A mobile app to help rural gay and bisexual men get tested for HIV and STIs
Evaluating the effectiveness of a mobile HIV prevention app to increase HIV and STI testing and PrEP initiation among rural men who have sex with men
This study is testing a mobile app called Combine to help gay and bisexual men in rural southern areas get more HIV and STI tests by making it easier to find testing options and learn about prevention, all while addressing the challenges they face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078249 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on increasing HIV and STI testing among gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (GBMSM) in rural areas of the southern United States. It utilizes a mobile app called Combine, which has been tailored to address the unique challenges faced by this population, such as stigma and limited access to healthcare. The app provides self-assessments, testing plans, and information about PrEP, along with locators for testing providers. The effectiveness of the app will be evaluated through a randomized controlled trial over a 24-month period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are rural gay and bisexual men who are at risk for HIV and STIs and may benefit from increased testing and preventive services.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as gay or bisexual men or those who are not at risk for HIV and STIs may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to HIV and STI testing and preventive services for rural gay and bisexual men.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with app-based interventions for HIV prevention in urban settings, but this approach is novel for rural populations.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jones, Jeb — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jones, Jeb
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.