Current trends in Internet- and cell phone-based HIV prevention and intervention programs

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Informatics
• Digital Health

Background:

• The increasing accessibility of the Internet and mobile phones has spurred interest in their use for health interventions.
• Technology-based health programs, particularly for HIV prevention and intervention, are an emerging area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify recent advancements in technology-based HIV prevention and intervention research.
• To assess the current state and future potential of digital tools in HIV/AIDS initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A literature search was conducted in Spring 2007 to identify relevant studies.
• Analysis focused on recently published evaluations and funded/developing technology-based HIV programs.

Main Results:

• Few articles evaluating technology-based HIV programs were published in the preceding year.
• Many new programs are being funded, developed, or are awaiting evaluation.
• Current findings indicate that the Internet and mobile phones are viable for delivering HIV prevention and intervention to certain groups.

Conclusions:

• Technology-based approaches are feasible for HIV prevention and intervention in specific populations.
• Future research should explore programs for diverse populations (adolescents, elderly), integrate interdisciplinary advances, investigate text messaging for behavior change, and adapt Internet programs for developing countries.