Improving HIV prevention for sex workers using a community-based approach

Centering Those Engaged in Transactional Sex: A PrEP Innovation for Getting To Zero

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10888357

This study is all about helping sex workers stay healthy by making it easier for them to use a medication called PrEP that prevents HIV, and it does this by working closely with the community to create a supportive and friendly environment for learning about and using PrEP.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10888357 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing HIV prevention efforts among sex workers by increasing the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It employs a community-empowered approach called Centering Healthcare, which fosters collaboration and interactive learning among participants. By involving sex workers in the design and implementation of the program, the study aims to create a supportive environment that promotes adherence to PrEP. The research will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of this model for educating and navigating PrEP use within this high-risk population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are sex workers who are at high risk for HIV and interested in preventive measures.

Not a fit: Patients who are not engaged in transactional sex or who are not at risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce new HIV infections among sex workers by improving access to and adherence to PrEP.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that community-empowered interventions can effectively reduce HIV risk in similar populations, suggesting a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.