Reducing stigma related to HIV and drug use among families of drug users
Adapting evidence-based stigma reduction interventions to address HIV and drug use stigma among family members of people who use drugs
This study is working to help families in Tanzania better understand and support their loved ones who use drugs, so they can reduce stigma and improve health and treatment options for those individuals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Muhimbili University/ Allied Hlth Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania U Rep) |
| Project ID | NIH-10999500 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to adapt existing interventions that have successfully reduced stigma in healthcare settings to target family members of people who use drugs (PWUD) in Tanzania. By addressing the stigma that families hold towards PWUD, the project seeks to improve the support systems available for these individuals, which is crucial for their engagement in HIV prevention and treatment. The approach involves creating tailored educational programs and support mechanisms that can help families understand and support their loved ones better. The ultimate goal is to enhance the overall health and quality of life for PWUD by fostering a more supportive family environment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are family members of individuals who use drugs and are affected by HIV stigma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have family members involved in their care or who are not affected by stigma related to drug use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental and physical health outcomes for people who use drugs by reducing stigma and enhancing family support.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful interventions targeting stigma in healthcare settings, this approach focusing on family members is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania U Rep
- Muhimbili University/ Allied Hlth Scis — Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania U Rep (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mlunde, Linda Beatrice — Muhimbili University/ Allied Hlth Scis
- Study coordinator: Mlunde, Linda Beatrice
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.