Each of our sites has established a Community Advisory Board (CAB) – a group of volunteers that provide community input into study design and local procedures.
CAB members include community members and/or professionals associated with HIV/AlDS prevention and service delivery. Some of our CAB members are trial participants. Many have considerable scientific sophistication or relevant professional training, while others have no medical or scientific background but have a strong interest in HIV prevention.
Together, the CABs fulfill the following roles:
- Assist in the planning, development, and implementation of HVTN research
- Assess community impact and ensure community concerns are considered
- Serve as a voice for the community and study participants
- Serve as a voice for the research, helping to convey information to the community
In addition, each site's CAB has a representative who serves on our Global CAB. The Global CAB has representatives who serve on the HVTN's Scientific Governance Committee. In this way, the HVTN ensures that the voices of the community are heard throughout the organization.
Role of CAB Members
CAB members at each site help members of the general community to understand the science of HIV/AIDS and vaccines, as well as the methods of research and the clinical trials process. These discussions include candid conversations about fears and concerns related to clinical trials and study participation. CAB members can then share this information with the study staff. Building strong relationships and a sense of trust between the HVTN researchers and the community is crucial to the success of the HVTN.