Improving HIV prevention for rural people who inject drugs

Adapting a Network-Oriented HIV Prevention Intervention for Rural People Who Inject Drugs (PWID)

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11076834

This study looks at how social connections and access to clean needles and treatment for opioid use disorder can influence the risk of HIV among people who inject drugs in rural areas, with the goal of creating better support and solutions for their specific needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076834 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how social networks and various factors like access to sterile injection equipment and medications for opioid use disorder affect HIV risk behaviors among rural people who inject drugs (PWID). By examining the interactions between these factors and their impact on HIV transmission, the study aims to develop tailored interventions that address the unique challenges faced by PWID in rural areas. The approach includes analyzing the social dynamics within PWID communities to understand how these relationships influence health behaviors and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are rural individuals who inject drugs and are at risk for HIV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who do not inject drugs or those living in urban areas may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective HIV prevention strategies specifically designed for rural PWID, ultimately reducing HIV transmission rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous urban studies have shown success with network-oriented interventions that effectively change high-risk behaviors, suggesting potential for similar outcomes in rural settings.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.