HIV Res Clin Pract. 2025 Dec;26(1):2455917. doi: 10.1080/25787489.2025.2455917. Epub 2025 Jan 25.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: HIV remains a major challenge in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, particularly for young women who face disproportionate risks and barriers to prevention and treatment. Most HIV cure trials, however, occur in high-income countries.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the perspectives of young women diagnosed with acute HIV in a longitudinal study, focusing on their perceptions on ATI-inclusive HIV cure trials and the barriers and facilitators to participation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between October 2022 and February 2024, we conducted closed-ended surveys and in-depth interviews with 20 women aged 19-33 living with HIV, who were willing but ineligible or unable to participate in an HIV cure trial.
RESULTS: Many participants reported mental health challenges, including major depression (40%), moderate to severe anxiety (35%), and low self-esteem (35%). While women diagnosed during acute HIV supported pausing antiretroviral treatment (ART) during analytical treatment interruption (ATI) to advance HIV cure research, concerns about health risks and HIV-related stigma were significant barriers to enrollment. Trust in the research team and close monitoring were seen as positive factors, while fears around sharing of HIV/ATI status and transmission to sex partners complicated decision-making. Participants expressed a need for psychological counseling and access to community resources to manage ATI-related stressors.
CONCLUSIONS: Understanding women’s perspectives on HIV cure research, especially ATI trials, is vital. Building trust and addressing psychosocial challenges through a healing-centered approach can facilitate trial participation. Socio-behavioral research before and during HIV cure trials will be essential to inform participant-centered protocol design.
PMID:39862155 | DOI:10.1080/25787489.2025.2455917
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