Impact of social network changes on HIV transmission among displaced men in Ukraine

Social network disruption, stigma, and HIV transmission and care dynamics among forcibly displaced MSM in Ukraine

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10920483

This study is looking at how being forced to move affects the friendships and health of men who have sex with men in Ukraine, especially when it comes to HIV, and it aims to help both local and displaced individuals by understanding their unique challenges and needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920483 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how forced displacement affects social networks and HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Ukraine. It focuses on the unique challenges faced by forcibly displaced MSM, including stigma and barriers to accessing HIV care. The study will involve 1,200 participants, including both local and displaced MSM, and will utilize modified respondent-driven sampling to gather data on their social networks and behaviors. Blood samples will also be collected for viral load testing to understand the health impacts of these dynamics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men who have sex with men, particularly those who are forcibly displaced or living in areas with high HIV prevalence in Ukraine.

Not a fit: Patients who are not men who have sex with men or those not affected by displacement may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for HIV prevention and care tailored to the needs of displaced populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing social network dynamics can effectively reduce HIV transmission in similar populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.