Text Message Education for Heart Disease in HIV/AIDS
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether educational text messages (Digital Educational Messaging) can help people with HIV reduce their risk of heart disease. Participants in the experimental group will receive messages on their phones 3-5 times a week for up to six months, offering tips on heart health and information about HIV. Individuals who are HIV positive, over 40, and own a smartphone might be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance heart health for people living with HIV.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that Digital Educational Messaging is safe for persons living with HIV?
Research has shown that receiving educational text messages, like those used in this study, is generally safe. These messages aim to educate about the link between HIV and heart disease and how to reduce heart disease risk. No reports of harm have resulted from receiving these educational texts. Since this study involves only receiving information through texts, there are no physical risks. It focuses on helping people learn more about their health in a safe and simple way.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using digital educational messaging for heart disease prevention in people with HIV/AIDS because it offers a unique, non-invasive approach to managing risk. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve medications or lifestyle changes guided by healthcare providers, this method delivers important health information directly to patients through text messages. This can empower individuals by providing them with knowledge about HIV and heart disease risk, as well as practical tips to reduce that risk, all in a convenient and accessible format. The hope is that by reaching patients where they are—on their mobile devices—this approach can increase awareness and encourage proactive health management in an easy and engaging way.
What evidence suggests that digital educational messaging is effective for reducing cardiovascular risk in persons living with HIV?
Research has shown that text messaging can greatly improve heart health for people with HIV. Studies have found that text messages help people take their medications on time and lower their blood pressure, both crucial for reducing heart disease risk. Text messages have also successfully encouraged people to quit smoking, eat better, and exercise more. These lifestyle changes can significantly reduce heart disease risk. In this trial, participants in the intervention arm will receive regular, educational text messages about HIV and heart disease risk, potentially offering an easy and effective way to manage their heart health.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Megan McLaughlin, MD, MPH
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults over 40 years old who are living with HIV but do not have existing cardiovascular disease. Participants must own a smartphone and be willing to provide informed consent. Pregnant individuals cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive educational text messages about HIV and heart disease risk 3-5 times per week for up to 6 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for cardiovascular risk factors and health outcomes after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Digital Educational Messaging
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Collaborator