Increasing PrEP Persistence for HIV Prevention
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention modality that requires individuals to take a daily tablet to prevent themselves acquiring HIV. In South Africa while this is freely available in the public sector, persistence (that is continuation after initiation) is low amongst vulnerable populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM).This study is a feasibility and acceptability study of a behavioral economics informed intervention to improve persistence amongst MSM newly initiating PrEP in South Africa. The goal of this study is to show that this approach is possible in a routine setting and gather the necessary data for a fully powered effectiveness trial.Study participants will complete a baseline questionnaire and then be randomized to either receive standard of care (control) or to receive the intervention. The intervention package consists of evidence informed reminders, commitment pledges and planning prompts. The intervention package aims to address present bias, optimism bias and salience. The intervention is delivered and the enrollment visit and then through mobile phone reminders / text messages. There is no further in person interaction after the initial interaction. Participants may be contacted for a telephonic enplane questionnaire. Outcome data is obtained from passive followup through routine medical record review with the primary end point being persistence at 3 months.
Research Team
Lawrence C Long, PhD MCom
Principal Investigator
Boston University School of Public Health,Global Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for men who have sex with men (MSM) in South Africa, who are starting on PrEP to prevent HIV. Participants must be willing to receive text messages and complete questionnaires. There's no detailed exclusion criteria provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Enrollment and Intervention
Participants complete a baseline questionnaire and are randomized to receive either standard care or a behavioral economics informed intervention. The intervention includes reminders, commitment pledges, and planning prompts delivered at the enrollment visit and through mobile phone reminders.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for PrEP persistence through routine medical record review, with primary endpoints at 3, 6, and 12 months.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- PrEP Persistence
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator