Use your browser's BACK button to return to your page of origin.
A profile of U.S.-based trials of behavioral and social interventions for HIV risk reduction.
Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome 2002;30(Suppl 1):S30-S50.
Semaan S, Kay L, Strouse D, Sogolow E, Mullen PD, Neumann MS, Flores
SA, Peersman G, Johnson WD, Lipman PD, Eke A, Des Jarlais DC.
Abstract
We describe 99 (experimental and certain quasi-experimental) U.S.-based trials,
reported or published since 1988, of behavioral and social interventions
that measured prespecified behavioral and biologic outcomes and aimed to
reduce risk for HIV infection. Studies identified through June 1998 by the
HIV/AIDS Prevention Research Synthesis project were grouped into 4 risk behavior
areas: drug-related (k [number of studies] = 48), heterosexual youth (k =
24), heterosexual adult (k = 17), and same-sex (k = 10). We compared the
studies in the 4 areas by variables key to the development, evaluation, and
transfer of interventions. Participants comprised injection drug users (43%
of studies), drug users out of treatment (29%), African Americans (18%),
clinic patients (18%), youth in schools (10%), and drug users in treatment
(10%). Most studies were randomized (85%), provided another intervention
to the control or comparison groups (71%), and evaluated behavioral interventions
(92%). On average, interventions were conducted in 5 sessions (total, 8 hours)
during 3 months. The theoretical basis of the intervention was not noted
in 57% of the reports. At least one variable from each of the 3 outcome classifications
was measured in 8% of the studies: behavioral, biologic, and psychosocial.
Distinct profiles exist for the 4 risk areas. Addressing gaps in research
and reporting would be helpful for analytical and program activities. This
sizable portfolio of evaluated interventions contributes to effectiveness
reviews and to considerations of transfer to program practice.