Improving PrEP access and daily use for men who sell sex
Efficacy of a PrEP uptake & Adherence Intervention among male sex workers using a 2-stage randomization design
This project offers a tailored program to help men who sell sex start PrEP and keep taking it every day.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080378 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, staff will help you connect with local PrEP clinics using strength-based, motivational sessions that focus on your values and goals. You will also get problem-solving, adherence-focused counseling based on cognitive-behavioral techniques and personalized daily text reminders. The program was developed with input from male sex workers and builds on earlier pilot work. The trial uses a two-stage randomization design so participants may be re-randomized to different levels of support depending on how well the first approach works.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are HIV-negative men who exchange sex for money, goods, drugs, or other items of value and who are eligible for PrEP.
Not a fit: People who are HIV-positive, not at risk through sex with men, unwilling to use PrEP, or unable to access participating clinics or a phone for texts are unlikely to benefit from enrolling.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could increase PrEP starts and sustained daily use, lowering participants' risk of HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier pilot work and other programs combining case management, counseling, and text reminders have shown promise, but this larger randomized test is needed to confirm effectiveness.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Biello, Katie Brooks — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Biello, Katie Brooks
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.