mHealth (www.mobih.org) and other mobile technology-based organizations are providing a model for cost-effective, expanded uses of mobile devices and social media to increase access to critical information and prevention services, assist in data collection, and patient monitoring. mHealth and similar organizations have implemented programs that have been evaluated in developing nations and provide a template of what can be used here in the U.S.

Once substantial clinical evidence demonstrating the effectiveness in reducing HIV transmissions is produced, microbicide gels could not only empower the women that use them, in addition to providing a degree of protection not yet granted by barrier methods. We can expect to see multi-pronged social media campaigns similar to those for the “The Pill” and Emergency Contraception geared toward young women. We’ll wait in anticipation until the evidence is in! Thanks for the question!