Integrated delivery of cancer control interventions for adolescents and young adults living with HIV in Zambia

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Zambia is a global epicenter for HIV with a large number of adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYAHIV). Compared with their uninfected peers, AYAHIV are at increased risk of developing cancer, most frequently Kaposi sarcoma (KS), non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), and cervical cancer (CC). To reduce this premature mortality, evidence-based strategies should be implemented to both diagnose cancers at an earlier stage and help AYAHIV complete recommended cancer treatment. We will use theory-informed multilevel strategies to create the AYAHIV Role-based Responsibilities for Oncology-focused Workforce (ARROW) program to increase uptake of services for early diagnosis and improve compliance with cancer treatment for KS, NHL, and CC. Our overall approach is based on the evidence-based strategy of peer support for engagement and learning. At the individual level, we will address barriers by embedding peer counselors to support AYAHIV. At the provider level, we will create a peer-to-peer learning network to build linkages between those specializing in pediatric and adult HIV treatment and cancer care. At the health care system level, we will bring together health care administrators and Zambian Ministry of Health policy makers to review barriers and to develop and implement collaborative solutions. We will use implementation science methods to evaluate effectiveness, implementation outcomes, and cost-effectiveness of the ARROW program compared with a one-time education campaign by pursuing the following aims: Aim 1. Conduct randomized trials to compare the ARROW program with the one-time education campaign in increasing services received by AYAHIV to facilitate early diagnosis (physical exam for KS and NHL, CC screening, and timely diagnostic testing) and in improving adherence to cancer treatment. Aim 2. Use mixed methods to assess implementation outcomes of the ARROW program compared with one- time education based on acceptability, feasibility, appropriateness, fidelity, and sustainability. Aim 3. Perform economic evaluations to assess cost-effectiveness and return-on-investment scenarios. Successful completion of these aims will yield a set of data-driven strategies that can be scaled up to reduce premature cancer mortality among AYAHIV. To support future implementation efforts, we will generate incremental cost-effectiveness estimates, conduct policy simulations, evaluate implementation outcomes, and assess challenges and facilitators to optimize the ARROW program. The model tested in Zambia can serve as a blueprint for other Sub-Saharan African countries to ensure AYAHIV receive optimal services to facilitate early diagnosis and ensure completion of guideline-recommended treatments. The ARROW program will also provide a framework for implementing expanded services, such as preventive services and survivorship care, to further reduce the burden of cancer AYAHIV face.