Acceptability of HIV vaccine trials in high-risk heterosexual cohorts in Mombasa, Kenya

Authors:
  • HMHarold L. Martin
    Harold L. Martin
  • JBJob J. Bwayo
    Job J. Bwayo
  • PNPatrick M. Nyange
    Patrick M. Nyange
  • JRJoel P. Rakwar
    Joel P. Rakwar
  • FKFrancis Kashonga
    Francis Kashonga
  • KMKishorchandra Mandaliya
    Kishorchandra Mandaliya
  • JNJeckoniah O. Ndinya-Achola
    Jeckoniah O. Ndinya-Achola
  • JKJoan K. Kreiss
    Joan K. Kreiss
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
To ascertain the level of acceptance of a prophylactic HIV vaccine trial in high-risk HIV-seronegative heterosexual cohorts of men and women in Mombasa, Kenya, and to assess the anticipated effects of participation on risk behavior. Standardized questionnaire administered to a convenience sample of commercial sex workers and trucking company employees enrolled in prospective cohort studies. Ninety-six per cent of respondents believed that HIV was a major problem in Kenya and 86% of men and 94% of women perceived themselves at risk. One hundred per cent of women and 84% of men expressed interest in participation in an HIV vaccine trial, after explanation of the experimental nature of the vaccine, double-blind placebo-controlled design, prolonged follow-up and potential change in serostatus. Seventeen per cent of men and 9% of women anticipated an increase in risk behavior as a result of participation. The majority of individuals in two high-risk cohorts were interested in participating in Phase III efficacy trials of HIV vaccines. A significant minority anticipated an increase in risk behavior, which emphasizes the need for intensive counseling and education throughout a vaccine trial.