The Use of Cell Phone Support for Non-adherent HIV-Infected Youth and Young Adults: An Initial Randomized and Controlled Intervention Trial

Abstract

This randomized behavioral trial examined whether youth living with HIV (YLH) receiving cell-phone support with study funded phone plans, demonstrated improved adherence and viral control during the 24week intervention and 24weeks post-intervention compared to controls. Monday through Friday phone calls confirmed medications were taken, provided problem-solving support, and referred to services to address adherence barriers. Of 37 participants (ages 15-24), 62% were male and 70% were African American. Self-reported adherence was significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control at 24 and 48weeks for the past month (P=0.007) and log 10 HIV VL was significantly lower at both 24weeks (2.82 versus 4.52 P=0.002) and 48weeks (3.23 versus 4.23 P=0.043). Adherence and viral load showed medium to large effect sizes across the 48week study. This is the first study to demonstrate sustained clinically significant reductions in HIV VL using youth friendly technology.