At Queen Mary University of London, the SHARE Collaborative is pioneering a transformative approach in HIV research by prioritizing inclusivity and community engagement. Their efforts are aimed at addressing the persistent inequities faced by people living with HIV, particularly in the realm of clinical trials and treatment accessibility.
A significant barrier in HIV research has been the historical underrepresentation of diverse populations in clinical trials. This gap often leads to treatments that do not fully meet the needs of all communities affected by HIV. The researchers at SHARE are tackling this issue head-on by developing clinical trial designs and protocols that reflect the diversity of the populations they serve. One such initiative is the ILANA (Implementing Long-Acting Novel Antiretrovirals) study, which focuses on the equitable implementation of the first long-acting injectable treatment for HIV.
Breaking Barriers with Inclusive Design
Determined to ensure equitable access to this groundbreaking treatment, the ILANA study was meticulously designed to be both antiracist and antiageist. The results of this approach have been groundbreaking:
- 53% female participants
- 70% racially minoritised participants
- 40% participants aged 50 or older
These figures not only surpassed the trial’s mandatory recruitment targets but also established ILANA as a benchmark for inclusive research practices. The World Health Organization has recognized the trial as a good practice case study, underscoring that equitable recruitment is both achievable and essential in advancing HIV research.
Expanding Inclusive Practices to HIV Prevention
Building on the success of the ILANA study, the SHARE team is applying their inclusive research methodology to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). By designing trials and studies that prioritize inclusivity, they aim to improve equitable access to PrEP, a critical tool in HIV prevention.
This initiative is particularly timely as global health organizations emphasize the importance of inclusive healthcare practices. The SHARE Collaborative’s approach aligns with these broader efforts to ensure that all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or age, have access to life-saving treatments and preventive measures.
Commitment to Transformative Change
On World AIDS Day, the SHARE team reaffirmed their commitment to advancing research that actively counters the disruptions and inequities shaping the lives of people living with HIV. By embedding inclusivity in study design, amplifying community voices, and challenging structural barriers, they aim to transform the AIDS response for those who need it most.
Moreover, SHARE has developed resources to assist other researchers in adopting their inclusive research approach. These resources are freely available on their website, offering guidance and tools to promote equity in clinical research.
The SHARE Collaborative’s work represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of equitable healthcare. By demonstrating what is possible when inclusivity is prioritized from the outset, they are setting a new standard for HIV research and beyond. As the global community continues to grapple with health disparities, the lessons learned from SHARE’s initiatives offer a roadmap for creating more inclusive and effective healthcare systems.
