Integrating U=U into HIV counseling to boost viral suppression
Official title: Integrating U=U into HIV counseling: a cluster-randomized efficacy trial (INTUIT 2.0)
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11590776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A large study in South Africa uses a patient-friendly counseling app called Undetectable & You to help people understand that undetectable HIV means no transmission and to improve ART adherence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 13, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $415,602 |
| NIH project number | 3R01MH135774-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11590776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults diagnosed with HIV in participating South African clinics who receive HIV counseling and may use or benefit from U=U information.
✕Less likely to help
Patients not receiving HIV counseling or not using digital tools may experience limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project will refine the Undetectable & You app with feedback from people living with HIV and health providers, then test whether using the app in HIV counseling improves viral suppression among people starting or continuing ART. It uses a cluster-randomized design across clinics to see if the app changes counseling practices and patient outcomes in real-world settings. Participants will complete surveys and have their viral load monitored through national lab data to measure impact. The study aims to provide clear, actionable tools for counselors to help patients stay adherent and achieve undetectable HIV levels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the app could become a widely used counseling tool to reduce stigma, improve adherence, and help more people achieve viral suppression.
How similar studies have gone: Past work suggests U=U information and supportive tools can reduce stigma and improve testing and adherence, with this trial building on prior pilot data.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bor, Jacob — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Bor, Jacob
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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.