Can a virtual community curb Opioid-Linked HIV and hepatitis c in rural america?

NCT ID NCT05363865

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a digital, community-led program to help people in rural Appalachia and the Midwest reduce their risk of HIV and hepatitis C, often linked to opioid use. Over 500 adults took part, with half currently or previously using illicit substances. The program included online modules on prevention, stigma, and mental health, plus standard health information. Researchers measured whether participants got tested, learned their status, started treatment, and adopted safer behaviors.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Virtual community intervention (behavioral)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could help reduce HIV and hepatitis C infections in rural areas by encouraging testing, treatment, and safer practices.

What could go wrong

This is a completed behavioral study, not a drug trial. Results may not apply to other regions or populations, and self-reported outcomes can be unreliable.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for HIV INFECTIONS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hepatitis C virus infection prevention target HIV infectious disease prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103, United States