Using text messages to improve HIV testing among LGBTQ+ teens
Effectiveness and implementation of text messaging to improve HIV testing in sexual and gender minority adolescents
This study is looking to help young people aged 13-18 who identify as sexual minorities or are transgender and gender diverse by using a fun text messaging program called G2G to encourage them to get tested for HIV and provide them with helpful information about prevention.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017814 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance HIV testing rates among adolescent sexual minority males, transgender girls, and gender diverse teens aged 13-18 by utilizing a text messaging program. The program, called G2G, will provide tailored HIV prevention information and motivation through engaging text messages. By updating the content to include the latest HIV prevention science and making it inclusive for transgender and gender diverse individuals, the study seeks to determine if this approach can significantly increase the likelihood of these adolescents getting tested for HIV. Participants will be monitored for their testing outcomes, including validated proof of testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 13-18 who identify as sexual minority males, transgender girls, or gender diverse individuals.
Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age range of 13-18 or do not identify as part of the sexual and gender minority communities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to increased HIV testing rates among vulnerable adolescent populations, ultimately reducing transmission rates and improving health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with text messaging interventions in increasing HIV testing rates among similar populations, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macapagal, Kathryn Rose — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Macapagal, Kathryn Rose
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.