JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Ending the HIV Epidemic remains a high public health priority, and the state of Florida continues to have high HIV prevalence and incidence.

Objective:

The Florida Cohort study seeks to identify factors associated with the HIV Care Continuum and HIV-related comorbidities, with a focus on potential impact of alcohol consumption.

Methods:

The Florida Cohort Wave 3 enrolled persons with HIV aged 18+ from nine clinical, case management, and community settings across Florida from 2020 to 2023. All participants completed a baseline questionnaire, and most completed additional questionnaires at baseline and approximately one year after baseline. Data on HIV care and treatment, mental health, substance use, stigma, and technology were collected on the baseline questionnaire. Additional questionnaires covered alcohol use, gender identity, COVID-19, pets, stigma and discrimination, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) preferences. Questionnaire data were securely linked to HIV Care Continuum variables from Florida’s state HIV monitoring system.

Results:

Overall, the study enrolled 836 PWH (56% non-Hispanic Black, 16% Hispanic, 57% assigned male at birth, and 58% aged 50+). Most (97%) participants were linked to the state HIV reporting system and will be followed for up to five years to monitor HIV outcomes. Thirty-one participants completed the gender identity questionnaire, 230 completed the alcohol questionnaire, 287 completed the COVID-19 questionnaire, 221 completed the pet questionnaire, 461 complete the stigma and discrimination questionnaire, and 210 completed the ART preference questionnaire.

Conclusions:

The study provides opportunities to monitor changes in HIV-related outcomes as well as relevant attitudes, behaviors, and healthcare preferences, but has some limitations in terms of representativeness and tracking of longitudinal outcomes.