Using a mobile app to reduce risky alcohol use and HIV risk
Evaluation of a Combined Motivational Interviewing and Ecological Momentary Intervention to Reduce Risky Alcohol Use Among Individuals Vulnerable to HIV/AIDS
This study is testing a mobile app that sends real-time messages to help people reduce risky drinking and lower their chances of HIV by encouraging safer choices when they visit certain locations.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 405 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Kentucky Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (New Haven, Connecticut and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05576350 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance an existing intervention called TRAC by integrating ecological momentary interventions (EMI) delivered through a mobile app. The app uses GPS tracking to identify when participants visit locations associated with risky drinking behaviors and sends real-time messages to encourage safer choices. Participants will be randomized into three groups to evaluate the effectiveness of the TRAC-ER intervention, which combines EMI messaging with traditional TRAC strategies. Data will be collected through surveys and breathalyzer readings after participants leave these locations to assess their behaviors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-35 who are at risk for alcohol use disorder and HIV but have not been diagnosed with HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who are actively detoxifying from substances or have severe alcohol use disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce risky alcohol consumption and HIV risk behaviors among young adults.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from related studies have shown promising results, indicating that similar approaches may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * is between the ages of 18-35 at the start of the study * owns a smartphone * has not been diagnosed with HIV * screens positively for at-risk alcohol use (score of 4 or higher on the AUDIT-C, OR report engaging in binge drinking at least once over the past 12 months). * meets criteria for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) OR is identified as being at high risk for HIV (i.e., reports history of using PrEP/PEP, reports unprotected sex, etc.) Exclusion Criteria: * do not speak English * are actively detoxifying from substances and need medical supervision * a score of 20 or greater on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test
Where this trial is running
New Haven, Connecticut and 1 other locations
- Yale University — New Haven, Connecticut, United States (Recruiting)
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, Kentucky, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Carolyn Lauckner, PhD — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Carolyn Lauckner, PhD
- Email: carolyn.lauckner@uky.edu
- Phone: 859-562-3335
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.