Exploring how social networks affect treatment retention and medication adherence for people who inject drugs in Tanzania
Understanding the role of social networks in methadone maintenance treatment retention and antiretroviral therapy adherence among people who inject drugs in Tanzania
This study looks at how friends and social connections can help people who use drugs in Tanzania stick to their methadone treatment and take their HIV medications regularly, with the goal of finding better ways to support their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10651804 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social networks on the retention of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Tanzania. By conducting in-depth interviews and analyzing social network data, the study aims to understand how personal connections can support individuals in staying in treatment and following their medication regimens. The findings could lead to the development of targeted interventions that leverage social relationships to improve health outcomes for PWID. This approach is particularly important in regions like Dar es Salaam, where HIV rates are high among this population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who inject drugs and are currently seeking or receiving methadone maintenance treatment in Tanzania.
Not a fit: Patients who do not inject drugs or are not involved in methadone maintenance treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance treatment retention and medication adherence among PWID, ultimately improving their health outcomes and reducing HIV transmission.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social network interventions can effectively improve health outcomes in similar populations, indicating a promising approach for this study.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saleem, Haneefa Tasleem — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Saleem, Haneefa Tasleem
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.