ResearchProjects

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection left untreated has devastating consequences. Yet lifelong adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) represents a substantial challenge for HIV-infected adolescent and young adult populations. To date, there is a paucity of effective, targeted ART adherence interventions for HIV-infected youth. Cognitive behavioral interventions (CBIs) offer great promise to improve adherence among HIV-infected youth, and represent a treatment approach designed to identify and reduce cognitive biases and build effective problem solving skills. However preliminary data are needed to assess feasibility, acceptability and potential impact on adherence behavior. The current study will pilot test a CBI, Engaging and Supporting Youth to Promote Adherence Success (EASYPAS) in a sample of HIV-infected youth ages 16-21 years. The objectives are to test the feasibility and acceptability of the EASYPAS intervention and to obtain initial estimates of the impact of EASYPAS on adherence to ART, beliefs and knowledge about HIV treatment and disease, and appraisal skills of HIV-health related information accessed from internet sources. Findings generated from this study will contribute to an improved understanding of ART self-management among HIV-infected youth.