NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving HIV prevention behaviors among young sexual minority men.

Official title: Development of a behavioral economic Intervention to improve HIV-related behaviors among sexual minority men.

Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11009270 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking to help young men who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those aged 18-34, by finding better ways to encourage safe sex practices and sticking to HIV prevention methods, especially when meth use is involved.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Science Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Antonio, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$264,091
NIH project number1R34DA060078-01A1
Project IDNIH-11009270 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are young sexual minority men aged 18-34 who are at risk for HIV and may struggle with adherence to preventive measures.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not sexual minority men or those outside the age range of 18-34 may not receive benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on young sexual minority men, particularly those aged 18-34, who are at a higher risk for HIV. It aims to develop a behavioral economic intervention that addresses issues like PrEP adherence and risky sexual behaviors, particularly in the context of methamphetamine use. The approach includes using techniques like Episodic Future Thinking to help participants make better long-term health decisions. By understanding the psychological factors that influence their choices, the intervention seeks to promote safer sexual practices and improve adherence to preventive measures.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved HIV prevention strategies and better health outcomes for young sexual minority men.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using behavioral economic interventions to improve health-related behaviors, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Hlth Science Center
    San Antonio, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Okafor, Chukwuemeka Nkemakonam — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
  • Study coordinator: Okafor, Chukwuemeka Nkemakonam

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.