NCT05678556 · Northwestern University
Effectiveness of Relationship Education for Reducing HIV Incidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men
(all2GETHER)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to upgrade an existing relationship education and HIV prevention program. This program is designed for gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender and non-binary people who partner with cisgender men. This means the program is designed for gay, bisexual and queer men, including both cisgender and transgender men.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to upgrade an existing relationship education and HIV prevention program. This program is designed for gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender and non-binary people who partner with cisgender men. This means the program is designed for gay, bisexual and queer men, including both cisgender and transgender men. It is also designed for transgender and non-binary people who partner with cisgender men, including both transfeminine and transmasculine people. The investigators aim to test the effectiveness of this updated program among couples and single people. Participants will complete online surveys and get tested for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Participants will be tested for urethral and rectal Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. Participants will also complete at-home point-of-care HIV testing, with confirmatory testing for preliminary positive results. They will also participate in our program on relationship education and HIV prevention. Study staff will follow up with participants for up to 2 years. All participants will be randomized into one of two different conditions: the all2GETHER program or no program. "Randomized" means that it is completely up to chance which condition participants will be put into. Participants have a 50% chance of being assigned to either condition, similar to a coin toss. Participants should expect that they will be in this research study for 2 years. Participation in this study will be done remotely - participants will never need to come into a research lab.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
all2GETHER
all2GETHER is an HIV prevention and relationship education program designed for young MSM and other individuals who have sex, date, and are in relationships with MSM. all2GEHTER consists of 3 online didactic skills modules that include videos, activities, and other self-paced education components and 2 videoconference-based skills coaching sessions The 3 online modules focus on developmental skills related to sexual health and relationship functioning, including HIV and STI prevention in couples, effective communication skills, coping skills for LGBTQ and relationship stress, problem-solving and acceptance. Individualized couple sessions led by facilitators focus on implementation of skills specific to the needs of each couple.
Primary outcome measures
HIV infection
Time frame: 24-months
Incidence of HIV confirmed via lab processed but self-administered collection
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 men, transgender women and men, non-binary individuals
- Had condomless anal sex with 2 or more serodiscordant/unknown-status cisgender male partners in the last 6 months
- Aged 16-34 years
- Lab-test confirmed HIV-negative
- Read and speak English at 8th grade level or better
- Internet access
- Agree to audio recording of intervention sessions
- Provides address to receive HIV/STI test supplies
- For dyads, both partners may enroll if they meet the above criteria- partners who are aged 35+ and/or HIV-positive may enroll in a more limited capacity
Exclusion criteria
- -Participants assigned female at birth who identify as women are not eligible
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
University of Cincinnati, Medical University of South Carolina, Drexel University
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 May 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations