Effectiveness of Sport-Based HIV Prevention Interventions: A Systematic Review

Date: 1/14/2013
Creator: Lynne Tempest
Source: NCBI/Spring Science+ Business Media, LLC, 2012
Date of Publication: October 25, 2012
Source Type: Literature
Link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23096999

Summary:
Kaufman et al. used strict criteria to select and then review 21 studies in an effort to clarify the effectiveness, weaknesses and gaps in sport-based HIV prevention (SBHP) interventions. Of these, 14 addressed GRS or GRS adopted interventions. Studies were evaluated on the use of quantitative analysis and design quality, including use of biological markers (i.e. blood samples). The average study quality score was 5.1 out of 20, a score of “okay,” with only two of the 21 studies scoring as high as “good.”

While the lack of objective measures, heterogeneity of indicators, and okay design made comprehensive evaluation difficult, the authors’ analysis supports a strong positive effect of SBHP interventions on HIV knowledge, stigma, self-efficacy, communication, and condom use. No overall negative effects were found. SBHP interventions showed no effect on HCT uptake, though there was some evidence of a strong effect. Surprisingly, none of the 21 studies used randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or biological measures. Only one of the studies included long-term follow up beyond six months.

Implications:
Grassroot Soccer is a leader in the field of SBHP research.

Further research on SBHP programs is needed, particularly with long-term follow-up. Future SBHP research should include more objective measurements, such as biological markers, and better scientific design, like the RCT design used by Grassroot Soccer.