COVID-19 Testing and the Impact of the Pandemic on the Miami Adult Studies on HIV Cohort

Socioeconomic disadvantages and potential immunocompromise raise particular concerns for people living with HIV (PLWH) and other marginalized communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we explored COVID-19 testing and the impact of the pandemic among participants from the Miami Adult Studies on HIV (MASH) Cohort, predominantly comprised of low-income minorities living with and without HIV. Between July-August, 2020, a telephone survey was administered to 299 MASH participants to assess COVID-19 testing, prevention behaviors, and psychosocial stressors. Healthcare utilization, antiretroviral adherence, food insecurity, and substance use during the pandemic were compared to their last cohort visit (7.8±2.9 months earlier). Half of surveyed participants had been tested for COVID-19, 8 had tested positive, 2 had been hospitalized. PLWH (n=183) were 42% times less likely than uninfected participants to have been tested. However, after adjustment for age, employment, COVID-19 symptoms, mental healthcare, and substance use, the effect of HIV status was no longer significant. PLWH were more likely to have seen a healthcare provider, use face coverings, and avoid public transportation, and less likely to be food insecure and drink hazardously. There were significant changes in substance use patterns during the pandemic as compared to before. PLWH, compared to their HIV-uninfected peers, were more likely to engage in preventive measures and healthcare during the pandemic, potentially reducing their exposure to COVID-19. There were no reported changes in antiretroviral adherence or healthcare utilization, but there were changes in substance use; these need to be monitored as this crisis progresses.