EPI-LoVE

Exploring, Predicting, and Intervening on Long-term Viral Suppression Electronically

group of people
By Medical & Imaging Informatics (MII)
1 min read

In response to RFA-AI22-024, the "Exploring, Predicting, and Intervening on Long-term Viral suppression Electronically (EPI-LoVE)" project aims to understand and improve viral suppression outcomes among people living with HIV (PLWH) who struggle with care engagement and consistent viral suppression. This initiative involves a large, diverse, digitally maintained cohort and a cross-cutting, interdisciplinary scientific team.

The major goals are to evaluate longitudinal patterns of care engagement and viral suppression (VS) within the cohort using modeling and advanced epidemiologic methods. Data collection will utilize remote collection of HIV biomarkers (e.g., viral load), online surveys, and frequent app-based “check-ins”.

Key aspects of the project include:

  • Investigating trajectories of HIV care engagement and VS, recognizing the cyclical nature of retention in HIV care.
  • Examining the syndemics underlying these outcomes, such as substance use, mental health challenges, and barriers to HIV care like stigma and rural isolation.
  • Employing multiple recruitment methods, including social media with AI-based models and a partnership with AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF).
  • Utilizing an evidence-based digital platform (HealthMpowerment, HMP) for data collection, real-time analysis, and participant communication, supplemented by semi-annual blood specimens.
  • Developing a sophisticated risk assessment tool to optimize when PLWH are most at risk for Viral Non-Suppression (VNS) and delivering tailored, real-time intervention components based on personalized needs.

The investigative team, spanning UCLA, University of California at Irvine, and University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, brings extensive experience in HIV research, longitudinal cohort studies, and developing digital and AI-based tools. This project capitalizes on productive partnerships and expertise to articulate the drivers of the ongoing HIV epidemic among vulnerable populations and identify effective, scalable digital strategies to address this public health crisis.

Contact PI: Alex Bui; Chelsea Leigh Shover (UCLA)

Funding Source:  NIH NIDA