P02.02
Background: Rectal microbicides (RMs) are new products being developed to prevent HIV transmission through receptive anal intercourse. Given that most people are unfamiliar with RMs, educational materials that are accessible, understandable and appealing to multiple communities are essential. To address this need, the Population Council, International Rectal Microbicide Advocates (IRMA) and the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN) developed a 14-minute video on RMs, “The Rectal Revolution is Here: an Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials,” in conjunction with the launch of an international Phase II RM clinical trial.
Methods: The video, which combines animation and documentary-style footage, was developed with the guidance of a Video Advisory Committee (VAC), comprised of 12 individuals from international trial sites, non-affiliated researchers, and IRMA advocates. The VAC provided input and expertise on all aspects of the video, from script content to translations to final edit. An early cut of the video was viewed by over 80 participants at Microbicides 2012 who gave feedback via a survey, and was tested in 13 focus group discussions at five sites in English, Spanish, and Thai among more than 100 gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender women.
Results: Feedback from the surveys and focus groups resulted in several significant changes to clarify key messages, including the addition of information about HIV testing, the cutting of a main character as well as some interview footage, and a change in music. The final video has been made available to trial sites and advocates, and online via YouTube.
Conclusions: The extensive year-long process with multiple inputs used to develop the video resulted in concrete suggestions to improve it, and to make it relevant and accessible for intended audiences. By incorporating this vital feedback, video producers were able to develop a culturally competent educational video that was inclusive and responsive, and is being used extensively.
