The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded a $1.4 million grant to a University of Albany professor, Melonie Walcott, to research HIV prevention for Black women, the university’s website announced.
Professor Walcott’s study will focus on cisgender women in New York State and will span four years. The project, titled “PrEP-WISE” (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for Women in Charge of Sexual Decision-Making and Engagements), will explore the use of the HIV prevention drug PrEP.
“Black women face unique vulnerabilities to HIV, including systemic inequities and socioeconomic challenges, yet they are often overlooked in HIV prevention efforts,” Walcott said. “This study seeks to address those gaps through culturally relevant and community-centered interventions.”
Walcott is assembling a diverse team of prevention experts , faith-based organizations, and community collaborators to help with the research.
The initial phase will involve interviews with 25 women and 10 healthcare providers to examine access to PrEP, barriers to its use, and potential solutions.