Texting for health: study uses phone messages to boost HIV testing in gay men

NCT ID NCT07165496

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether weekly text messages could encourage gay men in Peru to get tested for HIV. Researchers recruited 400 men online and sent them health-promoting texts with support from trained counselors. Participants could also schedule a free HIV test at any time. The goal was to see if this simple, phone-based approach could reach men who might avoid traditional health centers due to stigma.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: text message-based intervention
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could offer a simple, low-cost way to increase HIV testing among men who have sex with men, especially those who avoid clinics due to stigma.
What could go wrong: This is a completed behavioral study, not a treatment trial. The results may not apply to other regions or populations, and text messages alone may not be enough to sustain long-term testing habits.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

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

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Homosexuality

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HIV TESTING

Contacts and locations

Locations

Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia

Lima, Lima Province, Peru

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.