Co-creation using crowdsourcing to promote PrEP adherence in China: study protocol for a stepped-wedge randomized...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• HIV Prevention
• Community-Based Interventions

Background:

• Key populations in China exhibit low pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and adherence despite high HIV incidence.
• Novel interventions are crucial to enhance PrEP adherence within these vulnerable groups.
• Co-creation methods offer a promising approach to develop community-centered public health solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate co-created interventions aimed at improving PrEP adherence among key populations in China.
• To assess the efficacy of these interventions using a stepped-wedge randomized controlled trial.
• To address barriers in PrEP intervention development through community engagement and social media integration.

Main Methods:

• A four-phased, closed cohort stepped-wedge randomized controlled trial involving 700 participants initiating PrEP.
• Intervention clusters will receive co-created materials alongside standard care, while control clusters receive standard care.
• Primary outcomes include PrEP adherence and retention, analyzed using generalized linear mixed models.

Main Results:

• (Study results are pending as this is a protocol description.)
• The study hypothesizes that co-created interventions will significantly improve PrEP adherence.
• Online surveys and a WeChat mini-app will monitor adherence and provide health education.

Conclusions:

• The study addresses critical barriers to PrEP adherence in China by integrating community input and leveraging digital platforms.
• Findings may inform policy and practice for community-based organizations and healthcare systems.
• Effective PrEP adherence strategies are vital for HIV prevention among key populations.