HIV Incidence and Participation Retention in Pune, India

The purpose of this study is to ensure that the HIV Prevention Trials Unit (HPTU) in Pune will be able to enroll and retain participants for 2 upcoming HPTN clinical trials. Specifically, this study seeks to find the rate of HIV infection and follow-up among a group of high-risk, HIV-negative non-sexworker women in Pune, as well as among HIV-discordant couples (couples where 1 partner is HIV-infected and the other is not). Phase III studies of HIV prevention require the participation of a large number of people at high risk for HIV infection. It is also important that these participants continue and follow through with the study through the extended period of follow-up. A measurement of HIV incidence and retention rate among high-risk women and HIV-discordant couples is necessary for upcoming HPTN trials. Taken together with the need for estimates of HIV incidence and the need for data to ensure high retention rates, this protocol is important for the HPTN generally and for HPTU in Pune in particular.