Improving access to HIV prevention for young women selling sex in Zimbabwe
Pharmacy-based PrEP for Young Women who Sell Sex in Zimbabwe
This study is working to make it easier for young women who sell sex in Zimbabwe to get and keep using PrEP, a medication that helps prevent HIV, by providing them with personalized support to overcome challenges like stigma and lack of resources.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Centre/sexual Hlth/hiv Aid Res/zimbabwe NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Harare, Zimbabwe) |
| Project ID | NIH-10704134 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for young women who sell sex in Zimbabwe, a group at high risk for HIV infection. The project aims to develop and evaluate a pharmacy-based intervention that addresses barriers to PrEP continuation, such as stigma and lack of support. By leveraging psychosocial support and behavioral economics, the study seeks to improve the uptake and sustained use of PrEP among these women. Participants will receive tailored support to help them navigate challenges related to accessing and adhering to PrEP.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young women aged 21 and older who are engaged in sex work in Zimbabwe.
Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in sex work or are outside the age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce HIV incidence among young women who sell sex in Zimbabwe.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that pharmacy-based interventions can be effective in increasing PrEP uptake and adherence among high-risk populations.
Where this research is happening
Harare, Zimbabwe
- Centre/sexual Hlth/hiv Aid Res/zimbabwe — Harare, Zimbabwe (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sibanda, Euphemia Lindelwe — Centre/sexual Hlth/hiv Aid Res/zimbabwe
- Study coordinator: Sibanda, Euphemia Lindelwe
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.