Understanding how stigma affects HIV prevention among drug users in Appalachia
Identifying Stigma Reduction Targets in the Context of an Appalachian HIV Outbreak
This study is looking at how negative feelings about drug use make it harder for people who inject drugs in rural Appalachia to get tested for HIV and access prevention programs, and it aims to find ways to make these important health services more available and welcoming for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10670313 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of drug-related stigma on the use of HIV prevention and testing programs among people who inject drugs (PWID) in rural Appalachia. It aims to understand how stigma creates barriers to accessing these critical health services, particularly in areas where confidentiality is hard to maintain. The study will employ a mixed methods approach, including qualitative interviews and the adaptation of a stigma measurement scale, to gather insights from affected individuals. By identifying the specific types and sources of stigma, the research seeks to inform strategies that can improve program uptake and ultimately reduce HIV outbreaks in these communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who inject drugs and live in rural Appalachian communities, particularly those affected by the ongoing HIV outbreaks.
Not a fit: Patients who do not inject drugs or those living outside the Appalachian region may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to HIV prevention and testing services for vulnerable populations, thereby reducing the incidence of HIV in rural areas.
How similar studies have performed: While stigma in healthcare settings has been studied, this specific approach focusing on rural PWID and HIV prevention in Appalachia is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Morgantown, United States
- West Virginia University — Morgantown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pollini, Robin a — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Pollini, Robin a
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.