ATN 140 - A Novel Mobile App to Support Linkage to HIV/STI Testing and PrEP for Young Men who have Sex with Men

The LYNX protocol involved qualitative formative work (aim 1), an open technical pilot (aim 2) to refine the LYNX app, and a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy (aim 3) of the LYNX app to increase HIV/STI testing and PrEP uptake among HIV-uninfected young sexual minority men (SMM) aged 15-24. Participants were enrolled at two sites in Chicago, IL and Tampa, FL. Aim 1 was conducted over a 6-month period and included 40 participants; data included focus groups and in-depth interviews. Aim 2 was conducted over a 4 month period and included 15 participants; data included an online exit interview, a computer-assisted self-interview (CASI), and app analytics. Aim 3 was conducted over a 9--month period, and included 60 participants randomized 2:1 to either receive LYNX or standard of care; data included CASI, app analytics, case-report form (CRF) data on study implementation, and in-depth interviews in the LYNX arm. In early testing, participants found most parts of the LYNX app easy to use. Participants found the app most useful in helping them track their sexual partners and motivating them to get tested for HIV and STIs. In the larger pilot study, the app was highly acceptable, with almost all participants using the app at least once -- on average, participants used the app 15 times during the 6 month period. Rates of HIV testing were higher in the group receiving the LYNX app compared with a group receiving usual care. Rates of linkage to PrEP services were similar between the groups.