An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
Official title: An Integrative mHealth Program to Prevent the SAVA (Substance Abuse, Violence, and HIV/AIDS) Syndemic and Mental Health Problems among Female Sex Workers in Kenya
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11625516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $40,000 |
| NIH project number | 3R21TW013507-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11625516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are female sex workers in Kenya who use substances, have experienced violence, or are at risk for HIV and depression, and who are comfortable using mobile health tools.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals not using mobile technology or not experiencing SAVA-related risks may derive less direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project develops and tests an mHealth solution called Sisi Ni Nguvu (SNN) for female sex workers in Kenya. It combines CBT-based group activities, an online dashboard with resources, and a moderated discussion forum to build support and shelter from risk factors. The team works with local communities and stakeholders to design the app with input from the target population, then runs an initial small pilot to check safety and usability. The goal is to prevent the SAVA syndemic and improve mental health in a group that experiences high stigma and health challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce substance use, violence exposure, HIV risk, and depression among female sex workers in Kenya, improving overall well-being and access to services.
How similar studies have gone: Past mHealth and community-based interventions show promise for similar populations, but this exact combination in this setting is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Katie M — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Katie M
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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.