Combining behavioral strategies to help smokers with HIV quit in Botswana

Testing the Combination of Behavioral Activation and Problem Solving as a Novel Behavioral Smoking Cessation Intervention for Smokers with HIV in Botswana

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10832051

This study is testing a new way to help people with HIV in Botswana quit smoking by using two supportive methods that encourage healthy activities and tackle feelings of sadness, making it easier for them to stop smoking.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10832051 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to help individuals with HIV in Botswana quit smoking by combining two behavioral therapies: behavioral activation and problem-solving. The study recognizes the unique challenges faced by HIV-positive individuals, such as high rates of depression, and aims to create a smoking cessation program that is feasible and effective in low-resource settings. By focusing on increasing engagement in healthy activities and addressing depressive symptoms, the research seeks to improve smoking cessation rates among this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are HIV-positive individuals living in Botswana who smoke and may also experience depressive symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or are not HIV-positive may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the health outcomes of HIV-positive smokers by providing them with effective tools to quit smoking.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using behavioral activation for smoking cessation, particularly in populations with comorbid conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective in similar contexts.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.