Helping men save money to reduce risky sexual behaviors related to HIV
A savings intervention to reduce men's engagement in HIV risk behaviors
This study is looking to help men in Kenya reduce their risk of HIV and STIs by encouraging them to save money instead of spending it on risky behaviors, like transactional sex and drinking, using mobile banking tools.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11070296 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to address the high rates of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in eastern and southern Africa by focusing on men's behaviors. It will implement an innovative savings intervention that encourages high-risk men in Kenya to save money instead of spending it on risky behaviors, such as transactional sex and heavy alcohol use. By leveraging mobile financial services, the project will provide incentives for these men to open local bank accounts and save their disposable income, ultimately aiming to reduce their engagement in activities that increase their risk of HIV/STIs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are high-risk, income-earning men living in Kenya who engage in transactional sex or heavy alcohol use.
Not a fit: Patients who do not reside in Kenya or who do not engage in risky sexual behaviors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the incidence of HIV and STIs among men by promoting healthier financial and sexual behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous interventions targeting women's behaviors in similar contexts have shown promise, but this approach focusing on men is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thirumurthy, Harsha — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Thirumurthy, Harsha
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.