Factors associated with viral suppression among HIV-positive Kenyan gay and bisexual men who have sex with men

Abstract

The UNAIDS 90-90-90 target has prioritized achieving high rates of viral suppression. We identified factors associated with viral suppression among HIV-positive gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in Kisumu, Kenya. HIV-positive participants in the Anza Mapema study were offered antiretroviral therapy (ART) regardless of CD4 count. HIV viral load was assessed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Viral suppression was defined as <1,000 copies/mL. Sociodemographic, sexual behaviors, and psychosocial characteristics were assessed via audio computer-assisted self interview. We used generalized estimating equations to estimate the associations between baseline and time-dependent predictors and viral suppression at 6 and 12 months. Seventy-five HIV-positive men were enrolled in the Anza Mapema study, of which 63 had at least one viral load measured during follow-up. Among 52 men with a viral load measure at month 6, 37 (71%) were on ART and virally suppressed. Among 59 men with a viral load measure at month 12, 37 (63%) were on ART and virally suppressed. In the final multivariable model, men who reported receptive or versatile sexual position during anal intercourse with a male partner had reduced odds of viral suppression (aOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.08–0.50). Greater levels of coping self-efficacy were associated with increased odds of viral suppression (aOR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.03–1.16). Despite extensive initiation, retention, and adherence support, the rate of viral suppression in this population did not meet the UNAIDS 90-90-90 target (81% for individuals aware of their HIV status). Pervasive stigma against male-male sex, especially men who practice receptive anal sex, may underlie our findings, which highlight the need for advocacy and stigma reduction efforts. Because coping self-efficacy was a protective factor, efforts to promote resilience in addition to healthy sexual identity development may lead to improved care outcomes among GBMSM in this area.