Increasing PrEP initiation among Black gay and bisexual men in Washington, DC

PrEP Initiation and Adherence Among Black SMM: A Social Network-Level Intervention

Not applicable Interventional Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. · NCT05499962

This study is testing new ways to help Black gay and bisexual men in Washington, DC start and stick with PrEP to prevent HIV.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexMale
SponsorUs Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. Academic / other
Locations1 site (Washington, District of Columbia)
Trial IDNCT05499962 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance the initiation and adherence of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among Black gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority men (SMM) in Washington, DC. It involves conducting focus groups to understand the social dynamics and barriers affecting PrEP use, followed by a pilot intervention utilizing social networking strategies to encourage PrEP initiation. The study will recruit participants from various age groups and PrEP use profiles to ensure a comprehensive understanding of their needs and preferences. The intervention will be refined based on participant feedback and will assess the feasibility and acceptance of the approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Black or African American cisgender males aged 18 and above who are gay, bisexual, or have sex with other males and currently use PrEP.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Black or African American, those who identify as female, or those who do not reside in the greater Washington, DC area may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly increase PrEP initiation and adherence among Black SMM, thereby reducing the risk of HIV transmission in this community.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar community-based interventions aimed at increasing PrEP uptake among high-risk populations, indicating a promising approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age of 18 years or above
* Black or African American race
* Cisgender male identity
* Gay, bisexual or a male who has sex with other males
* Residence in the greater Washington, DC area (includes District of Columbia, Prince George's County, MD and Montgomery County, MD)
* Current PrEP use
* Confirmed HIV-negative status.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Being younger than 18 years of age ;
* Cisgender or transgender female identity
* Males having sex with women exclusively
* Being unable to speak or read English
* Reside outside of the defined greater Washington, DC area
* Being unable or unwilling to provide written informed consent
* Being unable to comply with the requirements of the protocol (e.g. persons with mental health conditions, persons who are intoxicated or incoherent for other reasons)
* Being a member of other vulnerable populations: pregnant women, children or wards of the state.

Where this trial is running

Washington, District of Columbia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions HIV
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.