Evaluation of a Computer-Based System Using Cell Phones for HIV People in Peru

Evaluation of a Computer-Based System Using Cell Phones for HIV People in Peru

The investigators propose to develop and evaluate a computer-based intervention using cell phones to enhance adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) and support of HIV transmission risk-reduction among adult HIV-positive patients in Peru.

Adherence to ART is critical for treatment success at the individual level and to avoid the onset of resistant strains of HIV. In Peru, where ART has recently been introduced, adherence to HIV treatment has not yet been addressed properly. Innovative approaches using information technologies such as cell phones are needed to increase adherence to ART for people with HIV/AIDS. The specific aims of the study are to: 1) Conduct formative research to assess culturally-specific behavioral messages to be included in the computer-based system; 2) Develop and test an interactive computer-based system using cell phones to enhance adherence to ART and to deliver HIV transmission risk reduction messages; 3) Evaluate the impact of the system on antiretroviral adherence and sexual risk behaviors.

Inclusion Criteria:

• HIV-positive healthy male or female aged greater than or equal to 18
• Currently on ART
• Patients with a mobile phone for their personal use (not shared)
• Patients who know how to retrieve read text messages on their mobile phone
• Signed and dated written informed consent prior to admission to the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients whose clinical condition might have interfered with the study (e.g., deafness, serious mental illness, mental retardation)
• Patients unable to give their informed consent.