Adolescent Male Couples-Based HIV Testing Intervention (We Test): Protocol for a Type 1, Hybrid...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• HIV Prevention

Background:

• Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) are at high risk for HIV, particularly when partnered.
• Partnered YMSM often underestimate their HIV risk and test less frequently than single YMSM.
• Existing couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC) may need adaptation for YMSM due to their developmental stage and relationship dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the additive benefit of tailored communication skills interventions for partnered YMSM undergoing CHTC.
• To test prevention packages including assertive communication training and motivational interviewing focused on identification and development (MI-AID).
• To adapt and implement CHTC for YMSM within the Adolescent Medicine Trials Network (ATN) Scale It Up program.

Main Methods:

• A 3-phase comparative effectiveness trial.
• Phase 1: Qualitative data collection from partnered YMSM and ATN staff for intervention development.
• Phase 2: Pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing intervention components.
• Phase 3: Larger RCT comparing the most effective intervention package to CHTC as usual, focusing on implementation and sustainment.

Main Results:

• Phase 1 involves qualitative interviews (n=24 YMSM, n=20 staff).
• Phase 2 pilot RCT (n=36 couples) includes baseline, 1- and 3-month follow-ups with surveys and HIV/STI testing.
• Phase 3 larger RCT (n=144 couples) includes 1, 3, 6, and 9-month follow-ups.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to assess an enhanced CHTC intervention specifically designed for partnered YMSM.
• The intervention combines MI-AID and video-based assertive communication training to address YMSM's unique developmental needs.
• Findings will inform the optimal adjunctive components for CHTC in this population.