Objective: To test the feasibility of a group intervention for drug-using women at persistent high sexual risk of HIV/STD. Methods: Subjects from a completed HIVNET study (VPSII) who showed continued high levels of sexual risk were recruited in Philadelphia, Providence and New York, to test an intensive group-based behavioral intervention, in a randomized trial. 45-81% of women in the target population reported crack use; 20-22% reported anal sex; 39-77% reported sex trade. The intervention approach has demonstrated behavior change in other populations. Intervention sessions (~2 hrs) aim to: increase knowledge of the anatomy and risk of HIV/STD; increase knowledge and use of a hierarchy of risk-reduction methods, including male and female condoms, diaphragm, cervical cap, spermicide; and improve reproductive health, including enhanced accessing of community health/other services. Protection supplies were provided free. Counseling was conducted by "near-peers" who were provided training and ongoing oversight. The comparison arm received Enhanced HIV testing and counseling, including information on the female and male condoms, and free supplies. Results: Pre-study focus group data on 21 women indicated a high level of interest in this study, including a 82% appearance rate at the group sessions. Feasibility data to be presented on 180 subjects will include: rate of enrollment, participation rate at group sessions; pre-post intervention 'body and methods knowledge' scores at 2 months; and indices of intervention acceptability. Conclusion: Evidence from 180 women in 3 cities will provide data as to whether a full-scale trial of this intervention, with a longer FU interval, is justified.
Learning Objectives: To assess the feasibility of a novel safer-sex intervention directed at drug-using women
Keywords: HIV Interventions, Women and HIV/AIDS
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.