Peer Navigation for HIV-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma in Kenya: The Power of the Survivor's Voice

Peer Navigation for HIV-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma in Kenya: The Power of the Survivor's Voice

PURPOSESub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate share of the global burden of HIV- associated Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), with high morbidity and mortality rates influenced by stigma, delayed diagnosis, and limited access to care. This study examines Peer Navigation, through both personal and cli...

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Main Authors: Fredrick Shiravika, Alexis G. Strahan, Morvarid Zehtab, Linda Chemtai, Celestine Lagat, Emily Mulanda, Sigrid M. Collier, Elyne Rotich, Toby Maurer, Jeff Martin, Jesse Opakas, Helen Byakwaga, Aggrey Semeere, Samson Kiprono, Esther E. Freeman
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: American Society of Clinical Oncology 2025-04-01
Series:JCO Global Oncology
Online Access:https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/GO-24-00494
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Summary:PURPOSESub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate share of the global burden of HIV- associated Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), with high morbidity and mortality rates influenced by stigma, delayed diagnosis, and limited access to care. This study examines Peer Navigation, through both personal and clinical perspectives, as a potential intervention to improve outcomes for those living with KS in western Kenya.Patients AND MethodsThis study centers on the lived experience of one KS survivor who became a Peer Navigator in western Kenya. The narrative captures his journey from diagnosis to treatment and the subsequent impact of guiding others through their healthcare journey as a Peer Navigator.RESULTSBetween October 2021 and July 2024, the Peer Navigator provided support to 77 patients. These interactions led to improvements in patient knowledge, reduced feelings of social isolation, renewed hope for recovery, and increased confidence in treatment options.CONCLUSIONPeer Navigation plays a crucial role in improving outcomes for patients living with HIV- associated KS. By integrating the survivor's voice, this model of care delivery provides invaluable emotional and social support, fostering improved patient-reported outcomes and encouraging treatment adherence, thereby offering a transformative model for care delivery.
ISSN:2687-8941

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