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Browsing HIV/ AIDS by Subject "Research Subject Categories::TECHNOLOGY"

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    Developing “U=U” communication messages targeting HIV discordant couples in Malawi: Establishing evidence on feasibility and acceptability
    (2022-07-20) Kumwenda, Moses
    This research will employ a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to develop and pilot “Undetectable = Untransmittable” in short “U=U” communication materials that could be delivered through ANC clinics in Blantyre, Malawi. The problem There is a gap in evidence on the availability of “U=U” communication materials in Malawi and information on how HIV sero-discordant couples who are expecting a baby can manage their HIV status to minimise the probability of transmitting HIV virus to the partner or the infant. This gap needs to be filled to enable policy makers and implementers in Malawi to make informed choices on how “U=U” communication material can be integrated within the ANC care and HIV programme in Malawi. The Objectives The broad aim is to develop contextually relevant TasP messaging materials that emphasise “U=U” information targeting HIV discordant couples. The specific objectives are to: 1. To explore understanding of TasP and “U=U” among HIV-discordant couples and recipients of ART care. 2. To develop culturally relevant communication materials that optimise user comprehension of “U=U” concepts targeting HIV sero-discordant heterosexual couples . 3. To test the acceptability of the developed “U=U” messages targeting HIV discordant couples. Methodology20-Jul-2022 ACCEPT ‘U=U’ Study - PROTOCOL Version 3.0: 15/04/2021 Page 5 of 36 This is a mixed-methods study that will develop and pilot “U=U” communication materials delivered through ANC clinics of Bangwe, Limbe, Madziabango and Mpemba Health Centres antenatal clinic in Blantyre, Malawi. Focus group discussion and key informant interviews will be done during the formative qualitative investigation. Three stakeholder participatory workshop and cognitive interviews will be used during the “U=U” communication material development stage. A Phase 2 exploratory trial will be done at Bangwe, Limbe, Madziabango and Mpemba Health Centres to test the feasibility and acceptability of the developed “U=U” communication materials. Expected findings and dissemination Expected results from this study include well developed and contextualised “U=U” messages, and outcomes following a pilot test of the application of “U=U” messages within primary health care context in Malawi. The results of this research will be used to guide the formation of national and international policies. Findings will be circulated to the College of Medicine Research and Ethics Committee, the Health Sciences Research Committee and the University Research and Publication Committee. Results will also be distributed to global health policy makers, nationally to the Malawian government, including HTS technical working group. Research findings will be published in journals and presented at conference.s