PrEP & Soccer for HIV Prevention
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate how effectively a program called PrEP & Soccer helps men learn about and start using PrEP, a medication that can prevent HIV. PrEP & Soccer combines personalized support at select pharmacies with soccer-related activities to make learning about HIV prevention more engaging. The trial will compare this approach to regular health information provided at other pharmacies. Men who might be suitable for this trial include those who have had sex without a condom with multiple partners, have a history of certain sexually transmitted infections, or have shared injection drug equipment. Participants should not have used PrEP in the last six months.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to engage in innovative prevention strategies and contribute to important research in HIV prevention.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Studies have shown that using soccer as part of a health program is generally safe. In one study, participants in a soccer-based program did not report any major safety issues. Another study found that combining soccer with job training was very engaging and helped reduce substance abuse, indicating it was well-received. While these programs mainly focused on changing behaviors and did not report any negative effects, they do not directly prove the safety of the specific "PrEP & Soccer" treatment. However, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication already approved by the FDA for preventing HIV, and its safety is well-documented. This suggests that the components of the intervention are likely safe and well-tolerated.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using PrEP combined with soccer as a new approach to HIV prevention. Unlike traditional methods that mainly rely on medications or educational brochures, this approach integrates personalized PrEP navigation with engaging, community-focused activities like soccer. This combination not only aims to enhance adherence to PrEP medication but also leverages the social and motivational aspects of sports to encourage healthier behaviors. By making HIV prevention more interactive and supportive, researchers hope to increase PrEP uptake and retention, especially in communities that might not fully engage with standard health information.
What evidence suggests that the PrEP & Soccer intervention could be effective for HIV prevention?
Research shows that using soccer as part of an HIV prevention strategy can be effective. One study found that participants in soccer programs felt more confident about preventing HIV. This confidence, known as "self-efficacy," is crucial because it encourages protective actions. Another study demonstrated that participants were more likely to get tested and receive counseling for HIV due to strong bonds formed between coaches and players. Reviews of multiple studies also support the success of sports-based HIV prevention programs. In this trial, the "PrEP & Soccer" intervention will combine soccer with education about PrEP (a medication to prevent HIV), which could be a promising way to increase awareness and involvement.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mariano R Kanamori, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Miami
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for men who could benefit from increased knowledge and access to PrEP, a medication that helps prevent HIV. The study will take place at CVS Health pharmacy locations. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided, but typically participants would need to be at risk of HIV infection.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Pharmacies assigned to 'PrEP & Soccer' group receive personalized PrEP navigation support
Control
Pharmacies assigned to the control group receive a brochure describing services offered by CVS Health
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for PrEP knowledge and appointment attendance
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PrEP & Soccer
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Miami
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Collaborator