Improving HIV prevention for African women through integrated testing.
Integrated Female Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing for HIV Epidemic Control through PrEP: The IN-STEP study
This study is looking to help African women stay healthy by adding tests for treatable sexually transmitted infections to current HIV prevention programs, so they can get the right support and medication to lower their chances of getting HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055412 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance HIV prevention efforts for African women by integrating testing for curable sexually transmitted infections (cSTIs) into existing HIV programs. The study will identify women at high risk for HIV acquisition and engage them in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) services, which are crucial for reducing new infections. By using a combination of self-reported risk screening tools and cSTI diagnostic testing, the research seeks to improve the identification of at-risk individuals and ensure they receive appropriate preventive care. The approach focuses on addressing the unique challenges faced by African women, particularly those in relationships with high-risk male partners.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African women who are at high risk for HIV acquisition, particularly those with partners who may have higher risk factors.
Not a fit: Patients who are not African women or those who do not have risk factors for HIV acquisition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the rate of new HIV infections among African women by improving access to effective prevention methods.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating STI testing into HIV prevention programs can improve outcomes, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grabowski, Mary Kathryn — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Grabowski, Mary Kathryn
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.