Using social media to improve awareness of HIV prevention methods
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) information on social media
This study is looking at how social media can help young adults learn more about PrEP, a medication that can prevent HIV, by creating fun and easy-to-understand messages that tackle common concerns about using it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10752716 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how social media can be utilized to enhance awareness and understanding of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention among young adults. The project aims to analyze existing PrEP-related communications on popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and develop clear, engaging messages that address barriers to PrEP usage. By leveraging the reach of social media, the research seeks to create effective educational content that resonates with young people, ultimately promoting better health outcomes. The study will involve a multidisciplinary team working collaboratively to ensure the messages are scientifically accurate and relevant.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for HIV and are active users of social media.
Not a fit: Patients who are not active on social media or who are not at risk for HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase awareness and usage of PrEP, leading to reduced rates of HIV transmission among young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social media can effectively disseminate health information and improve awareness of health interventions, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Bloomington, United States
- Trustees of Indiana University — Bloomington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walsh-Buhi, Eric Richard — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Walsh-Buhi, Eric Richard
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.