UC San Diego researchers have been working for years to build trust with communities of unhoused people who use drugs in both San Diego and Tijuana. However, since spring, some 10% of their research participants have tested positive for syphilis. This development has raised concerns about the ongoing study's ability to continue due to a drug shortage that is affecting their treatment protocols. The researchers are also facing challenges related to federal constraints, which may limit their access to resources needed to conduct the study effectively. Despite these obstacles, they remain committed to their research and aim to find solutions to ensure the safety of their participants while maintaining their commitment to public health initiatives. [1] [2]
UCSD Researchers Face Challenges in Syphilis Study Amid Drug Shortages and Community Trust Issues
UC San Diego researchers are struggling to continue their syphilis study due to a drug shortage and the need to maintain trust with hard-to-reach communities of unhoused individuals who use drugs.
Story stats
Single source
- Left (1)
- Right (1)
Sources agree
- Researchers have been working on building trust with hard-to-reach communities
- Some participants tested positive for syphilis in the study
Sources differ
- Drug shortages are affecting treatment protocols
- The federal constraints limit access to resources needed for the study