About this trial
This study is a mixed-methods pilot designed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of a brief digital micro-intervention aimed at reducing stigma-related barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) engagement among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kazakhstan. Participants will complete baseline and post-intervention surveys and receive structured informational content via Telegram or WhatsApp over approximately 2-3 weeks. The intervention focuses on addressing anticipated stigma, confidentiality concerns, and misinformation that may prevent PWUD from seeking PrEP services. No clinical procedures, medication provision, or biological specimen collection are involved.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Self-reported drug use within the past six months
HIV-negative or unknown HIV status (self-reported)
Not currently taking PrEP
Able to provide informed consent
Disqualifiers
Are unable to provide informed consent
Do not have access to a mobile device for digital message delivery
Are currently enrolled in another PrEP behavioral intervention study
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Dgital micro-intervention
Treatment groups
Sponsors and collaborators
Yale University
Lead sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator