Creating a decision tool to help prevent anal cancer in specific communities
Development and user testing of a culturally targeted anal cancer prevention decision tool
This study is creating a helpful tool to encourage men who have sex with men and transgender women to get the HPV vaccine, which can help prevent anal cancer, by using existing HIV prevention services to make it easier for them to access information and support.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10842367 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a decision-making tool aimed at increasing awareness and uptake of HPV vaccination among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW), who are at a higher risk for anal cancer. The project will utilize existing HIV prevention services, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), to reach these populations effectively. By engaging both patients and healthcare providers, the research aims to create culturally relevant content that supports informed choices about anal cancer prevention. The approach includes mixed methods and perceptual mapping to ensure the tool meets the needs of diverse communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include MSM and TGW who are eligible for PrEP and are at increased risk for anal cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as MSM or TGW, or those who are not eligible for PrEP, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of anal cancer among MSM and TGW by increasing HPV vaccination rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted health communication strategies can effectively increase vaccination rates in at-risk populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Temple Univ of the Commonwealth — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wheldon, Christopher W. — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Wheldon, Christopher W.
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.