Improving HIV prevention for women who use drugs in Tanzania

Optimizing PrEP Engagement Among Women Who Use Drugs in Tanzania

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10890024

This study is all about helping women in Tanzania who use heroin to better access and stick with HIV prevention methods like PrEP, especially by providing support for those dealing with mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10890024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the engagement of women who use drugs, particularly heroin, in HIV prevention strategies like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Tanzania. It recognizes that mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can hinder these women's ability to access and adhere to PrEP. The study will adapt motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques for use by trained paraprofessionals to support these women in overcoming barriers to PrEP engagement. By tailoring these interventions to the specific needs of this vulnerable population, the research aims to improve their health outcomes significantly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women over 21 years old who use drugs and are at risk of HIV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use drugs or are not at risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to increased PrEP uptake and better health outcomes for women who use drugs in Tanzania, ultimately reducing the incidence of HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy to improve health outcomes in similar populations, indicating a promising approach.

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 VirusAffective DisordersAnxiety Disorders
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.