Text messaging to improve HIV testing in LGBTQ+ teens
Effectiveness and Implementation of Text Messaging to Improve Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Testing in Adolescents
This study is testing if sending motivational text messages can encourage LGBTQ+ teens to get tested for HIV more often.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 360 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 19 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Northwestern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT06096519 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a text message-based intervention aimed at increasing HIV testing behaviors among adolescent sexual minority males and transgender and gender diverse teens aged 13-18. Participants will be randomized into either a treatment group receiving motivational and behavioral skills training or a control group receiving only informational content. The study builds on a previous successful intervention, G2G, and aims to modernize and tailor the content to be inclusive of transgender and gender diverse teens. The primary outcome will be measured through self-reported HIV testing and objective evidence such as photos of test results.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are male-identified or male sex at birth adolescents aged 13-18 who have had penetrative sex with male partners and identify as sexual and gender minorities.
Not a fit: Patients who are HIV positive, currently on PrEP, or cisgender females will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly increase HIV testing rates among at-risk adolescents, leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the G2G pilot trial, have shown success in increasing HIV testing rates through similar text-based interventions.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Have penetrative or oral sex in their lifetime * 13-19 years old * reads in English at a 8th grade level * HIV negative or unknown status * own a cell phone with an unlimited MMS plan and plan to have the same number during the study * can provide informed assent, as shown on a capacity to consent assessment * live in the U.S. or territories. Exclusion Criteria: * Previous lifetime testing for HIV or an STI OR no testing since last sexual experience * HIV positive * Currently on PrEP
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine — Chicago, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kathryn Macapagal, PhD
- Email: kathryn.macapagal@northwestern.edu
- Phone: 3125033605
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.