6 ± 0.7 and 4.5 ± 1.2, indicating  greater  increase among the intervention  groups   than that of  control.

Conclusion:

Intervention using drama yielded more positive outcomes in both knowledge gained and in attitudinal change than others. Drama is therefore recommended as the most appropriate HIV intervention strategy for sustainable  HIV and AIDS prevention among in school adolescents in Imo State, Nigeria.

Keywords:     Strategies for HIV/AIDS preventive   intervention, Knowledge, Attitudinal                                  change, Adolescents in school. 

Speaker
Biography:

Shonisani Tshivhase University of Venda, South Africa

Abstract:

Background: The exchange of money or gifts for sexual relationships, also called transactional sex, is considered a sexual risk behavior worldwide; and continues to pose sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies risks and other health complications amongst people engaging into this type of relationships.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to explore the perceptions of students regarding transactional sex and its effects on health at the University of Venda.

Methods: The study adopted a qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design to understand the perceptions of students regarding transactional sex. The target populations of the study were registered students at one of the selected University in South Africa. Purposive technique was used to recruit 18 participants. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and analyzed using Tesch’s thematic analysis.

Results: The study concluded that students at one of the selected Universities of South Africa perceive transactional sex as a material based relationship, prostitution, immoral behavior and abusive relationship. Students perceived socio-economic status, social classes, behavioral aspects and peer pressure to be driving factors pushing students to engage in transactional sex.

Conclusion & Recommendations: Transactional sex is common among University community and has far reaching public health consequences as well as social. Students at this University perceived transactional sex as a bad behavior and this calls for the University to ensure enough extra mural activities and students to engage in activities that could generate the pocket money, awareness to educate student not to engage into transactional sex and also provide health talks through printing of pamphlets with communicating massages.

Speaker
Biography:

Christopher Zaab-Yen Abana has research experience in virology such as HIV, influenza and viral hemorrhagic fevers. He also has laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques such as genome extraction and purification, polymerase chain reaction (conventional and real time), restriction fragment length polymorphism, agarose gel electrophoresis and sequencing. The lack of an HIV-2 viral load assay in Ghana for the management of such patients on therapy urged him to win a grant from the HIV Research Trust to undertake training on the HIV-2 viral load assay in New York, USA. His current research focusses on optimizing the first HIV-2 viral load assay in Ghana and determining the association between gut microbiota and Ghanaian HIV infected individuals. He has won several awards notable among them include Best Young Scientist 2016 (College of Health Sciences, Ghana) and Best Poster Presentation (Feb 2017, Noguchi Research Conference, Ghana). 

Abstract:

Statement of the Problem: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) and drug resistance studies worldwide have focused almost exclusively on HIV-1. In Ghana, the HIV epidemic is characterized by the domination of HIV-1 with few HIV-2 co-circulating. As a result, there is limited information on ART and drug resistance in HIV-2 patients. We therefore sought to determine viral load and drug resistance mutations in HIV-2 patients in Ghana to inform the clinical management of such individuals.

Methods: We used purposive sampling to collect blood from 16 consented patients confirmed as HIV-2 and HIV-1/2 dual infections by serology. A real-time RT-PCR assay was used to determine the viral load of patients by using an HIV-2 RNA standard as a reference. Nucleic acid (RNA and DNA) were extracted from plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) respectively. The reverse transcriptase (RT) and protease (PR) genes of HIV-2 were amplified, sequenced and then analyzed for drug resistance mutations and HIV-2 group.

Findings: Nine patients comprising 7 ART-naïve and 2 ART-experienced had detectable HIV-2 viral loads (range: 2.35–5.45 logIU/mL). Five of the patients were identified as HIV-2 group B and two as HIV-2 group A. HIV-2 drug resistance mutations (M184V, K65R, Y115F) were identified in one ART-experienced patient.

Conclusion & Significance: This is the first report of HIV-2 viral load determination and drug resistance mutations in HIV-2 strains in patients in Ghana. The results indicate the need for continuous monitoring of HIV-2 drug resistance to improve clinical management of HIV-2 infected patients in a setting focused on HIV-1 patients.

Break: Networking and Refreshments @ 16:30-16:50