Improving HIV care for people who inject drugs by addressing stigma
Stigma-Treatment Enhanced Incentivized Directly Observed Therapy for People with HIV who Inject Drugs
This study is looking to help people who inject drugs stick to their HIV treatment by using a friendly app that combines watching videos and talking about the feelings of shame or stigma they might face, to make it easier for them to stay engaged in their care and keep their health on track.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10668323 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance HIV treatment adherence among people who inject drugs (PWID) by combining directly observed therapy (DOT) with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focused on stigma. The approach involves using an app to deliver video-based interventions that address internalized and anticipated stigma related to substance use and HIV. By optimizing these combined strategies, the research seeks to improve long-term engagement in HIV care and maintain viral suppression. Participants will be involved in assessing the feasibility and acceptability of this innovative intervention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who inject drugs and are living with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who do not inject drugs or are not living with HIV may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved HIV treatment adherence and reduced transmission rates among people who inject drugs.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that incentive-based interventions and cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective, but this specific combination is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'cleirigh, Conall Michael — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: O'cleirigh, Conall Michael
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.