NCT06638892 · Duke University
Using PrEP, Doing It for Ourselves
(UPDOs)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to test a new online program called UPDOs Protective Styles to help people in the southeastern United States learn about and start using PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a medicine that helps prevent HIV. The study focuses on people who may be at higher risk for HIV and have not had equal access to PrEP.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to test a new online program called UPDOs Protective Styles to help people in the southeastern United States learn about and start using PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), a medicine that helps prevent HIV. The study focuses on people who may be at higher risk for HIV and have not had equal access to PrEP. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does UPDOs help more people trust and understand PrEP? Does UPDOs increase the number of people who start and continue using PrEP? Researchers will compare two groups: One group will use UPDOs, which includes six weekly videos, blog discussions, and access to telehealth services through Q Care Plus. The other group will receive standard HIV prevention materials from the CDC. Participants will: Be recruited from 32 beauty salons in areas with high HIV rates. Complete surveys at the start of the study and again at 6, 12, 24, 32, and 52 weeks. Have access to HIV testing and PrEP prescriptions through Q Care Plus. This study will also look at how well the program works in different communities and how easy it is to use and share.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Using PrEP, Doing it for Ourselves (UPDOs)
An e-Health intervention that considers women's lived experiences and uses three components: beauty salons and stylists as opinion leaders (trusted gatekeepers who share health information in the community), theory driven edutainment videos and blogs, and a secure online platform for accessing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
OTHER
Standard of Care
CDC standard of care, e.g., CDC videos and website.
Primary outcome measures
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) Contemplation Ladder total score
Time frame: 12 weeks post-intervention
The PrEP Contemplation Ladder is a 1-item survey designed to measure Motivational PrEP Cascade (MPC) stages of behavior change that represent one's PrEP intentions by a score of 1-10. Scores correspond to MPC stages. Lower numbers indicate PrEP is not being used to prevent HIV and the participant is not really thinking of ever starting to use PrEP. Higher numbers indicate that PrEP is being used daily and the participant is returning for provider checkups and HIV/STI testing every 3 months, as recommended.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- cisgender female
Exclusion criteria
- Under 18 years of age
- Does not identify as Black
- Not a cisgender female
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
Collaborators
National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations