Research Priorities for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome in Iran: A Mixed-Methods...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Medical Research

Background:

• Iran faces a concentrated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic, with 39 million affected globally in 2022.
• Existing research gaps necessitate targeted identification and prioritization of critical HIV/AIDS research areas within the Iranian context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and prioritize critical HIV/AIDS research areas in Iran.
• To address specific gaps in the current HIV research landscape in Iran.

Main Methods:

• A three-phase approach was used, including developing an HIV research matrix, a systematic review (PRISMA protocol), and a three-round Delphi method.
• Systematic review of 6,310 sources identified 745 relevant documents for analysis.
• Expert feedback was collected through the Delphi method to prioritize research areas based on importance and feasibility.

Main Results:

• Key research domains identified were prevention, diagnosis, care and treatment, epidemiology, and co-infections.
• Co-infections were the focus of 23% of studies, while ethical issues comprised only 0.04%; 54% of studies were of low quality.
• Laboratory research and co-infections were ranked highest priorities, with molecular epidemiology and stigma/discrimination interventions also highlighted. Research on stigma-related interventions showed a significant gap.

Conclusions:

• 11 main and 60 sub-areas were identified as priorities for HIV/AIDS research in Iran, requiring strategic funding and planning.
• Ethical considerations and laboratory improvements are crucial for enhancing public health outcomes.
• Addressing emerging challenges in the HIV epidemic necessitates focused research on identified priority areas.