Digital PrEP Micro-Intervention for PWUD in Kazakhstan

Digital Micro-Interventions to Reduce Stigma-Driven Barriers and Improve PrEP Readiness Among People Who Use Drugs in Kazakhstan

This study is a mixed-methods pilot designed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of a brief digital micro-intervention aimed at reducing stigma-related barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) engagement among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kazakhstan. Participants will complete baseline and post-intervention surveys and receive structured informational content via Telegram or WhatsApp over approximately 2-3 weeks. The intervention focuses on addressing anticipated stigma, confidentiality concerns, and misinformation that may prevent PWUD from seeking PrEP services. No clinical procedures, medication provision, or biological specimen collection are involved.

The proposed study has three aims:

1. To refine a brief, stigma-informed digital micro-intervention designed to address structural and anticipated barriers to PrEP uptake among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Kazakhstan.
2. To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of delivering this intervention through secure digital platforms (e.g., Telegram or WhatsApp).
3. To evaluate preliminary changes in PrEP-related knowledge, perceived stigma- related barriers, and readiness to seek PrEP services following exposure to the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Self-reported drug use within the past six months
• HIV-negative or unknown HIV status (self-reported)
• Not currently taking PrEP
• Able to provide informed consent
• Have access to a personal mobile phone capable of receiving Telegram or WhatsApp messages

Exclusion Criteria:

• Are unable to provide informed consent
• Do not have access to a mobile device for digital message delivery
• Are currently enrolled in another PrEP behavioral intervention study