This study is a mixed-methods pilot designed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of a brief digital micro-intervention aimed at reducing stigma-related barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) engagement among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kazakhstan. Participants will complete baseline and post-intervention surveys and receive structured informational content via Telegram or WhatsApp over approximately 2-3 weeks. The intervention focuses on addressing anticipated stigma, confidentiality concerns, and misinformation that may prevent PWUD from seeking PrEP services. No clinical procedures, medication provision, or biological specimen collection are involved.
The proposed study has three aims: 1. To refine a brief, stigma-informed digital micro-intervention designed to address structural and anticipated barriers to PrEP uptake among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kazakhstan. 2. To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of delivering this intervention through secure digital platforms (e.g., Telegram or WhatsApp). 3. To evaluate preliminary changes in PrEP-related knowledge, perceived stigma- related barriers, and readiness to seek PrEP services following exposure to the intervention.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
40
Intervention will include 6-10 brief modules delivered asynchronously consisting of text-based content with optional simple visuals. There is no requirement for participant response. Messages will avoid explicit labeling referencing HIV or drug use in preview text and be written using neutral language. Participants are allowed to discontinue receipt at any time.
Center for Scientific and Practical Initiatives
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Mean Score Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM)
Acceptability of the intervention will be assessed using the Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM). It has 4-items scored on a 5-point Likert scale summed to achieve a total score. Total score range of 0-20. Higher scores indicate more acceptability.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Mean Score Intervention Appropriateness Measure (IAM)
The Intervention Appropriateness Measure (IAM) is a 4-item, 5-point Likert scale ( 1=Completely Disagree to 5=Completely Agree) used to evaluate the perceived fit, relevance, or compatibility of an intervention or implementation strategy. Total score range 0-20. Higher scores indicate better appropriateness.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Mean Score Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM)
Feasibility of intervention measured using Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM)- a 4-item instrument to assess perceived intervention feasibility. Total score 1-5 with higher scores indicating greater feasibility.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Change in PrEP knowledge
Measured by a structured survey. Total score range 1-10. Higher scores indicate increased knowledge.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Change in perceived stigma-related barriers
Measured by a structured survey. Total score range 8-40. Higher scores indicate more barriers.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Change in readiness to seek PrEP
Measured by Likert scale survey items. Total score range 1-5. Higher scores indicate increased readiness.
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Mean number of clicks or links accessed
Mean number of clicks or links accessed among participants that used the intervention
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
Mean number of messages delivered
Mean number of confirmed messages delivered
Time frame: Baseline and Post intervention (Week 4)
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