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By Quianta L. Moore, Mary E. Paul, Amy L. McGuire and Mary A. Majumder

Abstract

Whether adolescents can participate in clinical trials of pharmacologic therapies for HIV prevention, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, without parental permission hinges on state minor consent laws.

Very few of these laws explicitly authorize adolescents to consent to preventive services for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Unclear state laws may lead to research cessation.

We have summarized legal, ethical, and policy considerations related to adolescents’ participation in HIV and sexually transmitted infection prevention research in the United States, and we have explored strategies for facilitating adolescents’ access.

Published in American Journal of Public Health.