Improving adherence to HIV prevention medication for at-risk men
Evaluation of Life-Steps to Enhance Adherence and Engagement in PrEP Care
This study is looking to help gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men stay on their HIV prevention medication, PrEP, by using a friendly support program called Life-Steps that offers help based on what each person needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami Coral Gables NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10683418 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the adherence and engagement of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) in taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV. It utilizes a cognitive-behavioral therapy-based intervention called Life-Steps, which has been adapted specifically for MSM facing various psychosocial challenges. The study aims to test the effectiveness of a stepped-care approach, where the least intensive intervention is provided first, and additional support is offered as needed to ensure participants remain on PrEP. By addressing barriers to adherence, the research seeks to improve health outcomes for those at high risk of HIV acquisition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, particularly those facing psychosocial challenges that hinder their ability to adhere to PrEP.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at high risk for HIV acquisition or those who do not identify as MSM may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the rates of adherence to PrEP among at-risk MSM, thereby reducing HIV transmission.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with similar cognitive-behavioral interventions in improving adherence to HIV treatment and prevention methods.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami Coral Gables — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Safren, Steven a — University of Miami Coral Gables
- Study coordinator: Safren, Steven a
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.