The STAR Program’s research has primarily focused on HIV since its inception in 1990. Past research includes pharmaceutical trials of antiretroviral medications and interventions to promote prevention with positives and retain patients in care. The following are active research projects:
The MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) merges decades of research on HIV among men (MACS) and women (WIHS) to examine chronic conditions like heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders. Led by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, it includes the STAR Program’s Brooklyn site, which has contributed to over 900 publications on HIV’s impact. With a special focus on at-risk Black and Hispanic communities, recruitment under a common protocol began in 2021.
Several NIH-funded R01 studies aim to improve HIV viral suppression among sexual minority men (SMM) and other vulnerable groups through eHealth and mHealth interventions. The NIDA-funded “START” trial tests a national mHealth platform integrating mindfulness and HIV medication adherence support for stimulant-using men. The “UrHeart” sub-study examines home urine collection for detecting fentanyl-adulterated stimulants and cardiac injury markers. “THRIVE 3,” supported by NINR, addresses health disparities among rural older adults with HIV through peer support and case management. Finally, “UniquelyU,” funded by NIAID, follows newly diagnosed SMM to identify barriers to viral suppression and inform TasP/U=U scale-up.
José E. Diaz, PhD, alongside collaborator Hong Van Tieu from the New York Blood Center, investigates how geographic mobility impacts HIV prevention and treatment among immigrant and migrant Latino gay and bisexual men. Using surveys, in-depth interviews, and geographic mobility mapping, the study examines how mobility—for work, visiting family, or sexual partnering—affects outcomes like PrEP uptake, adherence, and viral suppression. Findings could guide tailored interventions to improve care for Latino GBMSM facing travel-related barriers and inform policies that address the unique challenges of immigrant and migrant communities.
