Strengthening implementation science research to improve adolescent and young adult HIV-prevention and care in sub-Saharan Africa: PATC3H-IN
An article in BMC Public Health, published November 26, 2025
Authors: Geri R Donenberg, Ucheoma Nwaozuru, Sylvia Adebajo, Joseph D Tucker, Juliet Iwelunmor, Lisa M Kuhns, Brenda Gati Mirembe, Lisa Hightow-Weidman, Brian Zanoni, Tapiwa A Tembo, Maria Felix Lupogo, Franklin Yates
This study highlights the challenges in ensuring adolescents and young adults (AYA) in sub-Saharan Africa effectively access and benefit from evidence-based HIV prevention and care. The Prevention and Treatment through a Comprehensive Care Continuum for HIV-affected Adolescents in Resource-Constrained Settings Implementation Science Network (PATC3H-IN) aims to improve how these services are delivered and sustained. PATC3H-IN includes research sites in Nigeria, Uganda, Malawi, South Africa, Zambia, and Tanzania, focusing on adolescents and specific groups such as those living with HIV, sexual and gender minorities, and adolescent girls.
The study will use various implementation science frameworks to guide its efforts, particularly the RE-AIM framework. This involves evaluating factors like reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of interventions. A total of 54 unique strategies will be employed, with a strong emphasis on community engagement. The research will harmonize data collection across different sites to facilitate comprehensive analysis. The ultimate goal is to enhance HIV prevention and care strategies for AYA in low-resource settings, providing valuable insights to help address the significant HIV burden in sub-Saharan Africa. This endeavor highlights the crucial role of implementation science in improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to care for young people in these regions.