JANAC-JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF NURSES IN AIDS CARE

A Call to Action for Programs and Doula Services to Support Pregnant Women With HIV in the United States Through Education and Training: A Commentary
Duthely LM, Villar-Loubet OM, Diaz-Mendez N, Holden Q, Rosa-Cunha I, Alcaide ML, Fein L, Harris K and Potter JE
Current perinatal HIV guidelines advocate for a patient-centered approach to infant feeding for people with HIV. With guidance and support, eligible people with HIV can consider all feeding options-including breastfeeding-for their infants. In this commentary, we provide a background on infant feeding choice for people with HIV. We also propose the incorporation of doula services into an existing perinatal HIV service to support the success of an infant feeding choice approach.
Legal Barriers and Ethical Challenges in HIV Prevention and Care: A Case Study on the Criminalization of Sex Workers and Clients Living With HIV in China
Duan Z and Xie Z
Legal provisions, as a key component of social structures, have a significant impact on HIV prevention and control efforts. Article 12 of the "Interpretation of Law in Handling Criminal Cases on Organizing, Forcing, Luring, Sheltering, or Introducing Prostitution" [Prostitution Law], jointly issued by China's Supreme Court and Supreme Procuratorate in 2017, stipulates that sex workers and clients aware that they are living with HIV who engage in commercial sexual activities are to be heavily penalized for spreading sexually transmitted disease, regardless of their actual viral load or use of safety measures. Our study employs a case study methodology, aiming to explore the adverse impacts of the criminalizing provisions of China's Prostitution Law on HIV prevention efforts through the analysis of specific cases. An analysis of cases reveals that records of antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV, intended to manage their illness and reduce transmission risk, have paradoxically been used as evidence for their convictions.
Examining Handgrip Strength in Persons Living With HIV in United States, Thailand, and South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Nokes KM, Davey CH, Sokhela DG, Orton PM, Phillips JC, Tufts KA, Perazzo JD, Portillo C, Schnall R, Sefcik E, Hamilton MJ, Dawson-Rose C and Webel AR
Frailty is associated with adverse clinical outcomes and includes muscle weakness measured as handgrip strength in the lowest 20%. Our study quantitatively examined handgrip strength in people living with HIV (PWH; N = 653) compared with reference norms using data from the National Institutes of Health toolbox project. In every age/gender category, the handgrip strength of PWH was significantly lower than reference norms. Although handgrip strength generally declines after midlife with losses accelerating with increasing age, we found this trend in PWH women but not in men. Handgrip is critical in completing daily activities such as opening medication and food containers and carrying bags of groceries. Despite comparatively low handgrip strength, we did not find significant relationships between handgrip strength of PWH and medication adherence, physical function, social health, or pain interference. Overall, our findings suggest the need for further exploration as to how significantly impaired handgrip strength affects activities of daily living and self-care management.
A Commentary on Nurse-Driven Approaches to Opioid Settlement Fund Utilization at the Intersection of Infectious Disease in the United States
Mayer CE
This commentary seeks to inform registered nurses how to participate in opioid abatement decision making. Legal structures of opioid abatement spending are presented, as well as spending limitations citing federal and state law. Areas of advocacy at the intersection of infectious disease (ID), substance use disorder (SUD), and nursing, including harm reduction, scope of practice policies, and billing laws are discussed. Examples of nurse-led ID prevention and SUD treatment programs are offered. Overall, nurses with ID and SUD expertise can influence opioid abatement spending and nurse-related health policy.
Exploring the Relationship Between Insomnia and Biological Factors, Substance Use, and Physical Activity in People With HIV in the United States: Insights From the PROSPER Study
Horvat Davey C, Willig AL, Ruderman SA, Dos Santos AP, Oliveira V, Gripshover BM, Long DM, Cleveland JD, Crane HM, Fleming J, Buford TW, Burkholder G, Saag MS and Webel AR
Little is known about factors associated with insomnia in people with HIV (PWH). We conducted a secondary analysis to examine the relationship among insomnia and biological factors, substance use, and physical activity indicators. Five hundred and eighty-three PWH were included in this analysis. Insomnia was assessed using the validated HIV Symptom Index and dichotomized as present or absent. Drug and alcohol use was assessed using data from the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems patient-reported outcomes, including AUDIT-C. Actigraphy was used to assess physical activity. Data were analyzed using independent-samples t-tests, Chi-square tests, and relative risk regression analyses. We found associations between insomnia and employment status (p < .01) and substance use (marijuana, tobacco, and methamphetamine use; p < .05) but not with physical activity indicators (all p > .05). Overall, these results suggest that PWH who report use of substances are more likely to experience insomnia, which can have implications on health and well-being.
Community-Informed New Media-Based Knowledge Translation Addressing HIV Stigma Among the General Population and Health Care Providers in Louisville, Kentucky: A Clinical Brief
Nzama N, Smith A, Chandler C, Rozema I, Aya Ezurah-Bullock NA, Harris LM, Osezua V, Metzger IW, Bond K, Rice BM, Hampton M, Krigger K and Kerr J
Community-engaged knowledge translation (KT) demonstrates promise for reducing the time gap between research innovation and application and creating community interventions. Digital technology (new media) has emerged as a dissemination tool for health promotion education. However, guidance on community-engaged KT using new media remains limited. Thus, this article documents the process of developing and implementing new media community-informed KT guided by the Knowledge-to-Action Framework. The two-part intervention includes (a) continuing medical and nursing education and (b) a podcast focusing on HIV stigma reduction. Facilitators of development and implementation include relying on a systematic model of community decision making to select and guide KT approaches and leveraging the expertise of the community for implementation. Barriers include stigma, which prevented optimizing program delivery, and practical challenges to community advisory board engagement, such as member relocation. Community-engaged KT is crucial for developing effective public health interventions. Future studies should consider this approach to developing new media-focused interventions.
Evaluating the Acceptability of HASMEP-T: A Qualitative Study Among Thai Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV Using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability
Tienthong S, Khumsaen N, Elter P, Jaimun B and Chenchob P
The HIV/AIDS Self-Management Education Program-Thai (HASMEP-T) was developed to enhance self-management capabilities among Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV through a structured, group-based, educational approach. To assess the program's acceptability, a qualitative study guided by the theoretical framework of acceptability was conducted with 30 MSM who completed the 14-session intervention at a hospital-based HIV clinic. Thematic analysis revealed high acceptability across all seven theoretical framework of acceptability domains. Participants described increased self-efficacy in managing their condition, strengthened peer and provider support, and improved medication adherence. The program's cultural relevance and supportive delivery environment fostered trust and belonging. However, logistical barriers-including transportation costs, time constraints, and fear of HIV disclosure-limited consistent engagement. Addressing these barriers and incorporating digital health tools may improve accessibility and sustainability. Overall, HIV/AIDS Self-Management Education Program-Thai shows promise as a feasible, community-based model for HIV self-management tailored to the needs of Thai MSM.
Strengthening Nursing Research Capacity to End the HIV Epidemic: Qualitative Insights of the Mid-Atlantic Center for AIDS Research Nursing Initiative Symposium
Alexander KA, Meanley S, Pitts NA, Starbird LE, Rosen JG, Efron A and Magnus M
Examining High-Intensity Exercise on Cognitive and Vascular Outcomes in Older Adults Living With HIV-A Research Protocol: Design and Rationale From Two Harmonized Clinical Studies in the Deep South
Jones R, Hankes MJ, Vickers JK, Kulik GL, Jankowski CM, Oliveira V, Khuu V, Cook PF, Li P, Vance DE, Ivankova NV, Erlandson KM, Webel AR, Buford TW and Fazeli PL
Older people living with HIV (PLWH), particularly in the Deep South, have poorer health outcomes (cognitive impairment) than seronegative adults, which may be mitigated with regular physical activity and intense exercise. This population engages in low levels of physical activity. The current report describes the rationale and protocol for two harmonious studies "Examining the Effect of High-Intensity Exercise to Attenuate Cognitive Function Limitations and Train Exercise Habits in Older PLWH" (HEALTHCOG) and "A Pilot Trial of High-Intensity to Combat Vascular and Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Adults with HIV" (VASCOG) which are adopting and implementing the methods of a parent randomized clinical trial ("High-Intensity Exercise Study to Attenuate Limitations and Train Habits in Older Adults with HIV" [HEALTH]) to compare 4 months of supervised high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or continuous moderate exercise (CME) on cognitive outcomes and underlying correlates. VASCOG and HEALTHCOG are poised to (a) compare cognitive changes after HIIT versus CME and the vascular impacts; (b) examine safety, feasibility, and acceptability of this approach in the Deep South; and (c) explore predictors of habitual physical activity and association of sustained physical activity with training. Results will have implications for prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment among older PLWH.
"An HIV Free Generation": A Qualitative Inquiry Into Mapping Intersectional Discourses of Preexposure Prophylaxis for Women Among Female Nurses in Rural South Africa
Asabor E and Opara I
South Africa has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world, with women and girls bearing the greatest burden. Although HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective, data on its implementation in rural South Africa remain limited. Our study explores how female nurses in Msinga, South Africa, navigate communal hopes and anxieties regarding PrEP for women. Using an intersectional framework, we conducted semistructured interviews with health care providers and engaged in thematic analysis with a sample of female nurses employed in Msinga, South Africa, to understand their perspectives on PrEP and HIV's impact on their communities. Four major themes emerged: (a) rural poverty's impact on women, (b) the enduring role of traditional medicine, (c) discordance between community knowledge and practice, and (d) communal hopes and PrEP accessibility. Nurses in Msinga, South Africa, highlighted PrEP's potential for women, particularly young girls, emphasizing the need for gender-specific, community-based PrEP implementation to address HIV in rural South African communities.
A Qualitative Study of Ecological Momentary Assessment of Suicide Risk for Persons Living With HIV in Philadelphia, PA, USA: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Ethical Implications
Ballentine E, Feler B, Narine K and Brown L
Persons with HIV are at significantly higher risk for suicide, but little is known about optimal strategies for assessing their risk in real time. Persons with HIV (N = 10) with past month suicidal ideation completed ecological momentary assessment of suicidal ideation for 28 days. Participants indicated that the assessments increased mindfulness, insight, and motivation to change behavior. Some participants expressed fears that frequent assessment could increase risk in other people; however, no participants endorsed experiencing an increase in suicidal thoughts because of the assessment. Participants identified fear of hospitalization and stigma as factors that contributed to discomfort and inaccurate reporting in assessment. These results provide new insight about ecological momentary assessments to increase awareness of risk factors for suicide among participants with HIV. Participants also reported fears about hospitalization and stigma that contributed to underreporting. Future research should explore options to mitigate unrealistic fears to increase their comfort.
Family Health Conversations in HIV Nursing Care: A Qualitative Case Study on Supporting a Closeted Gay Filipino Man in the Philippines
Calaguas NP
This article examines the use of Family Health Conversations (FamHC) in the care of a closeted gay Filipino man recently diagnosed with advanced HIV. In the Philippines, stigma rooted in religious and cultural conservatism presents significant barriers to care for men who have sex with men. Cultural values such as kapwa (shared identity), hiya (shame), and utang na loob (debt of gratitude) shape disclosure decisions and caregiving dynamics. FamHC, a relational nursing intervention, supports open dialogue, emotional validation, and collaborative caregiving. In this case, FamHC facilitated HIV disclosure, improved sibling relationships, and supported treatment adherence and nutritional recovery. The client regained emotional stability, resumed social functioning, and re-established a sense of autonomy. This case highlights how culturally grounded family nursing interventions can reduce stigma, strengthen support systems, and improve clinical and psychosocial outcomes for closeted men who have sex with men living with HIV in collectivist contexts like the Philippines.
Identifying Distinct Symptom Clusters in Older Adults Living With HIV in the United States: A Latent Class Analysis
Yeom S, Kim YM and Lee JE
As the number of older people living with HIV (PLWH) continues to grow, many experience a high symptom burden that negatively affects quality of life. Identifying symptom subgroups can help inform targeted interventions. Our study explored symptom patterns among older PLWH and their associations with self-rated health. Participants (≥50 years) completed surveys on demographics, symptoms, and self-rated health. The latent class analysis identified symptom occurrence-based subgroups, and differences in the number of bothersome symptoms (those reported as causing moderate to severe distress) and self-rated health were examined. Among 152 participants, the most common symptoms were fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety. Three subgroups emerged all high (46.0%), mixed psychosomatic (39.5%), and all low (14.5%). The mixed psychosomatic group reported significantly worse self-rated health compared with the other groups. Psychological symptoms strongly influence health perception in older PLWH. Addressing psychological symptoms alongside physical symptom relief may improve self-rated health in this population.
Dreams Interrupted: A Secondary Data Analysis Unraveling Predictors and Correlates of Insomnia Symptoms and Sleep Distress Among Ghanian Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With HIV
Nwanaji-Enwerem U, Tong GT, Cadri A, Akyirem S, Aidoo-Frimpong G, Thomas P, Aryee E, Clack KT, Jacobson-Lopez D, Wilton L and Nelson LE
Insomnia symptoms, including difficulty sleeping and daytime fatigue, are prevalent among people living with HIV, particularly men who have sex with men. In Ghana, criminalization and marginalization exacerbate these sleep disturbances. Our study analyzed 2017 survey data from 225 men who have sex with men living with HIV using logistic regression and generalized boosted models. Results showed 42.1% reported insomnia symptoms, with 33.8% finding them distressing. Enacted stigma, internalized stigma, same-sex behavior stigma, and perceived stress were key risk factors, whereas a sense of community and basic needs satisfaction were protective. Given these findings, integrating routine sleep assessments into HIV care, incorporating stigma-reduction interventions, and strengthening community-based support programs can improve sleep and overall health. Tailored psychosocial interventions addressing stress and stigma, alongside structural policies fostering inclusion, can enhance engagement in HIV care and mitigate sleep-related health disparities.
Effects of Massage Therapy on Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Pain, Quality of Life, and Immune Aspects in People Living With HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Brilhadori J, Marinho-Junior CD, Correia IM, de Moraes CALC, Gomide EBG, Webel A, Oliveira V, Dos Anjos JRC, Mazzonetto LF, Corrêa Cordeiro JF and Dos Santos AP
Massage therapy has been explored as a complementary intervention for people living with HIV, with potential effects on emotional, physical, and immune system parameters. This systematic review, conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, included a meta-analysis to synthesize data. After removing duplicates and independently screening titles, abstracts, and full texts, 11 experimental studies were selected. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 2), and data analysis was performed with Review Manager 5 (RevMan 5.4). The studies examined various massage techniques, frequencies, and durations, revealing beneficial effects in reducing anxiety, depression, stress, and pain, along with improvements in quality of life. However, the meta-analysis indicated no significant impact of massage therapy on CD4 + T-cell counts. Although these findings highlight the emotional and physical benefits of massage for people living with HIV, further research with larger sample sizes and lower risk of bias is needed to strengthen the evidence.
Beyond Hot Flashes: Centering Lived Experience in Menopause and HIV
Picou BJ, Duroseau B, Albright N and Barr EA
Women living with HIV often experience menopause earlier and with more severe symptoms, yet these are frequently misattributed to HIV, antiretroviral therapy, or aging. Drawing on lived experience, this commentary describes how lack of recognition can erode trust and compromise care. We present the four P's nursing lens (patterns, physiology, psychosocial, partnership) to complement existing guidelines. This framework emphasizes listening, thorough histories, recognition of overlapping symptoms, attention to comorbidities, addressing stigma, and partnering through shared decision making and culturally relevant resources. Centering lived experience highlights the need for compassionate, holistic care that enhances autonomy, builds trust, and makes menopause care a standard part of HIV practice across the lifespan.
Effects of Massage Therapy on Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Pain, Quality of Life, and Immune Aspects in People Living With HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
The Power of Nursing
Treston C
Association of Nurses in AIDS Care Position on Breastfeeding and Chestfeeding: Ensuring Equity, Autonomy, Access, and Respect in HIV-Related Infant Feeding Decisions
Barr EA, Lambert CC, Picou B, Chandler R and Beach R
People with HIV (PWH) have the right to make informed, supported decisions about infant feeding, including breastfeeding or chestfeeding. This position statement from the ANAC affirms the importance of access, equity, autonomy, and respect in lactation counseling and care. Evidence-based clinical guidelines now support shared decision making for PWH on antiretroviral therapy with sustained viral suppression, with studies showing a transmission risk of less than 1% through human milk. Despite this, stigma, inconsistent provider messaging, and punitive threats persist, particularly for marginalized communities. ANAC calls for a harm reduction approach rooted in relational decision making and nonjudgmental, evidence-based support. The statement includes recommendations for education, policy reform, and implementation research to improve care delivery. Nurses and clinicians have a central role in creating inclusive, supportive environments that honor reproductive justice and the lived experiences of families navigating infant feeding with HIV.
"Successful Living" Among Adolescents With HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis
Correlates of Metamemory in Middle-Aged and Older Adults With and Without HIV in the Deep South: A Cross-Sectional Study
Long AR, Vickers J, Delgadillo JD, Haase SR, Vance DE and Fazeli PL
Older people living with HIV (PLWH) are at risk for metacognitive deficits or decreased awareness of one's cognitive abilities. This cross-sectional secondary analysis assessed metacognition and its clinicodemographic correlates among adults. Among 174 PLWH and 105 people living without HIV, we used the Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire (MMQ) and a subjective and objective memory concordance variable yielding accurate/normal, accurate/impaired, underestimators (subjective impairment but no objective impairment), and overestimators (objective impairment but no subjective impairment). Bivariate tests and logistic regressions were conducted. PLWH self-reported worse memory. Using memory strategies was associated with White race, better education, and better cognitive function, whereas depressive symptoms and poorer subjective memory were associated. Race and depression explained memory discordance among PLWH. Executive function explained additional variance in memory concordance. PLWH demonstrate deficits in metacognition. Increasing memory strategy use (particularly among underserved groups) and targeting depression and executive function may be ideal interventions.