Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: May 18, 2022
Date Accepted: Oct 25, 2022
A mobile health intervention (BUDD) to support men who have sex with men engaging in chemsex: Intervention Mapping Approach
ABSTRACT
Background:
Chemsex refers to the use of drugs for or during sex among men who have sex with men (MSM). Engaging in chemsex has been linked to significant negative impacts on physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. However, there have been no evidence-based support tools that address these harms and the care needs of MSM who engage in chemsex (MWEC).
Objective:
The purpose of this paper is to describe how we developed a mobile health intervention (named ‘Budd’) using the Intervention Mapping Protocol (IMP). Budd aims to support and inform MWEC, and reduce the negative impacts associated with chemsex and encourage more reasoned participation.
Methods:
The IMP consists of six steps to develop, implement, and evaluate evidence-based health interventions. A literature study and in-depth interviews assessed the chemsex health problem, associated health risks and its determinants. Change objectives were selected based on these findings, after which theory-based intervention methods were selected. A first version of the intervention was developed and pilot tested. Adjustments were made based on findings from this study. A separate article will be dedicated to the effectiveness study and implementation of the intervention.
Results:
The Budd app consists of harm reduction information and individual support tools. The information module contains articles on chemsex topics, user testimonials, drug information, a drug combination tool, emergency information, and an overview of existing local healthcare and peer support services. The app can also be used to better understand one's chemsex participation and participate more consciously by using a preparation tool and event-specific checklist, fill in a mood survey, reflect, check personal statistics, and write in a notebook during the event.
Conclusions:
The application of IMP is a time-intensive but thorough way to ensure that each step of developing an intervention is taken. It proved to be a valuable tool in the planning and development of the Budd app. This study provides researchers and practitioners with valuable information that may help them in setting up their own health interventions. Further research should test the effectiveness of the Budd app.
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