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Be A Hero Vaccine Preparedness Study |
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Readiness of high-risk populations in the HIV Network for Prevention Trials to participate in HIV vaccine efficacy trials in the United States.
Source:
AIDS 1998 May 7;12(7):785-93
Authors:
Koblin BA, Heagerty P, Sheon A, Buchbinder S, Celum C, Douglas JM, Gross M, Marmor
M, Mayer K, Metzger D, Seage G.
Publication Info:
Laboratory of Epidemiology, The New York Blood Center, New York 10021, USA.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE: To determine the willingness of populations at high risk of HIV-1
infection to participate in HIV vaccine efficacy trials, determine factors
influencing decision-making, and evaluate knowledge levels of vaccine trial
concepts. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: HIV-1-negative homosexual men,
male and female injecting drug users and non-injecting women at heterosexual risk
were recruited in eight cities in the United States (n=4892). RESULTS: A substantial
proportion of the study population (77%) would definitely (27%) or probably (50%) be
willing to participate in a randomized vaccine efficacy trial. Increased willingness
was associated with high-risk behaviors, lower education level, being uninsured or
covered by public insurance, and not having been in a previous vaccine preparedness
study. Altruism and a desire for protection from the vaccine were major motivators
for participation. Major concerns included positive HIV-1 antibody test due to
vaccine, safety of the vaccine, and possible problems with insurance or foreign
travel. Baseline knowledge of vaccine trial concepts was low. CONCLUSIONS: It is
likely that high-risk volunteers will be willing to enroll in HIV vaccine efficacy
trials. A variety of participant and community educational strategies are needed to
address participant concerns, and to ensure understanding of key concepts prior to
giving consent for participation.
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