Improving HIV testing and care for men using U=U messaging
Improving HIV Testing, Linkage, and Retention in Care for Men Through U=U Messaging
NA · Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation · NCT05602376
This study is testing if using U=U messaging can help more men in South Africa get tested for HIV, start treatment, and stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 3642 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years and up |
| Sex | Male |
| Sponsor | Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (East London, Eastern Cape and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05602376 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of U=U messaging and counseling to address gaps in the HIV care cascade for men in South Africa. It aims to increase HIV testing uptake, encourage initiation of antiretroviral treatment (ART), and improve retention in care and viral suppression among men living with HIV. The study will utilize a multi-method evaluation to inform future implementation of U=U messaging interventions. By focusing on the unique barriers faced by men, the study seeks to enhance their health outcomes and contribute to the global goals for HIV treatment and prevention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are cis-gender men aged 15 years and older who are either newly initiating ART or re-initiating after being lost to care.
Not a fit: Patients who are not men or those who are not initiating or re-initiating ART may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve HIV testing rates and treatment adherence among men, ultimately reducing HIV transmission.
How similar studies have performed: While there is growing knowledge of U=U messaging in Western countries, this study is among the first to test its impact in sub-Saharan Africa, making it a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: AIM 1: 1. male 2. aged ≥15 years 3. present a study issued invitation card to site receptionist 4. ability to provide informed consent. AIM 2: 1. cis-gender men 2. aged ≥15 years 3. newly initiating ART (i.e., treatment naïve) or re-initiating ART after 6 months of being lost-to-care 4. live in Buffalo City or Cape Town Metro Health Districts 5. provide written informed consent
Where this trial is running
East London, Eastern Cape and 1 other locations
- Buffalo City Metro — East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa (RECRUITING)
- Cape Town Metro — Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew Medina-Marino, PhD — Desmond Tutu Health Foundation
- Study coordinator: Andrew Medina-Marino, PhD
- Email: Andrew.Marino@hiv-research.org.za
- Phone: +27 87 821 1109
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.
Conditions: HIV Infections, Men, Treatment Adherence, HIV, HIV testing, U=U, Viral suppression, Treatment as Prevention