Developing “U=U” communication messages targeting HIV discordant couples in Malawi: Establishing evidence on feasibility and acceptability
Abstract
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
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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
Description
Keywords
Research Subject Categories::TECHNOLOGY