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Ethical Perspectives in Using Technology-Enabled Research for Key HIV Populations in Rights-Constrained Settings

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

People who use illicit drug substances (e.g., heroin) and sex workers are vulnerable to acquiring HIV. Due to the criminalization of illicit drug substances and sex work in many countries, these populations often reside in rights-constrained settings where their well-being, freedom, and access to HIV prevention and care services may be compromised due to legal prosecutions and societal stigma.

Recent Findings

This study conducted a literature review on papers that evaluated a combination of the following three components: ethics, technology-based research, and populations who use drug substances and/or sex workers. We explored research on these ethical perspectives from both key populations and researchers.

Summary

Findings revealed potential risks in data security and possible harmful implications of compromised data within these rights-constrained settings. Best practices were explored within the literature to identify potential methods for addressing these ethical concerns and improving HIV prevention and care.

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Data Availability

No primary data were collected for this study.

References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: •• Of major importance

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  1. Department of Emergency Medicine and Informatics, University of California, 333 W. City Blvd., Suite 640, IrvineIrvine, CA, 92868, USA

    Lidia Flores & Sean D. Young

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Flores, L., Young, S.D. Ethical Perspectives in Using Technology-Enabled Research for Key HIV Populations in Rights-Constrained Settings. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 20, 148–159 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-023-00654-0

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