# Development and pilot testing of a PrEP communication intervention and integration into existing HIV testing services for female IV drug using clients of a needle exchange

> **NIH NIH R34** · TEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH · 2020 · $214,407

## Abstract

Project Summary
Women who inject drugs (WWIDs) are at significantly higher risk of contracting HIV due to both needle sharing
and sexual behaviors, yet utilize HIV prevention resources less. Analysis of studies testing pre-exposure
prophylaxis (PrEP) has not tested effectiveness in WWIDs and little research exists on their specific barriers to
uptake and adherence. The result is a significant group who is highly vulnerable to HIV infection and its
negative health consequences, yet is less likely to benefit from PrEP. Research is needed to understand how
WWIDs perceive HIV risk and PrEP, and whether a targeted intervention that is embedded in an existing and
trusted syringe exchange program is feasible and holds promise in addressing structural barriers to accessing
PrEP and increasing its use in this at-risk population. To address this gap we will conduct a rigorous formative
evaluation utilizing a unique and innovative marketing evaluation technique. Using perceptual mapping and
vector modeling analysis, we will develop 3-D maps to identify specific message strategies to embed into an
intervention using targeted PrEP counseling, written materials, and text based messaging and pilot tested for
promise of efficacy compared to a general PrEP intervention. The intervention will address psycho-social
barriers to PrEP through perceptual mapping but also societal and structural barriers by embedding it in a
trusted syringe exchange and distributing medication through its medical clinic. Specific aims of the research
are: 1. Assess WWIDs' perceptions of PrEP and potential barriers to use. To accomplish this we will conduct
focus groups (n=30) and interviews with syringe exchange staff (n=10) and develop a perceptual mapping
survey. 2. Develop a targeted communication intervention based on vector modeling findings, including print
materials, PrEP counseling, and text messages, and assess feasibility and acceptability. To accomplish this we
will conduct perceptual mapping surveys with HIV- WWIDs (n=100), do vector modeling analysis and create
sample messages, concept test messages with WWIDs and staff (n=20), create intervention materials and
conduct usability testing (n=20). 3. Pilot test the intervention by integrating into a syringe exchange to assess
promise of efficacy. To accomplish this we will conduct a randomized pilot (n=50) and test an “enhanced”
intervention using targeted messages with a “basic” intervention that provides general PrEP counseling. To
assess promise of efficacy we will compare PrEP adherence (blood test; self report) and differences in PrEP
attitudes, self-efficacy, and decisional conflict. If successful, the proposed pilot study will significantly contribute
to HIV prevention by examining the unique perceptions of PrEP in WWIDs and the acceptability, feasibility, and
potential impact of using health communication strategies in adjunct with existing services in a social service
agency. This pilot will provide crucial informatio...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9848524
- **Project number:** 5R34DA046305-03
- **Recipient organization:** TEMPLE UNIV OF THE COMMONWEALTH
- **Principal Investigator:** Sarah B Bass
- **Activity code:** R34 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $214,407
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-03-15 → 2022-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9848524

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9848524, Development and pilot testing of a PrEP communication intervention and integration into existing HIV testing services for female IV drug using clients of a needle exchange (5R34DA046305-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9848524. Licensed CC0.

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