25/03/2024
The internet can be a dreadful wild west style place of hatred and ignorance. However, a new study quoted by Live Science web portal demonstrates that building safe community spaces for LGBTQIA+ and African-American youth via social media and texting can help improve health outcomes in the battle against HIV. A few simple strategies, including telehealth coaching appointments and automated text messages, can dramatically boost uptake of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, known as PrEP, in young people, a new study finds. The nearly 900 young people in the trial were split into four groups, with one group getting only text messages, two receiving texts and one additional intervention each, and a final group getting a trio of interventions. This last group — who received text messages, coaching and access to an online support group of peers — doubled their use of PrEP, from 10% to 20%. If mirrored nationally, this rate would bring young people's PrEP coverage more in line with that of U.S. adults indicated for the medications. The participants were recruited through adolescent health clinics and community organizations for vulnerable youth, such as those in the LGBT community, those with housing insecurity and those who were previously incarcerated. They also recruited through social venues, like clubs; and via apps, like Grindr. Black and African American people made up about 40% of the study participants, followed by Latinx and Hispanic people (29%), white people (21%), and Asian and Pacific Islander people (6%). The texts relayed information or motivational messages on physical health, substance use, mental health and wellness. The researchers also sent text medication reminders, if applicable. For example, one text might have read, "Friends can be good medicine. If you need to talk, give a friend a call" and another, "Going out of town? Don’t forget to pack your meds." Others provided links to explore health insurance options or to learn about people's personal experiences with PrEP. Nicoletta Lanese, summarising the study for Live Science noted that in the future even AI Chatbots could help minority youth in dealing with health challenges and bolstering the self esteem and mental health. The research was conducted by a team led by Dallas Swendeman for the UCLA Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services.
