Improving HIV prevention for men who have sex with men using behavioral economics

Using behavioral economics to improve the uptake of and persistence on pre-exposure prophylaxis in men who have sex with men to prevent HIV infection

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10907561

This study is all about finding better ways to help men who have sex with men take and stick with PrEP, a medication that helps prevent HIV, by using smart strategies to make healthy choices easier and more appealing.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10907561 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the uptake and continued use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among men who have sex with men (MSM) to prevent HIV infection. It employs behavioral economics principles to understand and influence health-related decision-making and behaviors. The project aims to develop effective interventions that encourage optimal health behaviors and improve adherence to PrEP. By training a researcher in this field, the study seeks to create impactful health delivery programs tailored to the needs of MSM.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men who have sex with men and are at risk of HIV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of HIV or those who do not identify as men who have sex with men may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of HIV among men who have sex with men by improving their access to and adherence to preventive treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that behavioral economics can effectively improve health behaviors, suggesting a promising approach for this study.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.