This study applies Social Cognitive Theory to develop behavioral interventions promoting PrEP adherence. It seeks to adapt and test the enhanced HMP app for feasibility and acceptability among Black adolescents and young adults (AYAs) and adult supports.
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in preventing HIV infections, reducing the risk by over 90%. However, adherence among AYAs remains suboptimal, with only 34% maintaining adherence at 48 weeks. Studies suggest that adult support can improve adherence in pediatric HIV treatment, but this approach has not been systematically evaluated for PrEP use in AYAs. Prior research indicates that Black AYAs and their families are open to incorporating adult support for PrEP adherence. Given the success of mobile health (mHealth) interventions in promoting sexual health, this study aims to enhance the HealthMPowerment (HMP) app-an existing mHealth platform designed for HIV prevention-to facilitate dyadic communication between Black AYAs and trusted adult support persons. The study addresses the high rates of HIV among Black adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in Alabama, where AYAs (ages 13-24) account for 31% of new HIV diagnoses, with Black gay and bisexual males, transgender individuals, and heterosexual young women being disproportionately affected. Nearly half of new infections occur in rural areas. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative prioritizes Alabama as a geographic hotspot, emphasizing the need for patient-centered interventions to reduce HIV incidence.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
10
A mobile health app designed to facilitate increased PrEP use and adherence among AYAs
University of Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama, United States
Acceptability/Usability
The study evaluates an app's impact through post-intervention interviews, focusing on user experience, ethical concerns, and future usage intentions. It explores burden, satisfaction, attitudes, and how the app influences communication and adherence. Sekhon's Theoretical Framework of Acceptability will be utilized to measure this outcome.
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months
Feasibility: Communication
Communication between adolescents and young adults (AYA) and support person (i.e., Experience using chat features; Experience using forums). A modified version of Structured Assessment of FEasibility (SAFE) will be utilized to measure this outcome.
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months
Medication Adherence Tracker
This will be measured by analyzing the percent of dates with data entered into the medication tracker and correlating that data with reasons why participants did not take their medication (when applicable)
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months
Data Usage
This will be measured by comparing the amount of time (minutes) spent using distinct features of the app (e.g. forums, educational resources, avatars, side effect trackers, chat features)
Time frame: 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.