The Stopping the Spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome through Relationship Engagement Study: An Opportunity for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention in African American Adolescents with HIV-Positive Mothers

Abstract

In 2018 Blacks/African Americans made up 13% of the female population but accounted for 58% of diagnoses of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among females.1 Studies show that women have always been underrepresented in HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) studies, however, the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has further exacerbated the existing barriers in HIV research.2 Additionally, with social distancing guidelines in place due to COVID-19, research that requires partnership development with gatekeepers and community-based organizations may not effectively transition to virtual or other remote settings.2 Black women’s underrepresentation in HIV research is in part due to inadequate recruitment strategies.3 While we use technology to try to compensate for the lack of human connection in research due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has made recruitment more difficult.