Text Messaging Program to Prevent HIV in Cisgender Male Adolescents and Young Adults Aged 13 to 22 Across the US

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a text messaging-based HIV prevention program called Sexual Health Advocacy for Guys SHAG designed for cisgender sexual minority boys and men aged 13 to 22 across the United States. This study compares SHAG to a control group receiving messages about healthy lifestyle topics. The program aims to reduce HIV incidence and examines its impact on STI testing and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis PrEP. Participants in the intervention group receive approximately 9 weeks of daily text messages focusing on healthy sexuality and ways to reduce HIV risk, followed by a 3-month quiet period and a week of review messages. The control group receives a similar schedule of daily text messages about healthy lifestyle topics such as self-esteem and physical exercise, with the same quiet period and review week. The messages are based on a behavioral model of preventive behavior. During the study, participants are recruited and enrolled primarily online and digitally. Assessments include measuring HIV incidence immediately after the intervention and at 12 months post-intervention, as well as self-reported HIV incidence at several points up to 12 months. Researchers also track the proportion of participants who test for STIs and who have used PrEP or post-exposure prophylaxis PEP. Participants must have a cell phone with unlimited texting and internet access to complete surveys. The study aims to complete by December 2027.

Sexual Health Advocacy for Guys - a Text Messaging-based HIV Prevention Program for Guys Who Are Into Guys