Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: Sep 22, 2023
Date Accepted: Dec 21, 2023
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A protocol for a randomized controlled trial comparing repeated (annual) couples HIV counseling and testing to individual HIV testing and counseling among male couples at high risk of HIV infection
ABSTRACT
Couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC) is now a standard of care prevention strategy recommended by CDC for sexual minority men (SMM) in relationships. Despite standard recommendations that couples complete CHTC every 6 to 12 months, no study has empirically evaluated the effects associated with CHTC retesting. Understanding the benefits associated with continued dyadic engagement in the HIV prevention continuum through routine CHTC retesting is of particular importance for emerging adult SMM in relationships who use drugs. Eligible couples for this trial must already be enrolled in the 4Us trial where they completed a CHTC session after their baseline survey. Those who complete the 4Us 12-month follow-up and remain in a relationship with the partner they participated in 4Us with, offered the opportunity to participate in this trial. Those consenting are randomized to either CHTC retesting or individual HIV testing. Follow-up assessments are conducted 3 and 6-months post-randomization to evaluate effects of repeat CHTC on two primary outcomes: 1) number of condomless anal sex acts (CAS) with a casual partner in the absence of PrEP and 2) CAS with a sero-discordant main partner who is not virally suppressed or concurrent CAS between main and casual partners in the absence of PrEP. Findings from this study will contribute to knowledge about the benefits associated with regular (repeated) CHTC testing versus routine individual HIV testing for SMM in relationships. The results of this trial will inform guidance CHTC retesting guidance.
Citation
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Copyright
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