The role of network communication in mediating the effect of a social network intervention on HIV seroconversion among people who inject drugs in Ukraine

Background: We examined the role of network communication about HIV-related topics in mediating the efficacy of a social network intervention on HIV seroconversion among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Ukraine, where Eastern Europe's second-largest HIV epidemic is concentrated among PWID. Methods: We used randomized controlled trial data from 1200 HIV-negative PWID (Ukraine; 2010-2012) in an inverse-odds weighted analysis to examine mediation by network communication. Results: Network communication mediated 24 % (95 % CI= 19.22-29.38) of the intervention's effect. Conclusions: Integrating training to support network communication about additional HIV prevention resources could enhance the impact of social network HIV prevention interventions among PWID.