Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: Mar 25, 2020
Date Accepted: Jul 14, 2020
A Mobile Gaming Intervention for Persons on Pre-exposure Prophylaxis: Protocol for Intervention Development and Randomized Controlled Trial
ABSTRACT
Background:
In the United States, young minority men who have sex with men (MSM) are most likely to become infected with HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an efficacious and promising prevention strategy. However, PrEP’s safety and effectiveness can be greatly compromised by sub-optimal adherence to treatment. To maximize the positive impact of PrEP, it is necessary to combine its prescription with cost-effective, behavioral interventions, that promote adherence and decrease HIV risk behaviors. In this project, we will develop a theoretically-informed app/gaming intervention to engage young MSM in learning information, practicing behaviors and improving motivation for HIV preventative behaviors and PrEP adherence.
Objective:
The goal of this project is to develop and test a cutting edge, engaging, and entertaining app/gaming intervention on improving adherence to PrEP and building HIV prevention knowledge, skills, and behavior.
Methods:
This study will be conducted in two phases. In the developmental phase, we will conduct qualitative interviews with young MSM to guide the development of the gaming intervention (n=20). In the randomized controlled trial (RCT), we will test the preliminary efficacy of the gaming intervention compared to a comparison condition (n=60) among young MSM. Subjects will be recruited from the University of Mississippi Medical Center HIV/STI testing clinics.
Results:
IRB approval was received in February 2015. Qualitative interviews occurred between June to October 2015. Recruitment for the RCT phase was from May 2017 to May 2019. Collection of follow-up data recently concluded, so analysis of data is ongoing.
Conclusions:
This app/gaming intervention aims to improve PrEP adherence and HIV preventative behaviors in young MSM. Engaging young MSM in learning information, practicing behaviors and improving motivation for increased adherence to PrEP has the potential to decrease HIV seroconversion. It is important to develop interventions that are enjoyable, engaging and easily incorporated into clinical settings. Clinical Trial: ClinicalTrials.gov RCT02611362
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