In August, the Ndlovu Research Center kicked off a new study: the DREAM study. DREAM means: Dapivirine Ring Extended Access and Monitoring.
As the name suggests, this is a follow-up study to the ring study that produced such remarkable results earlier this year. This study was able to prove that the use of the Dapivirine ring not only protects against pregnancy, but can also significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection. In the DREAM study, the long-term effect of the ring application is now to be observed and documented. The research team was able to recruit volunteers on the very first day. The willingness to take part in such studies, to use the medication regularly and to report on their experiences is largely due to the trust that the Ndlovu team enjoys among the population. People know that they will be treated with respect here and that they will be treated responsibly.
At this year’s IPM Annual Meeting in Capetown, which took place from September 23 to 27, the team and its achievements were given special recognition. At this conference, special awards were presented to the various research institutions. The Ndlovu team was recognized for its social commitment, which is particularly reflected in the wonderful events that take place regularly, but also in the excellent involvement of the male partners of the ring study participants.
The participants in the ring study were already informed about the DREAM study in July and had the opportunity to discuss their problems and expectations of the follow-up study in a round table. At the kick-off in August, these fears and concerns were then addressed and solutions and advice offered.
The DREAM team is currently touring schools and youth centers to bring the topic of the Ring Study and the follow-up study closer to young women and men. Pregnancy prevention and HIV prevention are topics that require attention from young people. The Ndlovu team has built up a really trusting relationship with the young people in the area.
The DREAM study is established under an African proverb: “If we want to be fast, we go alone. If we want to go far, we go together.” True to this motto, we are keeping our fingers crossed that as many people as possible will join this new study.
