A mobile game to help young people stick to their HIV prevention medication
A Multisite Randomized Trial of Viral Combat: A Mobile Gaming App to Improve Adherence to PrEP
This study tests a mobile game called Viral Combat to see if it helps young people aged 15-34 stick to their HIV prevention medication better than a different game.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 34 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Rhode Island Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 2 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05762705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the mobile game Viral Combat to improve adherence to PrEP among participants aged 15-34 in clinical settings across New England and Mississippi. It involves formative evaluation interviews with healthcare workers, clinic administrators, and patients to adapt the game for diverse populations. The effectiveness of the game will be tested in a randomized controlled trial comparing it to a non-PrEP related game, measuring both biological and behavioral outcomes. A summative evaluation will also assess the implementation context to inform future dissemination of the intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 15-34 who have recently initiated or re-initiated PrEP and are HIV negative.
Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age range of 15-34 or who are not currently receiving PrEP will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance medication adherence among young individuals at risk for HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using gamification to improve health outcomes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 15-34 years old * English speaking * Initiated PrEP in the last 30 days or re-initiated PrEP after not taking PrEP for at least 1 month * HIV negative as per clinician and clinical record * Able to give consent/assent and not impaired by cognitive or medical limitations as per clinical assessment. Exclusion Criteria: * None
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts and 2 other locations
- Boston Medical Center — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
- University of Mississippi Medical Center — Jackson, Mississippi, United States (Recruiting)
- Lifespan (The Miriam Hospital and Rhode Island Hospital) — Providence, Rhode Island, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Laura Whiteley, MD
- Email: laura_whiteley@brown.edu
- Phone: (401)-455-6375
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.