Using Network Analysis to Assess the Effects of Trauma, Psychosocial, and Socioeconomic Factors on Health Outcomes Among Black Women Living with HIV.

Abstract

Black women living with HIV (BWLWH) face intersectional adversities impacting their wellbeing. This study utilized network analysis to assess the associations among adversities linked to racism, sexism, HIV stigma, and socioeconomic status (income, housing, education) and determine which adversities predict mental health outcomes, HIV viral load, and medication adherence more consistently among BWLWH. 119 BWLWH aged 18years or older completed self-report measures on sociodemographics, adversity factors, and mental health outcomes. Viral load count was obtained through blood draws, and medication adherence was measured via Wisepill adherence monitoring device. Multiple regression analysis was used to assess if the more central factors in the network also predicted health outcomes more consistently than the less central factors. The four most central factors in the network were income, housing, gendered racial microaggression (GRM) frequency, and GRM appraisal. Multiple regression analysis revealed that GRM frequency, GRM appraisal, and the number of traumas contributed uniquely and were positively associated with both depressive symptoms and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. HIV-related discrimination contributed uniquely and was positively associated with HIV viral load.